Mohamad-Ali Salloum is a Pharmacist and science writer. He loves simplifying science to the general public and healthcare students through words and illustrations. When he's not working, you can usually find him in the gym, reading a book, or learning a new skill.
Are you feeling that you are not fulfilled with your life?
Mohamad-Ali Salloum, PharmD • September 5, 2024
Share
Are you feeling that you are not fulfilled with your life?
You’re not happy, you’re depressed, you’re feeling down, and it’s been like this for months.
You want to feel genuinely happy again, right?
1.Drop the Idea of Chasing Happiness
Happiness is often seen as the ultimate goal, but it’s a fleeting emotion that comes and goes. Instead of constantly chasing happiness, focus on finding meaning and purpose in your life. For example, if you love helping others, consider volunteering at a local charity. Engaging in meaningful activities can lead to a deeper, more lasting sense of fulfillment.
2.Get Moving
Physical activity is crucial for mental health. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to feelings of lethargy and depression. Incorporate at least 15 minutes of intense physical activity into your daily routine. For instance, you could start your day with a quick jog around your neighborhood or join a local fitness class. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can significantly improve your overall well-being.
3.Feed Your Mind with Positivity
The thoughts you entertain first thing in the morning can set the tone for your entire day. Start your day with positive affirmations, gratitude, or motivational reading. For example, you could keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re thankful for each morning. Avoid checking your phone or watching the news immediately after waking up, as these can often introduce stress and negativity. Instead, focus on cultivating a positive mindset that will carry you through the day.
4.Surround Yourself with the Right People
The company you keep has a profound impact on your mental and emotional health. Spend time with people who inspire, support, and uplift you. For example, if you have a friend who always encourages you to pursue your goals, make an effort to spend more time with them. Avoid those who drain your energy or bring negativity into your life. Building a supportive social network can provide you with the encouragement and positivity needed to feel more fulfilled.
5.Listen to More Than Just Your Basic Needs
While it’s important to satisfy your basic needs like food, sleep, and physical comfort, it’s equally important to nurture your higher needs. These include intellectual stimulation, emotional connection, and personal growth. For instance, you could take up a new hobby that challenges your mind, like learning a new language or playing a musical instrument. Engage in activities that challenge your mind, foster deep relationships, and contribute to your personal development.
6.Work on What Satisfies You
Identify what truly brings you joy and satisfaction. This could be a hobby, a career goal, or a personal project. Dedicate time and effort to these pursuits, as they can provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose. For example, if you love painting, set aside time each week to work on your art. When you engage in activities that you are passionate about, you are more likely to experience a deeper sense of fulfillment.
List of Services
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mohamad-Ali Salloum, PharmD
Share
Recent articles:
References: Zaniletti I, Larson DR, Lewallen DG, Berry DJ, Maradit Kremers H. How to Distinguish Correlation from Causation in Orthopaedic Research. J Arthroplasty. 2022;38(4):634‑637. [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov] Association of Health Care Journalists. Correlation vs. Causation. [healthjournalism.org] Rush J, Ajami M, Look K, Margolis A. Statistics Review Part 10: Causality and Confounding. J Pharm Soc Wis. [jpswi.org] Biostat Prime. Correlation vs Causation: Meaning, Differences & Examples. [biostatprime.com] Koopmans E, Schiller C. Understanding Causation in Healthcare: An Introduction to Critical Realism. Qual Health Res. 2022;32(8–9):1207–1214. [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
References: Very Big Brain. Somatic Memories: How Physical Sensations Trigger Past Memories and Emotions . 2023 Nov 26. [verybigbrain.com] Misattribution of arousal. Wikipedia . 2026. [en.wikipedia.org] Zimbardo P. The Misattribution of Arousal Study (Dutton & Aron) . 2026. [zimbardo.com] Higgins L. Why You Feel Anxious After Drinking Coffee . TIME. 2025 Nov 11. [time.com] Double KS. Metacognitive ability is associated with reduced emotion suppression . Scientific Reports. 2026 Jan 28. [nature.com] Merkebu J et al. What is metacognitive reflection? Front Educ. 2023 Apr 5. [researchgate.net] Meyers S et al. Cognitive Reappraisal is More Effective for Regulating Emotions than Moods . Affective Science. 2025 Jun 6. [link.springer.com]
Are they the same?
A Practical Guide for the Public.
Did you know that your emotions are just suggestions?
Short-form videos like Reels and TikTok rapidly trigger dopamine, stress, and attention circuits—discover how they impact your brain, mood, and focus, plus practical tips to restore balance.
How short‑form videos rapidly flip your emotions, affect attention, sleep, and motivation—and what science says about protecting your mental health.
Discover the science behind resisting temptation—how willpower works, what drains it, and how lifestyle factors like fatigue, stress, and habits influence self‑control.
Part 10 — Bringing It All Together: Conclusions, Prevention, Recovery, and the Bigger Social Picture
How science, psychology, and society intersect — and what it means for the future of addiction prevention and recovery
How emerging neuroscience, biomarkers, technology, and personalized medicine are reshaping the next decade of addiction research.