Does Money Buy Happiness?
98Is there an answer to this, one of life’s great mysteries? Those of us who don’t have much money will probably announce that happiness is not about money at all. That’s because we don’t know any better, having never had the means to try to buy that elusive thing called happiness. So we rely on simpler things to bring a smile to our face and in our heart – a sunset, the laughter of a child, a hug, chocolate.
Those who have a lot of money may also vehemently deny that money has anything to do with happiness; to say anything else will make them sound shallow and materialistic and who wants to be saddled with that? It really isn’t politically correct to admit that money can buy happiness, so we come up with glib alternatives depending on how much of the green stuff we have.
But first, let’s try and understand the meaning of happiness. According to the dictionary happiness is the state of being happy. That means we have to discover the meaning of ‘happy’, and decide what makes us that way. Depending on where you look for the definition, to be happy is to show pleasure or joy or delight or contentment. You get the general picture.
So what makes a person happy? There are quite possibly as many answers to that as there are people. Some of us find joy in simple things that cost nothing or next to nothing, at least in terms of money. A song or a book, a lovingly cooked meal, a relationship that is going well, perhaps the smell of the earth after the first rains. These things fill us with us with an uplifting kind of emotion that we call happiness. There’s a feeling of contentment and for many of us that is enough. Glad to be in the moment, we don’t need to be happier than that.
But for all the people who simply accept happiness like that, there are others that question it – or the lack of it. They want to qualify and quantify the concept; they want tangible proof of the happiness quotient in their lives. And when they think it’s missing or inadequate, they go about seeking it in ways ranging from meditation to past life regression. Money may or may not be needed to buy happiness in this case. Some are lucky to find that elusive something within themselves; others will keep paying through their noses till they find the right guru or therapy to show them the way.
Then there are those who equate happiness with possessions. The more things they have, the happier they think they will be. Another house, a few more cars, rooms full of jewellery and clothes, a corporate takeover. That takes money…a lot of it, and they are quite honest about it. Spending money in the unabashed pursuit of happiness makes perfect sense to these people; after all why make money if it doesn’t make you happy?
This group of people is often subject to the scorn of cynics who refuse to accept that something as crass as money can buy something as lofty as happiness. Money, they intone sanctimoniously, buys only a lifestyle; it cannot buy peace of mind. “What does it bring except ulcers and family feuds,” they sniff fastidiously. True happiness, according to them, is something far removed from the satisfaction that comes from owning things. They might even quote an obscure philosopher or two to make their point.
Sour grapes? It is quite likely that the outspoken cynic has a horrendous mortgage and a high maintenance wife and that he hasn’t been happy in a very long time. But will he admit it? No, because that would mean subscribing to the fact that money can in fact buy happiness.
Have I reached a sensible conclusion at the end of my rambling? Nowhere near it. I don’t think anyone can presume to judge what makes another person happy and what it costs to make him so. Each to his own transaction with happiness.
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Just answering a request, Shal...the first time anyone ever asked me to write a hub on order! Not that I managed to reach any earth shattering conclusions! :D
I would also add that happiness is so transitory. What makes one happy one week does not necessarily make one happy the next week. I know a whole lot of jaded people and it isn't the old...it is the young. To figure out what makes them happy, is quite the eternal conundrum.
I know for some people on hub pages watching the number of hits on their pages rise steadily is their happiness quotient for the day.
Since I get almost no hits, I suppose it is a good thing for me that my happiness isn't tied to this. :P
A rich hub, reading which, has filled me with happiness as always, FP!
What a tremendous last line,'Each to his own transaction with happiness.'
Amen!
Indeed very difficult to define happiness or put a price on it either...
I have personally found my happiest moments with my parents, wife and kids, loved relatives, friends and that had nothing to do with money :-)
I guess you can define materialistic happiness as a separate entity ;-) How happy would you find a person who has bought a degree (as against one who has earned it)?
