# Can there be happiness without ambition?

Source: https://whatismaven.com/ep/can-there-be-happiness-without-ambition/
Published: 2026-01-12

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Are you struggling to find happiness? You may be stuck with shallow happiness, when you need to focus on deep happiness.

Jeff Sarris and Amara Andrew explore the difference between shallow happiness and deep happiness. They discuss how being present-focused can lead to instant joy but might prevent long-term achievements. They reference Derek Sivers’ philosophy of ‘Hell Yeah or No,’ emphasizing doing things that truly excite you. The hosts also share personal experiences with balancing short-term joy and long-term goals, highlighting the importance of building a brand over time rather than seeking instant fame. They conclude with insights on ambition, objectives, and the value of consistent effort in achieving true happiness.

00:00 Introduction to Shallow vs. Deep Happiness\
00:35 Meet the Hosts: Amara and Jeff\
01:13 The Philosophy of ‘Hell Yeah or No’\
03:08 Conferences and Business Networking\
05:00 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Happiness\
07:11 Ambition vs. Objectives\
14:01 Living in the Moment vs. Planning for the Future\
23:51 Driving Exotic Cars\
24:06 The Fascination with Ferrari\
25:42 The Joy of Anticipation\
26:33 Wrestling and Viral Moments\
29:54 The Pitfalls of Chasing Virality\
32:38 Building a Sustainable Brand\
33:48 The Importance of Hyperlocal Content\
37:48 Consistency Over Virality\
48:05 Celebrating Small Wins