" define full as being successfully productive where success is defined as 'getting what you want'. This is different from happiness which I define as 'liking what you get'.."

I like this.

It is very possible that your life is so full of taking care of things, events and responsibilities that are not directly contributing to your happiness. I actually know single moms who have to work multiple jobs to raise their kids and have NO time for themselves, and they are doing their duty by their children, but they are EXTREMELY unhappy because they have nothing that nourishes them.

I do it. There are ups and downs. But, I manage.

a life that is full can still be empty. it's the core of the thing and sadly, some souls are fated to be at unrest, despite the surroundings.

Happiness is a matter of perspective. Fullness is a matter of perspective. Sometimes when we have what we thought we wanted, we realize that it is not that thing that makes us happy at all.

I do know that being part of a big, harmonious, loving, funny, delightfully crazy, fun family makes me happy! The happiest times of my life are when I'm with my sisters, parents and nephews! There's a warmth and a sense of sanctity, safe haven, there that makes me feel totally content.

I think you can have a life that's full and still unhappy. Like, I'm picturing a person who is social, has a job, hobbies, pets/family/kids...yet they're still unhappy. I think a lot of people live like that, actually.