Money and Happiness
Many of us strive for a balance of inner and outer values. We realize that money alone, divorced from other values, brings limited happiness. Intrinsic values make us happy, even in the face of modest financial resources. Wealth and material comfort (so-called extrinsic values), reach the highest potential in the presence of a sound mind. Apart from this, ample resources and a decent standard of living are essential to happiness.
Research finds that rich countries, while seeking more riches, are no happier than all but the poorest countries*. However, this does not mean that we can reasonably say that rich people are more anxious than the poor**.
The person in a higher income bracket may be more satisfied with life than a poor person, but an older person may find that their sense of satisfaction surpasses that brought by a large boost in income.
Invariably, the most satisfying experiences have little to do with more and better things:
· A sense of independence
· A good measure of expertise in specific areas.
· A way to help other people
· A bond with other people
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* The Mixed Blessings of Material Progress: Diminishing Returns in the Pursuit of Happiness. R Eckersley - Journal of Happiness Studies, 2000.
** Rich Man's Burden, Dalton Conley, New York Times Op-Ed. Sept. 2, 2008
