The Measure of Life: Happiness by Courtney

The Measure of Life: Happiness by Courtney - February 2015 Scholarship Essay

In high school, I was never an avid reader outside of the assigned readings and textbook chapters. Similar to most teenagers in this day and age, my time was limited between balancing school, homework, jobs, clubs, sports, and a social life. Therefore, I never had the opportunity to read for pleasure as much as I would have liked. Although one book I received for a graduation gift called, A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen transformed my life. During the summer before college, I read the short book and it immediately changed my perspective and outlook in life. I learned that life is not judged by material objects, success and failures, but instead on the level of one’s happiness.

“If your success is not on your own terms, if it looks good to the world but does not feel good in your heart, it is not success at all.” – Anna Quidlen

As a high school student you begin to explore the idea of careers, and what you may explore behind the brick walls of high school. Often, students will take several skills and personality tests to find a potential niche of society that they may fit well in. Many times parents will put pressure on their children to pursue a certain degree or lifestyle. However, in the end it is only the individual, the student, who can decide what is best for their future career and journey through life. If students do not follow their passions, they will not find the true success in life, happiness.

“The thing that is really hard, and really amazing, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself.” – Anna Quidlen

In a society that sees perfection as the highest level of achievement, it is not doubt people strive for it in their body image, grades, social life, and many other aspects of life. Sadly, I am no different. Like many, I struggle with this ideology that has been imbedded inside me since a child. However, perfection is not what defines one person from another; the failures are what shape us into unique human beings. Speaking from experience, when perfection no longer becomes the focal point in life, it is remarkable how many new traits, skills, and values you learn about yourself. Instead of being the perfectionist, one becomes an individual complete with happiness.

I believe A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen is an important book for high school students to read for multiple reasons. First of all, the length of the book is short, thus requiring high school students to only find a small amount of time to devote to reading it. Secondly, it is impactful and simple. The life lessons addressed are very applicable to high school students that are beginning to make major life decisions. The life lessons mentioned are only a few of the many empowering teachings Quindlen addresses. Last but certainly not least, this book provides a student with a new outlook and perspective. With the help this book, high school students will be able to make decisions that will lead them towards to the most essential component in life, happiness.