Oops! I don't want to get carried away :-D
Diana, you are right - happiness is very transient - that's why we need to live in the moment! :)
Glad I contributed to your happiness today, Rashmi! :)
Ravin, you are one of the fortunate ones! As for how happy a person who has bought a degree would be - that brings up a whole lot of other questions! :)
Thanks for reading, all of you.
i find my moments of happiness reading hubs by FP. comes for free and hence money can not etc etc etc etc
Thank you Neelesh. :D
thanks thanks FP- for writing this hub- this question arose frequently in my mind- loved reading it- put some things in perspective- and yes, each to his own transaction with happiness!!
there can be no "one" answer to that question FP- but thanks again for writing it- helped me reach a couple of conclusions
I'm glad you reached some conclusions, billy...it's so difficult to find the 'right' answer to a question like this, isn't it? Thanks for asking it anyway! :)
Money buys comfort ... and I can live with that! I would hate to be uncomfortable and it would make me unhappy - very very unhappy! I honestly have found more negative thinking, crime and low morals among the needy. Money, perhaps as a side product, makes people more God-fearing, helpful and law abiding. But this is my own personal opinion
Money makes people more God-fearing? That's an interesting observation, Ritu! :)
Very thought provoking hub - my favorite type of conversations.:) Its interesting, today I was thinking that I would love to be joyful, not happy, but joyful at least most of the time but life's ups and downs sometimes get in the way. I have heard of sages who no matter what is going on in life or the world, have that state of Joy which is what we really have at core of our being. I better shush up, as I am rambling on and on... LOL. But, yes, each to his own transaction with happiness.
Enjoyed reading this! :)
A continuous state of joy is something that we'd all like to aspire to, but few of us are born to be sages! Thanks for stopping by, VS. :)
I love reading your work, FP. There's a marvelous clarity in it - even with such an illusive topic as happiness. Lots to think about and you managed to put a different spin on it. Far as I know, happiness is no commodity, no entity and even the word triggers different interpretations. It may be one of the most subjective concepts there is. What is it someone has said? Something like, "Happiness is a bird with wings. . . ." I guess so - if one is a bird cage! LOL. I think external things can cheer one but a sense of happiness - or joy - as Violet mentioned - arises from within, rather than descending from "out there" somewhere. It's possibly an extension of the thought that one can view things positively or negatively. They may be bad or good - but "they" only enter one as impressions and ideas, not as things. So they can be filtered, I suppose. Anyway - it is a worthy topic and I like how you handled it. Great work, FP!!!
Thank you Nellieanna! I guess even a bird cage deserves some happiness...hehe! But you're right, I can't think of a more subjective question than what brings happiness. Perhaps if we allowed ourselves to consciously feel happy from within, we wouldn't need to rely on external trappings. Easier said than done, though! :)
Cicero once said that people interpret things in way that benefits themselves the most. Going by that the answer to your question ( Can money buy happiness?) would be as varied as there are people.
Great work Feline Prophet!
Looking forward to seeing you in 100pointers club!
I am jealouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuusssssssssssssssssss!
I want to be able to write like this. And as to your philosophical question, I would rather be happy rich or unhapppy rich. I would hate to be unhappy poor, but happy poor, which is my current state, I can assure you is fine :-))
So you write by special request FP eh? :-)
No doubt Cicero was a wise man! Thanks for reading, keiranthapa and for your good wishes! :)
Ah, DG, my friend, there you are! And shall I continue in a philosophical way and say that riches cannot only be counted in money? If you went by your fans on Hub Pages for instance, you'd be a very wealthy man! :)
And this is the first time I ever wrote by special request - I don't know if I could make a habit of it. Just a lazy cat, you know. :D
Great hub on a subject I have contemplated off and on during the course of a fairly varied life and financial and other circumstances.
I personally think that happiness and money are two completely different things. Never mind the dictionary meanings, my definitions are: Happiness is what brings joy to the heart, a radiance on the face and a smile on the lips; and money is just a sensible way of carrying out the good old barter system. It’s value lies only in its purchasing power, not in its volume, numbers or mass. It can make one happy and unhappy too. Who wouldn’t be happy to have the power to buy whatever he pleases, and who would not be unhappy losing all he has made to fraudsters or to spendthrift, squabbling, ungrateful family members.
Money is not all it takes, certainly not all of the time, to make one happy. Sometimes, to be happy, one needs love from his partner, an appreciative smile from his child, the blossoms on his favourite tree, a run with his dog, or that smell of rain on parched earth. Yet, if and when one is contemplating buying a private jet, owning a house or even just a car or a new gizmo, who wouldn’t be happy to have so much money at hand that the price tag is no consideration at all?
But money has to be managed and handled with wisdom and objective detachment. It has been known to break up and ruin closely knit families or to slip through the fingers to the guiles of smart operators. Making money is comparatively easy. Managing it is a different ball game all together.
