Why Money Does Not Always Make Life Easier
/I wish I had more money.
If I had more money, I'd be less stressed.
More money would fix everything.
I'd be so much happier if I had more money.
You've probably been here at least once before. No matter where you look, a price tag or a sign is designating the amount for the item. You need money to live. You work to make money, and you need that earned money for daily needs and essentials like food and shelter.
And this doesn't include any wants or desires that go beyond your typical day-to-day needs. Money is also necessary if you want to do something fun like go out on a date or plan a vacation. You can't schedule an appointment for your nails or hair or purchase new clothing or shoes without money either.
You may have wondered from time to time if having more money would make it easier for you. Here's why money does not always make life easier.
Money Can't Buy Happiness
No matter how much money you have, you can't buy happiness. Sure, from the outside looking in, having more money may seem like life would be easier, but that's not always the case.
Happiness actually comes from doing the things that you love. Some of your hobbies may involve spending money, but budgeting for these expenses will help you spend money on the things that are important to you.
Another thing that money can't buy is true friends and loved ones. Happiness also involves spending time with people that mean something to you. Being the real and authentic version of yourself will only help you find like-minded individuals to hang out with and build relationships with.
It’s Harder To Feel Satisfied
As with most things in life, there is a balance to everything. There are typically four stages of fulfillment.
Basic Needs: Any item that's needed for survival like food, shelter, or clothing.
Comforts: These types of purchases occur after your basic needs are met. Maybe you need to purchase another outfit for your role. Or maybe it's time to buy a better mattress or pillow to help you sleep better at night.
Luxuries: Luxuries go beyond basic needs and comforts. Luxuries could consist of a new wardrobe, a new car, or even moving from an apartment to a house.
Overconsumption: Overconsumption may happen when buying new things actually takes away from your happiness. Clutter and random items fill your home, and they're not bringing you the same joy you thought they might.
If you're always wondering if the grass is greener on the other side, you're probably not actually aware of what's standing right in front of you. If you're constantly wishing for more money, satisfaction will be harder to meet. You'll always want more and never truly be satisfied with what you already have.
Next Steps
Money can buy a lot of things, but the most important things in your life can't be bought.
If you're struggling with finding happiness outside of money, it's okay. You're not alone. Money is needed in your day-to-day life. It can be easy to become fixated on it.
There are other ways to make your life easier that go well beyond money. Practicing self-care, developing a good schedule and routine, or learning how to say "no" are all great ways to start making your life a little easier.
If you need additional help trying to find ways to help you make your life a little easier, reach out to a therapist for additional support. We'll be able to help you find all of the positives in your life and help you expand on coping mechanisms and tools to help make life easier for you. Reach out to me today to set up a consultation for anxiety treatment to help manage your financial worries.