On this week’s poll, I shared with my viewers the famous story of Napoleon. 47 people voted they are indeed not the same while 27 voted they are.

At first, this didn’t make sense at all. Why am I sharing one of the most successful leaders of all time and then trying to attempt to differentiate the very blurry line between comfort vs happiness. But tune in and figure it out.

Comfort and happiness are often erroneously regarded as synonymous. Keep in mind that we use these words in this certain manner becuase of modern entertainment. We argue that unlimited relationships, money, security lead to happiness. #MaterialismIsAScam.

However, I am not saying don’t be comfortable lol. By all means, go ahead and embrace whatever makes it easier for you to be you. To be that level of comfortable is to have one’s needs met, to live without stress or physical suffering, whereas happiness represents a deeper sense of fulfillment — a profound state of contentment that transcends mere material ease. The distinction between comfort and happiness is not merely a philosophical debate; it is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, as exemplified by some of history’s most powerful figures.

Consider Napoleon Bonaparte…see now everyone understands why I called him out, a man who possessed all that the world could offer — power, wealth, and influence — yet famously admitted, “I haven’t seen six happy days in my life.” His story illuminates the divide between comfort and happiness and underscores the elusive nature of genuine pure joy.

So why is Napoleon being called out?

Comfort was defined as primarily by external circumstances. When we think of comfort, we envision stability, financial security, and a life free from physical hardship…I know you know this but I am repeating this for a reason. During his reign, Napoleon epitomized comfort in terms of power and resources. He enjoyed all the luxuries one could desire, with legions ready to serve his every whim, palaces to shelter him, and an empire that spanned across Europe. In a purely material sense, Napoleon led an extraordinarily comfortable life. Yet, despite all his triumphs and luxuries, his reflection that he had not even experienced a mere six happy days of happiness. This reveals a profound truth: comfort, no matter how grand, does not guarantee happiness.

So the magical question: What is happiness?

Happiness, by contrast, is an internal state — one deeply connected to our emotional and psychological well-being. True happiness requires a sense of purpose, meaningful emotional connections, and inner peace — qualities that cannot be purchased with power or material wealth. Napoleon’s life serves as a vivid illustration of this truth. Despite his unparalleled success as a military leader and his status as Emperor of France, his life was fraught with personal struggles. He faced betrayal, loneliness, and an insatiable desire for more — more power, more success, more control. These relentless desire of MORE MORE MORE left him in a constant state of unrest, rendering happiness an unattainable goal.

The parallel between Napoleon’s life and the distinction between comfort and happiness lies in the recognition that external achievements often conceal inner turmoil. He never found peace, as his focus remained on expanding his empire and proving his greatness, rather than nurturing meaningful relationships or finding contentment in simple joys.

The very comforts he amassed became chains that bound him to a life of stress and competition, leaving little room for genuine happiness.

Napoleon’s admission about his lack of happy days serves as a poignant cautionary tale about the human condition. It reminds us that the pursuit of comfort — whether in the form of wealth, power, or status — can easily become a substitute for the pursuit of happiness.

In the modern world, many of us make the same mistake, believing that comfort will inevitably lead to happiness. We work longer hours to earn more money, buy larger homes, or attain higher status, often at the expense of our mental health, relationships, and personal growth. Just like Napoleon, we risk losing sight of what truly brings us joy. This is my point with Napoleon….or maybe even you? or even me?

Reflecting on my own life, I recognize moments where I too have fallen into this trap — chasing comfort, believing it would bring happiness. I remember the times I worked tirelessly to secure a client deadline or to reach a milestone, only to find that the satisfaction was fleeting. The true moments of happiness came in the quiet, unassuming experiences — sharing laughter with loved ones when it isn’t something that funny, feeling the warmth of connection through a hug, or finding peace in solitude. These moments, though simple, carried a depth that no material achievement ever could.

Comfort and happiness, therefore, are fundamentally different. Comfort is about the removal of discomfort, about reaching a state of ease. Happiness, on the other hand, is about fulfillment — finding meaning and purpose beyond the superficial aspects of life.

To attain genuine happiness, we must look beyond material comforts and external achievements. We must cultivate deeper relationships, seek meaningful experiences, and find a sense of purpose that resonates with our innermost values. Happiness is not about the quantity of our successes or the luxuries we accumulate; it is about the quality of our inner lives and the connections we forge. Napoleon’s life serves as a powerful testament to this enduring truth: comfort may ease our journey, but only true happiness can make it worthwhile.

It is only when we dare to look inward, to face our vulnerabilities, and to cherish the simple moments of life, that we can begin to understand what true happiness feels like. It is in the embrace of a loved one, the joy of helping someone in need, or the peace of a quiet evening spent in reflection. These are the moments that shape a life worth living. Comfort can be pleasant, but happiness — real, deep happiness — is what makes the journey meaningful.