Think about the last time you indulged in a sugary treat, bought something on impulse, or binged a series late into the night. Sure, it felt good in the moment, but how long did that satisfaction last?

Pleasures are temporary; they don't stick around to keep us company once the initial buzz wears off. And while there's nothing inherently wrong with enjoying life's delights, Seneca suggests we recognize their transient nature so we don't hinge our happiness on them.

So, next time you're about to reach for that fleeting pleasure, pause. Ask yourself, is this just a quick fix for a deeper need or desire? If so, is there something more substantial you could pursue instead that might offer a longer-lasting sense of fulfillment?

By shifting our focus from the ephemeral to the enduring—whether it's working on a personal project, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in self-improvement—we build a life not on the sands of fleeting pleasures but on the bedrock of true, sustained happiness.