Is life all but a compromise?

Is it all that difficult to keep everyone who matters, happy? Why is it that every important event in life seems to be a trade off? Why is it that we end up hurting someone in a quest for happiness? Why can't we ever live in a perfect world - one devoid of hurt egos, tears, moments of pain and sorrow?
Trying to keep someone happy seems to disappoint someone else. My actions seem to be driven by the fact that it would meet the expectations of some individuals in my life. So there are deeds done because it would give my folks happiness, other actions would reassure close friends. Am I losing focus of what I really want to do in the midst of all this chaos? Am I leading a life run by others? Am I bending over too much to others demands, forgetting what my real wants are in the process?