It’s not the daily increase, but the decrease. Hack away at the unessential.”

BRUCE LEE

Western society generally promotes the idea of accumulating more. Advertising and marketing messages bombard us. The common thought seems to be earn more and spend more. It’s all about visual cues of “success” through a bigger house, a nicer car and better schools.

Is all this accumulation of external items making us happy?

Money and happiness

Studies have shown that happiness does increase with higher levels of income, but only up to a certain point (roughly $75k a year). Once all your basic needs and a comfortable living are met, the happiness level reaches a plateau before it starts to decline. You know the saying – “more money, more problems”.

As income rises higher and higher we face a new set of problems, which could lead to less happiness. This could be from working longer hours with less family time, taking on a more stressful job, or pressure to “keep up with the Joneses” which can lead to spending being your means.

Reflection

It’s important to be mindful to the greater impacts on wellbeing when making decisions. These decisions could be monthly spending habits, a work promotion, starting a new business, or who to spend time with. As always, questions help:

• What is essential? And what is non essential?
• Is this contributing to my overall joy or happiness?
• What are my intentions behind this decision?
  • Is there a genuine need?
  • Or is it just keeping up with my peer group?
  • Am I chasing more money for the sake or “more”?
  • Is it aligned with my goals or purpose?

A tremendous sense of freedom comes from knowing your intentions and eliminating the non-essential.

More is not always better.