Money Can’t Buy Happiness, But….
There are two groups of people in the world. The first, which is the vast majority, believes that money 100% buys happiness. The second, a small minority, believes money cannot, in any shape or form, buy happiness. What's the truth? Both are right and both are wrong, kinda.
Over and over again, the studies have shown that money largely cannot make us happy. HOWEVER, there's one caveat to this that needs attention. Money can't make us happy after our basic needs are met (plus a little bit more for wants). Before our needs are met, though, is a different story.
Think of it this way. It's the 20th of the month. Rent is due in 10 days. You have $500 in your bank account, but you somehow need at least $1,500 in there by the first. It doesn't take Captain Obvious to know that another $1,000-$2,000 of income is going to make you significantly happier. Perhaps "happy" is the wrong word here. The weight of not having our basic needs met is tremendous. It's like putting a heavy weight on your chest. It hurts, but the cumulative effect of it sitting there, compressing down on your chest, making it harder and harder to breathe, is what makes it feel even scarier. That's what life can feel like in the absence of having our basic needs met. Some call it the four walls: housing, food, transportation, and clothing.
If you regularly read this blog, in some form of life stage where your needs aren’t being met, and you scoff when you hear me say that money can't buy happiness, know that I'm thinking about you, too. Sure, once our basic needs are met, money isn't going to make you all that much happier. I'll die on that hill. However, whatever financial upside you need to get your basic needs met will absolutely increase your quality of life, reduce mind-boggling stress, and improve your well-being. There's no doubt about that!
If this resonates with you, know you're not alone! One step at a time. Find ways to increase your income. Find ways to reduce housing and transportation costs. Ask for help, and leverage that help to get a better footing. Get intentional. Know this is a season; a hard season, but a season, nonetheless.
Wherever you're at on this financial journey, just know it's not the final chapter. It's just the latest chapter, and the best is yet to come. Embrace the journey and continue to point your eyes (and your decisions) to a better tomorrow. You got this!
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