Oof, I’ve rambled too much …
Such a pleasure, as always FP, reading anything penned by you!
Hi Feline Prophet! I have always thought that the sum of happiness is contained within stories like this one by Mr. Mike Blackwell:
"...two young sisters, Jewish, separated from the rest of their family, found themselves in this concentration camp. It wasn't unusual for the particular people at that time, but they found themselves in a concentration camp, mom and dad had been separated and they found themselves alone, yet determined to survive. The younger one said, "In order to survive, we have to stay positive and optimistic." The older one said, "Well how are you going to do that?" So they talked about it and they worked through it and they began to work and it worked out for a while but then things got worse as the Allies got closer, the treatment got worse. Many of the young ladies, young women, were beaten, tortured and abused and the younger one said, "We have to stay positive, we have to be thankful for what we have here." The older one said, "What in the world are you talking about?" And so time went on and if things couldn't get any worse by the treatment they got, their dormitory became absolutely crawling and infested with fleas, biting, crawling all over, just absolutely all day long and the older one looked at the younger and said, "What about now?" She said, "Well, we need to be thankful for the fleas." I don't know if you ever thought about being thankful for the fleas or not, but it's interesting that later these two young girls were discovered, they survived and come to find out, of all the dorms that had the women in them, their dorm was the only one where no one was tortured or abused. Now you may wonder why. Well it was interesting because the occupiers, the Nazi officers, didn't want to go in there because of the fleas! So even fleas, at times, if you look at it, even fleas at times can be a blessing."
I think happiness has more to do with gratitude than money. I have known a lot of sour faced rich people.
People are basically happy or unhappy. Happy people will remain that way, whatever the external circumstances. Unhappy people not only will stay that way, they will attempt to pull others into the dismal abyss, regardless of how much money they have.
Namaste.
Does money buy happiness? Would money buy happiness? I love billy's question and your answer, FP. You did that wonderful analysis that you do about the pros, cons, ethics, evils, perceptions of self and perceptions of others.
But I must say, YES! Without reservation. You see, I have a plan for the money. And the fulfillment of that plan would make me very happy. Let it suffice to say that the plan involves others who need money more than I do.
So, I seem to sit at a crossroads of sorts. It would make me very happy to carry out this plan I imagine, but I am also not unhappy about what I've been dealt in my life about money being mostly sufficient but...OH what I would do if I had more of it!
The money would go to, in the proverbial sense, those who put the fish on their tables not because someone gave them those fish, but because they had gotten the fish for themselves.
As always, a very provocative but also sympathetic and eye-opening Hub from you.
Money doesn't buy happiness, but lack of money for basic needs or being in terrible debt does make people miserable!
Great hub, Feline Prophet!
Good to see you here, Jaspal! What a lot of introspection the question of money and happiness provokes...alas it is a fact that a lot of people do equate the two. And a lack of money does tend to make a lot of people unhappy.
Lovely story, Storytellersrus. We do need to be grateful for what we have - perhaps it's exactly what the Universe has designed for us! :)
Deborah, you are so right - people are intrinsically happy or unhappy but refuse to admit it. While the happy ones may not care why they are that way, the unhappy ones will tend to blame external factors.
ST, what a refreshing point of view! All my good wishes - I hope that plan of yours succeeds and may you find all the money you need to put it into action! :)
Lee, the difference between the haves and have-nots has caused a lot of misery across the world...sad, but true.
Thank you all for reading and commenting. :)
I think money as an evil thing is overrated. It can buy you many things like an iPad - if that's what you want - or candy for your favorite child. Money is not the problem, it's mistaking what we want for what we need.
Thanks for sharing another insightful introspection. :D
And thank you for that introspective comment, Chris! But sometimes it's what we want that makes us happy...not what we need! :)
I don't think it can buy happiness but it can provide an excellent down payment at times!
sometimes its just ironic that people who lack money thinks that money can give them happiness and while other who have lots of it lacks the happiness they wish. surely money enables us to experience less misery, we could buy things that can make us comfortable, go anywhere we want but its all just temporary.
A down payment on happiness is an intriguing idea, lender! Thanks for stopping by! :)
Everything is temporary indeed, midnightbliss...that's why I say 'let's live in the moment'. Thanks for reading! :)
Loved it! It's an age old question, and you answered it in the last line. Good job!
