Comment: This quote is from John Stuart Mill's autobiography, titled Autobiography. Specifically, it is found in Chapter 5, where Mill reflects on his personal philosophy of happiness and its relationship to leading a meaningful life.I never, indeed, wavered in the conviction that happiness is the test of all rules of conduct, and the end of life.
But I now thought that this end was only to be attained by not making it the direct end.
Those only are happy (I thought) who have their minds fixed on some object other than their own happiness; on the happiness of others, on the improvement of mankind, even on some art or pursuit, followed not as a means, but as itself an ideal end.
Aiming thus at something else, they find happiness by the way.
Credit: John Stuart Mill
In this passage, Mill discusses his realization that happiness cannot be pursued directly but is instead a byproduct of dedicating oneself to a purpose beyond mere self-interest, such as the welfare of others or a higher ideal. This insight was a key turning point in his intellectual and emotional development.
Source: The Classic Autobiography of John Stuart Mill
(Chapter 5)Posts where this quotation is embedded
- Obliquity in a Complex World In a complex world, goals are often best achieved indirectly
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(Pixabay)In-person, 7–11 September 2026
Warbrook House, Hampshire, UK
We are living and working in conditions of uncertainty, complexity, and rapid change. This week-long workshop with David Gurteen and John Hovell offers a space to practise Conversational Leadership as a shared, lived experience.