We’re all familiar with “A Christmas Carol.” Ebenezer Scrooge, a mean old rich guy, finds redemption and gives to the poor. He was very wealthy but was miserable before he learned the joy of giving. But would he have been happy poor?
The phrase “money can’t buy happiness” is well-known. However, money buys houses, food, electricity, etc. Yes, you can be miserable rich, but you can’t be truly happy if you’re stressed about making ends meet.
On average, low-income households are less happy. Individuals in those communities live in a high-stress environment. It’s very difficult to be happy when your basic needs are not met. This stress can lead to all sorts of mental and physical illnesses such as depression, asthma, insomnia, diabetes, etc.
Richer countries tend to be happier. For example, Finland is the happiest country in the world while South Sudan is among the most miserable. There is a huge economic difference between the two that contributes to overall happiness. People of a higher socioeconomic status within those countries tend to be happier as well.
Wealthy countries have more money to spend on social programs and resources for their citizens. Impoverished countries worry more about safety and food for their citizens than their emotional well-being. They are not established well enough to focus on both of those things. Since wealthy countries have these resources, it is easier for their people to be happy.
Wealthy people tend to live longer as well. Low-income people do not always have access to essential healthcare resources and consistent meals. This gives them a life expectancy difference of 15 years in men and 10 in women. Higher incomes can increase the life span by over a decade.
Money gives a basis for happiness, but not all rich people are happy. What causes happiness?
As Scrooge discovered, giving back brings happiness. There is a lot of science backing the idea of happiness being directly correlated to giving back to your community. It releases endorphins and positive chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin in your brain giving a “helper’s high.” It boosts our self-esteem and confidence as we make a difference around us.
Also, having friends and a supportive community helps boost happiness. Humans are social by nature. We need to have people we can rely on and talk to. We need people in the stands cheering us on. Without it, there cannot be happiness. We would not have people to laugh and cry with. There would not be people to go to events with or just call on the phone when something exciting happens.
Finding purpose and satisfaction in your life is another way to achieve happiness. What drives you? What are your passions? What do you contribute to the world around you? Knowing the answers to these questions is important. Life is empty if you have no purpose and no goals.
Happiness can be found regardless of your circumstances. It is not an exact science. Low-income people can be happy and live good lives, and rich people can be rude and miserable.
However, having money in your pockets gives you an advantage in living a happy life.