Thank you ted122781!:)
From a book I just read and found filled with valuable advice:
As you practice your more positive, better-feeling story, in time your pleasure will become the dominant vibration within you, and then as you couple your pleasure with your means of earning, the two will blend perfectly and enhance each other.
There is no better way to earn money than to do the things that you love to do. Money can flow into your experience through endless avenues. It is not the choice of the craft that limits the money that flows—but only your attitude toward money.
--- Abraham
Excerpted from the book "Money and the Law of Attraction: Learning to Attract Health, Wealth and Happiness" #425
Also, it is well to remember that the Bible says that it is the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil, not money itself.
What sound advice! And it's so true that it's an individual's attitude to money that sets the tone for his relationship with it. Thanks for stopping by, Meg. :)
I strongly feel that money can't buy happiness. I liked your hub and joining your fan club.
Thank you, dealrocker! :)
Hey FP, I was really curious about your hub. Was actually wondering how you would answer this question since it's a question that has not really been answered satisfactorily since, hmmmm, I guess since the inception of money :). Personally, I don't think money buys happiness but then again not having any will not also make one happy. :) At the end of everything, it's not how much money you have, it's how you use it that really matters. Thanks Garfield, I mean Feline Prophet :).
Hehe, emievil, the question hasn't been answered here either! But you make a wise observation - how we use money probably does go a long way in deciding how much pleasure we get out of it. Thanks for dropping in! :)
Quicksand uses simple logic to analyze this case.
Money brings happiness to the poor since the arrival of money heralds a new era into their lives by enabling them to upgrade the quality of their lives. Upgrading the quality of one's life certainly brings happiness. So money does play a great part in creating happiness.
I have come across a few people in my life who say, "Ah! now I have made enough money for my family and myself, and now I don't need to go flat out to make any more." They are content. Their happiness has been caused by the money they have earned. So money does play a part in happiness, right?
As for those who already have plenty of it, their day to day activities often require that they spend the money that they already have. On spending their money, they are certainly not going to spend it on anything that would make them sad ... would they? ... would you?
Got the idea? ... Am I politically right? :)
Your logic is right on the ball, quicksand...simple but so believable! Thanks for visiting! :)
Ah my FFF as yet I have never seen an unhappy lazy cat!
A question I would raise is why would you relate 'happiness' and 'having money'. To me the two should not be related at all!
It matters not whether you are rich or poor,if you are happy!
It matter not whether you are rich or poor if you are sad!
:-)
My FFF congratulations on this Hub reaching 100 score (CLAPS)
Ooooh, has it really reached 100? The things that happen when I'm asleep! :D
Thanks, oh Noble Fox...and let me assure you that I didn't raise the question of money and happiness in the first place - can you imagine a lazy cat staying awake long enough to have such deep thoughts? :D
I believe it really depends. To not have money can bring about an unhappy condition wherein you don't have that energy to obtain the basic necessities of life. On the other hand, too much money, especially where not rightfully earned, will bring about an unhappy person. This is more in the extreme examples though, such as a guy who wins the lottery. Anyway, that's my view on it.
Happiness is a state of being. Money can never buy this, but such a positive state of well being can and will attract prosperity - which can include money (which we all know has no value).
very nice hub! I don't think people are confused as to what happiness IS, but money is a totally different story. some people love money and perhaps replace it with loving themselves and others... there's nothing you can do for them because their love is directed at something external that will not reciprocate it. in that case money will most certainly make those people UNhappy as the grope around outside of themselves, stressing their bodies and minds to acquire something that, in and of itself, will not fulfill them. yet, it never hurts to have money to do what you want :)
great topic to write about and very concise and well written. added you to my followed group... if you want you can check out my hub on a similar topic, its called "Law of Attraction: Following the Feeling", talks a lot about finding happiness in the moment! Thanks for writing!
TylerCapp - I think the guy who wins the lottery is probably a very happy person - a sudden windfall is always welcome! :)
tfhodge - You are so right - prosperity doesn't have to be about money! :)
Andrewskis - Indeed, it never hurts to have money to do what you want - the point is what one wants and how far one will go to achieve it! :)
Thanks for reading, all of you. I notice all three are new visitors - hope to see you again! :)
Feline Prophet ...I think you have covered it well ..I have viewed the fact that ...money does not make you happy. It can appear to be the answer ...but I believe the little things in life will make you happy. The smile of a friend that is glad to see you ...or the grandchild that runs to wrap their arms around you and says please don't leave. Now to me that is happiness.
