Borja Vilaseca, author, on happiness: 'The problem is we have been educated to be very unhappy'

Borja Vilaseca, a best-selling author in the self-help genre, contends that individuals are fundamentally educated to be unhappy. He believes society instills a false notion that happiness stems from external sources like wealth, fame, or romantic ideals, leading to a perpetual, unfulfilling pursuit.

Vilaseca draws from his own challenging upbringing, which he describes as marked by family dysfunction, psychological violence, and later, substance abuse. After hitting rock bottom at age 19, he embarked on a quest for self-understanding. This journey led him to embrace Eastern philosophies and neuroscience, culminating in his latest book, "Ser feliz es fácil" (Being Happy is Easy), which offers a method for life enjoyment.

His concept of happiness evolved significantly. Initially, like many young people, he sought it in social activities and external validation. However, he realized this external search was flawed, often projecting unmet childhood needs onto relationships, leading to unhealthy attachments and toxic dynamics. A profound crisis prompted him to stop resisting reality and instead flow with the present moment, achieving inner peace.

Vilaseca now defines happiness as a state of consciousness and presence. He stresses the importance of deep emotional and spiritual education, cultivating gratitude, and healing one's inner child. He suggests that true contentment arises from within, not from external achievements or relationships.