While writing the Max and Olivia series and reading about longevity and wellbeing, the topic of wealth and happiness inevitably popped up. What did I discover?
The relationship between money and well-being is complex and having a moderate amount of money can bring many benefits, such as financial security, access to health care, housing and the ability to afford basic necessities. However, having too much money can also lead to negative consequences. One study found that people who make more money are not necessarily happier, and may even be less satisfied with their lives. Other research has shown that people who have a lot of money may experience increased stress and anxiety due to their wealth, as they may feel pressure to maintain their lifestyle or may worry about losing their wealth. Another article said, that having a lot of money can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection from others, as well as feelings of guilt or shame. Additionally, some people may become overly focused on accumulating wealth, which can lead to neglecting other important aspects of their lives, such as family, friends, and personal well-being.
My conclusion – wealth is just one factor that influences happiness and as with most aspects of our lives, it is maintaining the right balance that is important, a balance that allows us to prioritise and attend to the various aspects of our life, such as physical and mental health, relationships, work, and personal growth. However, for those who do not have enough money, the negative outcomes are indisputable.