Good to see your success Feline ...keep up the good work ...my best to you!!
Feline Prophet
Happy is an elusive concept as it appears to be completely internally defined and somewhat situational. Since I think that happy is an emotion, I realize that I cannot be happy all the time any more than I can be sad or angry all the time. But sometimes emotions like panic, or dread, or hopelessness can come when I am having difficulty meeting some monetary obligation.
It is during those times that I most feel that "happy" could come back faster if I had a little extra cash. Here the money actually does not make you happy, but contributes to your sense of well being which clears the way for that laugh, or love, or situation to happen again.
Since happiness is a state of being that comes from inside, it does not depend on external material possessions or money. However, happiness does depend completely on perceptions. Our perceptions of "what would make us happy" are sometimes unrealistic because we tend to build up an expectation based on the unknown or more importantly external control or cause.
Happiness is neither caused nor controlled by things, rather it is an emotion and comes from some internal place. So clearly, money in and of itself cannot "make you happy" it can only be a part of your perception.
Just as being thankful for the fleas is a perceptual optimistic way of looking at the world, so is happiness.
Thank you for the intriguing Hub. I might just have to contribute a couple of hubs on these lines myself.
There is a saying that money is like shoe.If it is tight it makes you uncomfortable, if it is large (excess) also it makes you uncomfortable. Good hub.
Ramkkasturi
I like the saying posted by ramkkasturi :)
Really well done FP, you were very objective about the whole thing, and I had to smile and nod at the "sour grapes" paragraph :)
Personally, money doesn't really make me happy per se, though it allows me the pleasure of certain things that make me happy, if temporarily. I'm fairly certain, however, that the lack of money would NOT contribute to my general state of happiness either.
For me, having some cash is not a determining factor for happiness, but having NONE would be a determining factor for lack of it.
Quite a mouthful, I know :)
Great piece!!! To answer your question - ABSOLUTELY!!! Living in the United States where money is God, being the sole measurement of one's success as a human being, trust me when I say that money = happiness. Without money, the desire to exist fades as the years go by and the thought of the end getting near is welcome. After all, without money...you can do nothing. It's unfortunate, but reality. Being independently wealthy represents true freedom. If anyone out there is rich and disagrees with me...feel free to send some cash my way so I can be happy.
As you said, I think it is up to the people. For some people Money is everything for others it is just needed to buy things and that's all.
gjcody - Makes me really happy to see you after so long! :)
Steve - Like so many other things in life, happiness is certainly a matter of perception. Too subjective really to define. Like you said, it is also 'situational' - there are times when the same thing may not make you as happy as another - it depends entirely on where you are at that point of time. Looking forward to a hub from you on the subject!
ramkkasturi - How right are...and what an apt saying!
Elena - Despite what we may say here, I don't think any of us is as evolved yet as to be completely happy without any money at all! :)
hollywoodjames - That's an honest observation! And money is God in a lot of societies across the world, even though others may not admit it so openly!
bizwoo - Sometimes it's the things that money buys that makes people happy!
Thank you all for visiting. I can see that the eternal question of money and happiness makes a lot of us think about how the two figure in our life! :)
It can secure some of the things that lead to happiness-like a stable roof over your head, good care when you are ill,etc.
Well said, jtrader! Thanks for reading. :)
FP, dudette, this is the SECOND hub in the list of hot hubs! YAHOOOOO to you!
Money can't buy happiness but it means you can be miserable in comfort!
I really do not understand why most people can't see the connection between happiness and money. I know almost everyone thinks relying on money has a source of happiness is evil, but what happens when you get flat broke? In some ways, yes, money play a part in one's happiness. One of these days I'm going to write an article on the "Root Of All Evil"... I think you better check it out.
Money rarely arrives on its own. Usually if you have more money, you also have increased responsibility and pressure and work which can cause stress. Stress certainly doesn't make you happy. I think I would rather be a slightly poorer, care free person who has the time to spend finding happiness with my friends and family.
sarahsherlock,And you think being slightly poorer as you recommend, is going to bring that happiness? What happens when you start worrying about when your next meal is going to come? Look around you, the reason why more money often means more stress and pressure is because the victims are blinded by it. Just like this Hubber says, "there are those who equate happiness with possessions. The more things they have, the happier they think they will be. Another house, a few more cars, rooms full of jewellery and clothes, a corporate takeover money." But to be frank, these people never get happiness;the only thing they get is fear. The more jewelries they buy, the more fancy cars they purchase, something certainly increases and it's definitely not happiness. It's fear. Their taste have increased, so will their fear of losing their possessions. The terror of losing these things often keeps them awake at night: THAT'S WHEN PEACE OF MIND RUNS OUT OF THAT HOME. Hope you understand.
money is source of pain, please give you money to me!
