“Cash, cash, cash, always bright, in the affluent individual’s domain.” Abba knows me well, that’s likely what you’re pondering. We all dream about discovering a sort of money tree—an endless well of income and comfortable financial stability, with plenty of cash at our disposal. It’s a widespread belief that money can eliminate all your issues and purchase happiness. However, this notion only holds some truth and has its limits.
“We associate wealth with safety and liberty, which inevitably leads to feelings of insecurity and confinement,” remarks David Geller, author of Wealth & Happiness.
In his publication, Geller conveys an essential message that money doesn’t equate to safety or freedom. It won’t transform a discontented existence into a joyful one. However, money serves as a tool, which you can leverage to discover joy and improve your life.
“The aim of possessing wealth is to utilize it to create the existence you wish for, uplift the lives of those you cherish, and leave behind a legacy that reflects your passions and values,” he states.
Charles Richards, author of The Psychology of Wealth, concurs. “It’s no accident that money is referred to as currency, derived from the term current—the movement of electrical charge through a conductor,” he notes. “Mastering the responsible management of money and serving others is akin to using electric current in a beneficial way. We can become mighty transformers of societal currency. The manner in which we wield that power comes with great accountability.”
Once you reach a certain income level, there isn’t strong evidence suggesting that happiness increases in line with wealth. Instead, the way you utilize your funds plays a significant role in whether you’re living joyfully or facing despair.
Does this truly hold significance? Yes, indeed. There are paths to happiness, and the initial step is establishing a secure lifestyle—not indulging in your next fleeting pleasure. After alleviating the stress of meeting basic needs such as food, shelter for your family, and an emergency savings, you can then consider the enjoyable perks that come with financial success, like a table for two at that upscale French eatery nearby or a relaxing weekend spa visit. Nevertheless, this shouldn’t be the ultimate objective; extravagant goods won’t bring lasting happiness—not in the long haul.
“Purchasing luxury items or experiences may provide a temporary thrill, but it soon diminishes,” Geller explains. “Sacrificing happiness for pleasure is a poor bargain. It is usually a beneficial exchange to trade some pleasure for added happiness. We can allocate some of the resources we freed up to assist those we hold dear, and in doing so, we are likely to experience a significant increase in joy.”
According to Geller, individuals should channel their financial achievements toward fostering better relationships, enriching their experiences, or impacting the lives of those who matter most. Wealth is fundamentally about the resources at our disposal to create the life we genuinely desire.
“When we view wealth solely in monetary terms, we fail to recognize the strength of our other wealth dimensions and might disregard essential solutions to our most pressing challenges or opportunities,” he elaborates. “In truth, in numerous instances, our non-financial aspects of wealth are substantially more potent than our money.”
Happiness might be just around the corner; now, it’s up to you to seek it out. But how?
Geller advises starting with introspection—reflect on what you savor most in your life, what causes you stress, and what facets of your existence require some constructive change. Secondly, express your ambitions to friends and family—and surround yourself with those who encourage your dreams and intentions to modify certain areas of your life. Then, it’s time for action—implement one small change, a step that will steer your life toward a better, more joyful future.
“Success does not demand a vast amount of money,” asserts Richards. “What it necessitates is a conviction in one’s intrinsic value and a readiness to consciously invest in oneself…. A new mindset must be applied to move ahead in life and attain something more significant.” Success—and happiness—derives from making wise choices and pursuing your passions.
As Geller states, “Achieving happiness requires effort and time.” So take a deep breath, commit to the work, and seek your happiness.
