Great minds, think alike. In the „propositions on happiness“, the author Alain mentions as inspiration for his thought process: Aristotle (XLVII) via Marc Aurel (LXIII) to George Sand (LXVI). This is an interesting perspective and abbreviation of the history of ideas. The impact of stoicism in his thinking of happiness becomes evident. Although originally he was described by another person as a relentless optimist, he was happy to accept this summarizing label of his personality. In his writings, that also may work as recommendations he stresses the importance to “know yourself”. That’s not an easy to achieve objective, as self-deceit is all to common.
However, in desperate moments or just on a rainy day (both are entries from Alain), you will need to know how to console yourself. Friendships and knowing how to please others become virtues, which contribute to your own happiness.
Perhaps the best summary of the history of ideas with respect to happiness is his last sentence in the paragraph “victories” (LXXXVII): “Le bonheur est une récompense qui vient à ceux qui ne l’ont pas cherchée.” In my own translation: Happiness is a reward for those who did not search for it. (Image: Bode Museum Berlin, Allegorie wealth in front, facing allegorie honour in background; middle duke Montecuccoli.)
