How Important is Money to Happiness?

Happiness is something that everyone seeks, but it is elusive for some. Maybe it is not that it can't be achieved, but rather that we need to adjust our thoughts about what real happiness is. Numerous studies have shown that some of the poorest people are actually happier than the wealthy. One of the reasons is that they have close ties with other people.

Those with a support system of family and/or friends that they can depend on for companionship on a regular basis are happier overall than those who don't have such close ties to others.

Another reason that the poor are happier is that material possessions aren't important to them. Even if they are lacking in what most of us consider to be basic needs, they are happier. Maybe we need to reassess what our needs really are. If we think we need a brand new car and a big house, then we may be chasing the wrong things in life and may never be truly happy.

Are we trying to achieve those things to impress others? The funny thing is that the very people we are trying to impress probably don't even care! They are too busy trying to impress each other. If we are honest with ourselves, we may find that we need to make some serious changes to be truly happy. It all starts with how we really feel.

The first step is to put aside what others may think and examine what is really important to you. If something makes you happy or makes your life easier, then don't change it. These can be small things or big things.

Do you have the latest cell phone that does everything because you really like it or because you think it will impress others? If you use it to surf the web, keep in touch with everyone and keep your schedule at your fingertips, then it may make you happy and it's worth the expense of time and money. If not, a basic phone may make you happier.

Do you drive a Lexus or Mercedes because you think it makes you look successful or do you drive it because you can really afford it and you appreciate the quality? If it's just to impress others and the payments are stretching your budget, then you would probably be a lot happier with a more affordable car. The truth is that most people really don't care what you drive. It's your perception of what others think.

Happiness may not be as far away as you think. Simplify and stop chasing unrealistic expectations. Follow your dreams and what is truly important to you and you will find happiness has always been there waiting for you.