We've all heard the saying "money can't buy happiness," but let's be real – having enough money to pay the bills without stress sure feels better than struggling to make ends meet.
As someone who's experienced both lean times and comfortable periods, I've spent a lot of time pondering this question.
Research shows that money does increase happiness – up to a point.
Once our basic needs are met (around $75,000-$95,000 annually in most developed countries), additional income provides diminishing returns on our well-being.
It's like eating chocolate cake – the first slice is lovely, but by the fourth slice, you're not really enjoying it anymore.
What really matters is how we spend our money.
Using it to buy experiences, invest in relationships, or give to others tends to bring more lasting joy than accumulating material possessions.
Think about it – you probably remember that fun vacation with loved ones more fondly than last year's smartphone upgrade.
But here's what often gets overlooked: financial security isn't just about the numbers – it's about the freedom to make choices.
Having enough money means being able to leave a toxic job, pursue meaningful work, or spend more time with family.
That kind of freedom is priceless.
The key seems to be finding your personal "enough" – the amount that lets you live comfortably without becoming consumed by the endless pursuit of more.
After all, the happiest people aren't necessarily the richest – they're the ones who've learned to appreciate what they have while building a life aligned with their values.
I always thought I was going to climb the career ladder and skyrocket my income.
A few years into my career, I realized that the sacrifices were not worth the payoff. I am making enough to be comfortable and grateful. Beyond that though, I have my free time to pursue what I want.
Now, I don't think I want to go up to many more "rungs" on the ladder. I am always watching where I am to see if it actually is valuable to move up, considering the resources I would need to commit.