In a society hyper-fixated on the pursuit of financial success and material wealth, the true meaning of happiness and fulfilment can easily become blurred. While material wealth undoubtedly plays an important role in life, its relationship with happiness is more complex than we often acknowledge. Instead of viewing money as the ultimate source of joy, it may be beneficial to cognitively reframe our perceptions to view it as a tool that can enhance our journey toward a joyful and fulfilling life.
The Wealth-Happiness Relationship
While financial stability certainly facilitates overall well-being, research shows that beyond a certain income threshold, wealth’s impact on happiness actually diminishes. This interesting phenomenon in happiness economics, known as the “Easterlin Paradox”, reveals that once our basic needs are met, overall life satisfaction is more strongly influenced by other non-monetary factors such as relationships, personal growth, and sense of purpose and community. For those facing poverty and financial instability, money can significantly boost happiness through alleviating financial stress. However, for persons who are already satisfied with their baseline standard of living, additional wealth may not have as substantial an impact.
Interestingly, a concept in psychology known as the ‘hedonic treadmill’ suggests that an individual’s baseline level of happiness tends to regulate and return to normal after significant life events, including changes in income. This implies that while increased wealth may temporarily boost happiness, people eventually adapt to new financial circumstances, resulting in relatively stable levels of long term happiness that are not as easily shifted by changes in money-matters as we may think. The truth is, once our basic necessities are met, our decision making and perceptions- financial and beyond- plays a large part in determining how finances influence our happiness.
Financial Decisions and Wellbeing
Our perceptions of money and the way we make financial decisions have far-reaching consequences for the way we experience life and the structures we create to foster happiness and wellbeing. The link between financial decision making may seem intuitive: financially responsible decisions such as budgeting, saving, and investing can boost happiness by reducing financial turbulence. Essentially, this pathway between financial decision making and happiness hinges on eliminating financial obstacles like debt. However, decision making can also be linked to happiness through a more proactive and intentional pathway that seeks to promote and implement a framework which actively boosts well-being. These decisions must be made with sound introspection and an understanding of the factors we value most. Whether it’s prioritizing experiences and family life over material wealth, pursuing a career that aligns with our values, or spending money on self-enhancing activities such as hobbies, therapy, or time with friends, the decisions we make significantly impact our happiness.
This extends deeper to the psychological root of our relationship with money. People who view money as a tool to move closer to their goals often feel greater satisfaction and security, whereas those who view money as an end goal or symbol of status, prestige, or success are often plagued by pervasive dissatisfaction and constant pressure. This unhealthy attachment to money causes an inter-link between self-identity, happiness, and financial status, and drives stress and erodes well-being. Our attitudes toward money matter, and through extensive self-examination, we can determine where our perceptions currently lie, and shift toward a more neutral perception, and healthy attachment to finances.
Beyond Tangible: The Value of Memories
When discussing money and happiness, it’s essential to appreciate the role of memories and experiences. Though intangible, these assets constantly appreciates in value, and enrich our lives forever. Research shows that investing in experiences and memories—such as travel, hobbies, or quality time spent with loved ones—predicts greater happiness and life satisfaction in the long-term compared to accumulating material wealth. This perspective helps us understand the true meaning of life, which, of course, differs for everyone. Experiences create lasting memories, foster unbreakable connections, and give us a sense of purpose and fulfilment that transcends the temporary pleasure of material assets. So ask yourself, where and with whom do you feel the most joy? This reflection may help guide you toward the things you should be investing time and money in.
Ultimately, the pursuit of happiness extends beyond financial success. By recognizing that money is a means to an end rather than the end itself, we can make more intentional decisions that align with our core values and priorities. Investing in experiences, building meaningful relationships, and pursuing personal growth are core sources of lasting joy and satisfaction for many people. As we navigate our financial journey, it’s crucial to keep in mind our accumulated wealth should serve to enhance our lives and well-being, rather than define them.