You present a good balance about what happiness is. I like the fact that at the end of your hub you leave the definition opened. Or, at least imply that happiness is more of an individual thing. Well written.
I tried to answer this to another hub question. I do believe money is a form of power however I believe that money is not the highest power (not saying you said that). I don't believe money will ever buy happiness but I believe it will delay depression.
The media creates the illusion that we need more. More food, more clothes, more cars, more this and that, keeping up with the Jones, etc.
I always dreamed if the world would wake up and just see that if we really as a whole helped each other for our true potential and spirit, debt would end and peace and HAPPINESS would be very obtainable.
Debt creates stress, stress creates illness, and illness creates fear, (You can even reverse it and it is true) all of this is designed to enslave and keep those ensnared and far away from freedom. Lack of this and that would make anyone in time become sick and stressed. However we are able to take control and really change within ourselves and forget what the norm says what's going to happen. we can weather our own forecast with other like minded people. strength is always in numbers.
So in short happiness (to me) starts from within and other outside forces can magnify it however having lots of money has little to do with making one more happier. Again it will distract you from other things but what makes you happy starts from within and then next other people and then the simpler things in life (free things) and then the almost free things. Having more money can add to your existing happiness from within but I believe it cannot create happiness. Only what we believe, focus on with passion, maintaining good balance, being responsible and making a difference in life is what really matters and can create happiness. Being poor is not good and being rich is not evil. Balance is the key and money is an effective useful tool, that's it and nothing more than that.
Looking for a free home based business? Look my hubs up on the subject.
HAVE A GREAT DAY!
Elena - I don't think I've ever had that distinction before! Yahoo indeed! :)
Jane - I love that: 'you can be miserable in comfort'! :)
withyouamalive - Having money is not wrong; what we are talking about is whether we tend to pin all our hopes for happiness on it!
sarahsherlock - There are many like you who put less material things over money. More power to you! :)
feguz.com - Hope someone out there is listening! :)
Paul - We just can't generalise about something like this. Each to his own! :)
darryl - Perhaps 'money can delay depression', but does that mean that depression is a given in everyone's life?
Thank you all for reading! :)
Philosophy only brings virtual happiness. :)
Hear, hear! :)
Sigh! Looks like you don't agree with me.
Did that sound like disagreement?!!
What a great hub! Speaking as someone who is poor but happy I must admit I'm not sure I'd want a vast amount of money. A little would be nice though.
Thank you Galaxy! I can see you have your priorities right...considering that one of the things that makes you happy is watching your cats! :)
Undeniably money has a big role to play in one's happiness,but that is the far it always goes!Never for once will it guarantee happiness!! None the less,I prefer to have money and manage the happiness it procures than to be poor and search for both for the rest of my life!!!
I don't believe money buys happiness. I believe it can pay for a peace of mind. It can open you up to allow you to chase after those things that make you happy. I'm pretty happy and don't have a lot of money. What makes me unhappy is sometimes worrying about being able to provide for what makes me happy, my family.
Nice ramblings! Happiness truly is an elusive pursuit.
What is happiness to one, may not be happiness to another. What surrounds us, usually defines our happiness. Circumstances in life play a role in how happy or sad one is. It only takes one situation to make one go from happiness to downright depressed. Many people who have money, are not necessarily happy. The question to me, is how much is enough? How much money does one need to be happy. Donald Trump, case in point, has more money than he knows what to do with. Is he happy? Divorce, problems within his family and business. But, he works to maintain a state of equilibrum that allows him to be, to some extent, happy. Many people do not define their happiness by how much money they have, but BECAUSE of how much money they have. Money allows them to do things that make them happy. Happiness can also be a state of mind, you can choose to be happy, or you can choose to be miserable. The choice is individual. What you do with the money you might have also can bring you happiness. You can share your wealth, and bring feelings of accomplishment to oneself. Or you can choose to hoard your hard earned money for future occassions. Many people are happy with just a few dollars and many friends and family. While others delight in the thrill of making more money. It is a challenge in today's society to keep the flow of money into ones bank account to a predifined measure.
