Written by: Heemani Agarwal, Intern, AMA

In today’s rapidly changing world, finding happiness may seem elusive and fleeting. However, instead of viewing it as a final destination, we can see it as an ongoing process of exploration. By identifying what truly makes us happy, embracing obstacles, and building relationships with others, we can discover joy on a daily basis, not just occasionally.

The following key points might help us identify what happiness is and how it is related to us:

• Happiness is an ongoing pursuit: Happiness isn’t just a distant goal—it’s an exhilarating journey of ongoing discovery and growth. Always seeking meaning and purpose in our endeavours is like adding fuel to our life’s engine—it keeps us moving forward with passion and excitement. This pursuit helps us align our values with our professional pursuits and infuses our journey with purpose and fulfillment.
• Embracing comfortability: By pushing ourselves outside our comfort zones, challenging ourselves, and exploring new options, we pave the way for personal and professional satisfaction.
• Effort and the Power of Networking: Sharing our stories can be a powerful tool to foster networking and inspire others. It allows us to learn from each other’s experiences and dare to embrace our unique journeys.

“The Pursuit of Happiness” is an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to navigate the complexities of finding happiness in their work.
Recently at AMA, we had a special book launch of Searching Happiness by Mr. Bharat Patel. During the launch, we had many eminent personalities who were a part of the launch and they enlightened us with their understanding of the word happiness or their belief or pursuit in life.

Mr. Prashant Gandhi, Partner at Siddhi Engineers strongly emphasized the importance of conciseness and believes that few words can have the greatest impact. He encouraged people to face challenges with positivity and hope as guiding principles.

Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh, a renowned ecological economist, is a shining example of academic thought leadership. He is also the youngest Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University and has a pioneering influence in various fields which emphasizes the need for us to look at Kartikeya sir. He emphasized the knowledge gained from their insightful discussions. He also offered a moving quotation, “Agar Dekhna Hai Meri Udaan Ko, Toh Aur Uncha Kar Do Aasman Ko”.

He also shared his ideas about the book Searching Happiness, that the book is like a “Quest to Illuminate the Path”. It offers a comprehensive analysis of spiritual principles and enlightenment.

Renowned environmentalist Mr. Kartikeya Sarabhai emphasized the value of depth in writing and credited Bharat sir’s discovery for his continued reading of more than 800 books. He emphasized the inseparable link between nature and human satisfaction and questioned the accepted notions of happiness. He also gave an example of Bhutan which is known for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product. He advocated understanding and perceiving nature for genuine happiness. He also added that a conventional view and approach to happiness is necessary.

Mr. Mahendra Patel, who has had a wealth of experience in engineering and design since he joined the Mamata Group of Companies in 1975 as Chairman and MD; explored the idea of self-realization. His focus on virtue-based friendships, and the importance of virtue, intelligence, and values, aligned with the central ideas of the book Searching Happiness, and the need to pursue happiness.

Dr. Savan Godiawala, Partner at Deloitte and a prolific speaker, co-author, and active contributor to industry associations displays an understanding of self-making and a strong philosophy. His findings on the effect of ignorance on happiness and its expression were evident. He also underlined the importance of self-realization and how the book has the same approach and understanding.

The author of this exemplary book, Mr. Bharat C. Patel stands as an outstanding individual with experience in executive positions. His revelations on the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita were a beacon of wisdom, guiding individuals on a transformative journey of self-realization. His emphasis on aligning actions with positive outcomes for lasting happiness, highlighting the intimate connection between human life and the pursuit of inner peace through consciousness was life-changing for all those who became a part of this event.

This collective wisdom provides a framework for individuals seeking inspiration, self-actualization, and lasting happiness and guides us to immerse ourselves in the perspectives offered by these outstanding voices to gain a deeper understanding of life’s journey.