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The Art of the Interesting

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The Art of the Interesting

What We Miss in Our Pursuit of the Good Life and How to Cultivate It

Balance,

15 min read
8 take-aways
Audio & text

What's inside?

Learn how to turn everyday life into an interesting adventure with curiosity and connection.

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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Eye Opening
  • Well Structured

Recommendation

Most people agree that a “Good Life” is full of meaning and happiness. Yet many people find happiness and meaning within their lives and still feel like something is missing. According to philosophy professor Lorraine Besser, that missing piece is the “interesting.” Through a blend of scientific research, philosophical theories, and relatable stories, Besser shows how embracing curiosity and fresh perspectives can turn even the most mundane moments into vibrant experiences. Her practical advice encourages readers to seek the unexpected and cultivate a richer life.

Summary

Pursuing meaning and happiness alone can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and emptiness.

To live your best possible life, you must rethink the traditional definition of the “Good Life” as one centered solely on pursuing happiness and meaning. This framing suggests that enjoyment and a sense of purpose are all you need for a great life. Yet experience shows this is not the case.

In an episode of the TV show Somebody Somewhere, the two characters Sam and Joel highlight this struggle as they talk about their weekend plans: Sam chases pleasure by spending her time drinking wine, and Joel seeks fulfillment through volunteer work, yet both convey a deep sense of dissatisfaction with their lives. Believing that by finding your “one true purpose” or doing something that gives you pleasure, you will feel fully satisfied often leads to frustration. It’s hard to predict how achieving a goal will make you feel, and it’s hard to experience any kind of sustained pleasure. Without the richness of new, stimulating experiences, life can feel incomplete, regardless of how much pleasure or meaning you try to pack in.

About the Author

Lorraine Besser is an author and professor of philosophy at Middlebury College.

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