Money Doesn't Make You Happier.....

Generali

Itismehonest wrote: »

It would be nice if we could all find a level at which we were satisfied with our lot but unfortunately, whether unemployed, NMW or millionaire, there's always something just out of the reach of our pocket that we would reaalllly like to have.

Well indeed.

This research seems to show that there isn't.

Itismehonest

Generali wrote: »

Well indeed.

This research seems to show that there isn't.

Sadly, human nature (call it either the wish to improve our lot or plain greed, whichever you prefer) gets in the way.

suzeesu2000

True but, as the saying goes, I would rather cry in a Mercedes than on a bike!

Generali

Itismehonest wrote: »

Sadly, human nature (call it either the wish to improve our lot or plain greed, whichever you prefer) gets in the way.

I like to put a good spin on it: maybe it's this same drive that has led to the motor car, internet, penicillin, controlled use of fire, agriculture, writing, trade, democracy and Stevie Wonder.

HAMISH_MCTAVISH

In my case, it's certainly true that more money does indeed make me happier, more comfortable, less stressed, etc.

But equally, I've found there is a balance point where the extra effort, stress, etc, required to earn more just isn't worth it and makes me less happy.

My current job is stressful but I enjoy it and have found a balance that works for me.

I could certainly earn a fair bit more if I was willing to move elsewhere in the UK, or a lot more if I was willing to move overseas again, but at this point it doesn't seem worth it.

That may change of course, it has at many times in life so far, but for now I earn enough to make me happy without having to work harder so long may it continue.

Generali

HAMISH_MCTAVISH wrote: »

But equally, I've found there is a balance point where the extra effort, stress, etc, required to earn more just isn't worth it and makes me less happy.

This popped into my brain as I was typing it. Earning more often requires more effort and the stress of the extra effort may outweigh the benefits from more cash.

I have a good mate who earns a million quid every 2-3 years. He could make a million every year if he wanted but he's happy with his job and life so why put in the extra effort and stress?

It doesn't stop him moaning like hell of course....

HAMISH_MCTAVISH

Generali wrote: »

Earning more often requires more effort and the stress of the extra effort may outweigh the benefits from more cash.
.

Yep, that's exactly right.

It's a weird thing to quantify too, but at this stage of life in my line of work it's more likely I'll need to move up for other reasons (career longevity, at some point if you're not seen to be progressing you get a reputation for being burned out, and then pushed out) before I'd ever feel the urge to move up for financial reasons.

I reckon that point is still 5 years or so away for me, I could happily continue where I am for that long without it raising any eyebrows, but the expectation is there and I am aware of it.

So when that happens I'll need to take on the extra workload and stress to stay in the game, and if I have to do that anyway, I may as well move to where the money is best.

pqrdef

I think a lot of retired people are a lot happier than a lot of working people.

Then they spend their time arbing and stoozing and collecting £5 rewards and clipping coupons and doing surveys and swapping their clubcard vouchers for tokens and anything to make an extra few bob.

But they still wouldn't want to work if they were offered a job.

Being your own low-paid boss can make you happier than being somebody else's 6-figure slave.

BobQ

lostinrates wrote: »

I have always accepted money makes ME happier.

In our current situation more money would be instant gratification....a working heating system, a decent bathroom or two. Real money would mean more choice over our working pattern and dh and I practically getting more time together, which is pretty happy making .

I am really impressed by people who feel they can be just as satisfied with a lifestyle that offers fewer choices (choice is an important part of happiness, or satisfaction I think) and less comfort. It's just not me.

I can appreciate this argument, but I think its not the availability of money that makes people happy its the availability of enough money to satisfy their needs and aspirations. Some people feel deprived if they cannot buy a new hours every five years, or take a holiday abroad 3 times a year or but a better car every other year, or surround themselves with material things that impress their friends. Equally there are those who live frugally through choice, repair things, holiday at home and drive an old banger.

So I would say money only brings happiness to those who feel the need to spend it. To those who do not it can be a source of stress to have money. But maybe this is what you mean!

wymondham

I think money does make you happier, as long as you know how to spend it. If you're filthy rich for example then it would make you happier giving to worth while causes?