I spent a lovely weekend getting a glimpse into how the other half lives, which naturally sparked a lively conversation about that age-old question: Can money actually buy happiness?
You’ve probably heard about that well-known study suggesting happiness increases with income up to around $75K (closer to $100K today). After that, it supposedly plateaus.
But as we talked about how money solves problems, provides freedom, and opens doors to new experiences, we started to wonder: Is that still true?
It turns out newer research shows a more nuanced answer.
Yes, money can increase happiness, even beyond that original threshold.
No, it won’t fix everything. It won’t repair broken relationships or resolve inner stress. But having more financial resources can reduce anxiety, expand choices, and allow you to invest in the life you want.
Here’s the catch.
The pursuit of money alone won’t make you happy.
It’s not about chasing more for the sake of it. It’s about using what you earn to support the kind of life that feels meaningful to you.
And that brings up an important question:
How much money do you actually want? And what else matters?
Too many people I work with spend all their time chasing the next raise, promotion, or bonus, only to find they have no energy left for their health, their families, or their friends.
So here’s your nudge to check in with yourself:
You’ve probably heard about that well-known study suggesting happiness increases with income up to around $75K (closer to $100K today). After that, it supposedly plateaus.
But as we talked about how money solves problems, provides freedom, and opens doors to new experiences, we started to wonder: Is that still true?
It turns out newer research shows a more nuanced answer.
Yes, money can increase happiness, even beyond that original threshold.
No, it won’t fix everything. It won’t repair broken relationships or resolve inner stress. But having more financial resources can reduce anxiety, expand choices, and allow you to invest in the life you want.
Here’s the catch.
The pursuit of money alone won’t make you happy.
It’s not about chasing more for the sake of it. It’s about using what you earn to support the kind of life that feels meaningful to you.
And that brings up an important question:
How much money do you actually want? And what else matters?
Too many people I work with spend all their time chasing the next raise, promotion, or bonus, only to find they have no energy left for their health, their families, or their friends.
So here’s your nudge to check in with yourself:
- What are you working so hard for?
- Is your current job aligned with your financial goals and your values?
- Are you leaving space for the life you want to live?
Money can support happiness. But only if you’re clear on what happiness looks like for you.
If you’re ready to take a closer look at your job, your goals, and how to align them with the life you actually want, the Career Checkup is a great place to start. It’s free, and it will leave you with clarity and actionable steps. Grab your spot here.
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