Ironically, I've found that trying to realize dreams and side-projects in my spare time doesn't help at ALL with long-term happiness, especially the sort that would be apparent to a casual observer. I get short-term highs and satisfaction from completing bits and pieces but unless I complete a project that can be shared, sold, or used personally it winds up being a drain on my life. Yet another unfinished ambition to add to the pile, like the accumulation of smelly worn out clothes in my closet that I keep meaning to sort out.