Some unhappiness can increase meaning

Research found that some gloom can lead us to pay appropriate attention to problems and find solutions. In other words, when we are sad about something, we are more likely to try and fix it.

Too many good feelings can lead us to disregard problems. A study found that the fear of failure is positively correlated with meaning derived from romance, friendship, and family.

Bringing good things into your life, such as love or career success usually involves risk. Risk doesn't make us happy and can often bring disappointment. But it can also bring better rewards than if we played it safe.