backwards law

is the idea that the more you pursue feeling better all the time, the less satisfied you become, as pursuing something only reinforces that fact that you lack it in the first place.

The Backwards Law is the idea that the more you pursue feeling better all the time, the less satisfied you become, as pursuing something only reinforces that fact that you lack it in the first place. The more you desperately want to be rich, the more poor and unworthy you feel, regardless of how much money you actually make. The more you desperately want to be sexy and desired, the uglier you come to see yourself, regardless of your actual physical appearance. The more you desperately want to be happy and loved, the lonelier and more afraid you become, regardless of those who surround you. The more you want to be spiritually enlightened, the more self-centered and shallow you become in trying to get there.

Allen WattsThinkers

Allen Watts