Feeling happy or fulfilled when helping others can vary from person to person and is influenced by various factors. If helping others doesn't make you happy, it could be due to several reasons:
Mismatched expectations: Sometimes, people expect helping others to bring them immediate and overwhelming joy, but real-life experiences may not always match these expectations. If you have overly optimistic expectations, the reality of helping others might not live up to them, leading to a sense of disappointment.
Emotional exhaustion: If you're constantly helping others without taking care of your own needs, it can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout. Helping others can be emotionally draining, especially if you neglect your own self-care and personal boundaries.
Unfulfilling experiences: Not all acts of helping yield the same level of satisfaction. If you engage in activities that don't align with your interests or values, you might not find them personally rewarding.
External validation vs. intrinsic motivation: If you're helping others solely to seek approval or validation from others, you might not experience genuine happiness. True fulfillment often comes from intrinsic motivation, where you help others because you genuinely want to make a positive difference.
Mismatched personality or interests: People are unique, and not everyone finds the same activities fulfilling. Your personality, values, and interests might differ from the ways you are trying to help others, resulting in a lack of satisfaction.
Unresolved personal issues: Sometimes, unresolved personal issues or emotional challenges can interfere with your ability to find happiness in helping others. Addressing and working through these issues can lead to a more fulfilling experience.
Expecting happiness to come solely from helping others: While helping others can be rewarding, it's not the only source of happiness. Happiness is a complex emotion influenced by various factors, including personal relationships, accomplishments, and overall life satisfaction.
Depression or other mental health issues: If you consistently find it difficult to experience happiness or pleasure, it might be a sign of an underlying mental health issue, such as depression. In such cases, seeking professional help and support is crucial.
It's essential to understand that happiness is a multifaceted emotion, and different things bring joy to different people. If helping others doesn't make you happy, it's okay. Focus on discovering what truly brings you joy and fulfillment in life, and remember that self-care and personal growth are essential aspects of overall well-being.