Stop Chasing Happiness: The Philosophy of Frank Marteli

Contemporary well-being culture often becomes a mechanism for generating frustration, imposing rigorous self-observation and emotional KPIs on individuals. This article presents an alternative approach based on the philosophy of Frank Martela and the Finnish concept of Kilvoittel. Instead of the constant pursuit of fleeting happiness, the author proposes focusing on the foundations of self-determination theory: autonomy, relatedness, and competence. Through the lens of stoicism and Kristin Neff's self-compassion practice, the text demonstrates how to accept one's emotions and find authentic meaning in life beyond the corporate logic of success. It is a profound analysis of the psychological mechanisms that allow one to liberate oneself from the dictatorship of optimism and embrace true well-being.