It’s often said that the key to happiness, life and wellbeing lies in moderation and avoiding extremes. It's also an ancient view from Aristotle in Greece to Confucius in China.  And today apps like Headspace, valued at billions, promote moderation and lead the wellness sector. But as Oscar Wilde warned, “everything in moderation, including moderation.” Critics argue moderation is not just limiting but damaging to the individual and society. Being your authentic self, they maintain, is about embracing excess, and doing so unapologetically. Studies from Maslow and Kahneman confirm our most authentic and meaningful experiences are at the extremes.  And research shows grit and perseverance, even if extreme and obsessive at times, often leads to higher satisfaction. Furthermore, whilst Gen Z are more moderate in spending, alcohol-consumption and drug-taking than the over 40s, surveys show they remain the least happy age group.

Is the pursuit of moderation a mistake and a denial of life?  Are we most authentically ourselves in excess?  Or is moderation the route to our true selves, and would abandoning moderation be dangerous for individuals and society?

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