Introduction: Happiness is pursued differently across life contexts, yet the underlying reason remains unexplored. This qualitative study aimed to better understand the orientation to happiness among working and non-working adults.
Purpose: Specifically, it sought to (a) explore the reasons for hedonic orientation among non-working adults, (b) explore the reasons for eudaimonic orientation among working adults, (c) examine how hedonic orientation relates to emotional suppression, and (d) examine how eudaimonic orientation relates to cognitive reappraisal.
Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 participants (8 working, eight non-working, balanced by gender). Interviews were transcribed and analysed using Braun and Clarke's Thematic Analysis (2006).
Results: After analysis, there were six broader themes with separate sub-themes formed, namely, (a) characteristics of Hedonic Happiness, (b) factors contributing to Hedonic Happiness, (c) characteristics of Eudaimonic Happiness, (d) factors contributing to Eudaimonic Happiness, (e) Impact of Happiness, and (f) People's definition of Happiness. Results revealed a clear distinction between hedonic and eudaimonic orientation. Hedonic orientation among non-working adults was characterized by prioritising pleasurable experiences, short-term gratification, and minimising discomfort. It was supported by carefree or nonchalant personality traits, often linked with emotional suppression and higher psychological inflexibility. Eudaimonic orientation among working adults emphasized autonomy, personal growth, self-acceptance, purpose, and meaningful relationships. Contributing factors included positive family and social influences and reflective personality traits. Participants also expressed having personal definitions of happiness, including collective well-being, spiritual dimensions, and the persistent belief that happiness evolves with age.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of placing happiness within interpersonal and cultural contexts, showing how people deal with the brittleness and quest for pleasure in daily life, and also the psychological mechanisms underlying happiness, and provides insights into the role of work status in shaping individuals' emotional and cognitive flexibility.