"Happiness consists more in small conveniences or pleasures that occur every day than in great pieces of good fortune that happen but seldom to a man in the course of his life."

We tend to assume a lot about a person’s happiness based on their achievements, milestones, and good fortune. But quite often, whatever they’ve accomplished by work and/or luck results in momentary happiness. After its initial effect, the feeling may fade over time, and it may experience “the law of diminishing returns”.

This quote, by the accomplished writer, inventor, scientist, diplomat, publisher, and philosopher Benjamin Franklin, reminds us that major achievements, milestones, and good fortune don’t happen every day. At least not frequently enough for sustained happiness. This is why it’s dangerous to base our happiness on such factors. Rather, it’s better to focus on the “small conveniences or pleasures” that can be renewed each day. Consider what these things are and how they can be incorporated into every day–or most days.