We have all heard of the saying, “Money can’t buy you happiness.” But is that actually true? Happiness is a topic that dives into the intricate maze of human desires, dreams and aspirations. As we dig into the topic of happiness and what money can buy, we will understand that money is not merely a means to an end but a necessary item for achieving fulfillment. Most people in the United States will agree.
In works published in 2021 by the University of Pennsylvania’s Matthew Killingsworth, it was found that happiness rose steadily as annual income rose beyond $75,000.
Killingsworth wanted to make it clear in his study that money is not everything, saying that “money is not the secret to happiness, but it can probably help a bit.”
Though there is truth in Killingsworth’s words, we cannot ignore the facts of his study.
When we think of a plethora of income, we may consider expensive dinners, fancy vacations and unlimited shopping sprees. But let us bring it down to the basics of life fulfillment: money helps people with the day-to-day expenses and hassles of life. It can provide control, allowing us to take on issues as small as buying groceries, to bigger expenses, like paying an unexpected hospital bill.
According to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, one in four Americans were faced with financial struggles in 2019. These findings have yet to improve since inflation takes away from the ability of many Americans to pay for necessities of life, such as gas and food.
If you want to be happy, you need to understand what brings you happiness in your life. Is it your family? Maybe you can visit them, if only you could afford the plane ticket and time off work. Look at that amazing gift your mom would love. Too bad all you can afford is yet another candle. How about your friends? Shoot, you can’t go to dinner with them; just get water. And that party is next week. How much gas will it take to drive there and back?
How about the happiness you bring to yourself, not including family and friends? Well, eating ramen for the sixth day in a row is probably not helping your well-being. But healthy food is way too much for your budget. And personal development? Yes, don’t forget about those student loans you’re going to have to pay back. Also, your car is making a funny noise, and the mechanic says it will be a pretty penny. Maybe go to the gym and get your blood flowing; never mind the monthly membership is pricy, and rent is more important.
I am not implying that if you were to win the lottery tomorrow, all your problems would be solved. But a big part of the hassle of life would be supported. Money can help you find more happiness if you know how to use it. No, you do not have to buy an Aston Martin to find fulfillment, but you do have to live the everyday hustle-and-bustle of a human being in the 21st century. And some extra cash wouldn’t up your happiness scale? Come on, think about it.
Presley Zimmerman can be reached at [email protected]