A repost from one of my favourites of 2021.

In the start-up space, one of the core commandments is to create a MVP: a Minimum Viable Product. This is a version of a product with just the minimum number of features for it to be usable by early customers. It’s not perfect, but it works and gets the job done.

Similarly, the Minimum Viable Happiness (MVH) is the minimum number of features one needs in their life to be happy. It’s the scenario where you think, “even if everything else goes wrong, I’m okay with this right now.”

Everybody has their own MVH. One person might require an en-suite to be fulfilled; another could be content sleeping amidst nature. One person might need to be surrounded by friends and activity; another could find solitude totally blissful.

Recently, I’ve been testing different MVHs for myself. One day I spent totally outdoors and continuously listened to podcasts to see if solitude was necessary for my happiness. That was a really miserable day. Now I know having some quiet is critical for my health.

Another day, I decided to not write anything to see if writing was important. No notes, journaling or typing. That day was also excruciating. Now I know I need to be able to write to get through the day.

So far, my MVH is pretty low. To be happy, all I really need is some quiet, somewhere to write on, a book to read, a few close friends, plus around $50 a week to cover food and water. Having a comfortable bed, being around nature and living in moderate temperatures are great bonuses, but unnecessary.

Clarifying your MVH does a few things. First, it cultivates gratitude, because if you recognise that your MVH is fulfilled, you are probably less likely to mourn over your misfortunes. Things are pretty good as they are. Second, it helps you focus your attention. If you know already know what will keep you content, you can focus on other priorities like learning new skills or bettering the world, knowing you’ll be happy regardless of what happens.

Here’s to more MVH testing.