The unfettered pursuit of happiness ironically tends to leave us unhappy and alone because we often resort to instant gratification and trampling others to obtain what we desire.
Affluence and power are the primary means through which humanity pursues happiness; however, worldly, external happiness is fleeting and said means are frequently achieved at the expense of one's character.
Thus, we ought to focus on cultivating internal happiness - recognizing that it is a choice and a skill that we can develop like a muscle - and instead pursue meaning.
“I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that it's not the answer.” - Jim Carrey