Philosophy can bring self awareness which can lead to changes in one's life that can lead to happiness. In the end, the individual is responsible for their happiness. Be it with financial or emotional success. The blame or good feelings always rests with the individual.
Great hub feline. This is a global issue, which stands in the way of progress. Real progress, anyway. Please keep up the great insite.
money doesnt buy happiness,however it does help you live the way you want to live.
Elusive yes, impossible no.
GOod question and to just the right cat :) DOn't think money can buy it, but it can help ;)
Vision14410 - I like your attitude! :)
Wayne - A lot of people can be happy without a lot of money, but we have to face up to practicalities like the well being of our families.
U Neek - The fun is probably in the pursuit! :)
nfarr2 - It's certainly an individual thing and there can be no generalising on this subject. Like you said, what makes one happy may not apply to another. We all have to find our own answers! :)
Juelstephen - It is a universal issue, isn't it? Troubles everyone, wherever we may live!
optimus - The difficult part is deciding when you have enough!
Troy - It can certainly help. A cat needs money to buy lasagna after all! :D
Thank you all for reading, and for your comments. :)
Hi Feline Prophet! I feel money and happiness are sometime antonyms and sometime synonyms. It's just about how we take it. I liked your hub and style of writing. Joining your fan club and would like to invite you too.
Thank you FashionFame. It's all about whether we are looking for antonyms or synonyms, isn't it? :)
So beautifully written!
Thank you IdeaMorphist! :)
very good hub!
Definitely, happiness is priceless! Happiness can't just be bought by any amount. Success can maybe a choice but happiness could only be a chance...
Wonderful hub feline! You made me rethink about the said thing.
Happiness is both priceless and free, thus it cannot be bought by money or bartered by anything. Money can make you comfortable, which helps the happiness quest.
great hub fantasitc... money dont by love just nice things...
i do wish i had enough money just so i never had to worrie about never having enough to live... money still makes the world go round but if every1 was rich then we wouldnt exsist as if we all had money who would work and do things for others...
I have several friends that are self made millionaire, and some are very happy while others hate their life. It really comes down to family, experiencing life, and working everyday not to make decisions you will regret tomorrow. If you have a few million in the bank, but you kids are crack heads you will have no peace, so it is important that when looking at money you see it as something that is nice, and can make life easier, but by itself is not the key to happiness
Very interesting!
Thanks how-to-dance!
jamesbrownbete - Happiness is indeed priceless! Thanks for stopping by!
FGual - True happiness should be free - we have enough other things to pay for! :)
Zreeves - Valid point. What a weird world it would be if everyone were rich! :)
abigail - The Universe often seems to balance things out. If it gives some a lot of money it gives others things that can't be measured in money! :)
Thank you Mike!
I agree with Abigail33. It all depends on family life. However, going the other way and being in debt seriously with not enough money to pay the bills can lead to enormous amounts of stress which tends to disrupt harmony in the family and can lead to very unhappy times.
I guess the difficult part is to decide how much money is enough! Thanks for reading, The Load Arranger.
"Some of us find joy in simple things that cost nothing or next to nothing, at least in terms of money. A song or a book, a lovingly cooked meal, a relationship that is going well, perhaps the smell of the earth after the first rains. These things fill us with us with an uplifting kind of emotion that we call happiness. There’s a feeling of contentment and for many of us that is enough. Glad to be in the moment, we don’t need to be happier than that"
You said it right. Thanks
Money Cannot Buy Happiness. Really?
1. An unemployed man (with dependant wife and children) who survives on food stamps and lives under a constant fear of losing his rented apartment just because he has enough money to pay his bills for one month.
2. A minor child who is compelled to quit school and work, on a meager daily wage, for providing food to his younger siblings.
continue at:
Wonderful hub FP. You have a very engaging writing style, love it!! Coming to the question, well, I've thought about this many times too. There is really no one answer to it - it depends on the individual and his/her outlook towards money and its importance in giving them happiness!!
Voted up and branded 'beautiful' - i.e., the cool new feedback feature the HubPages Team rolled out! Thanks for this hub :)
jacobkuttyta - Thanks for reading. There can be no one answer to the question - it's completely subjective, depending on a person's circumstance and attitude.
Thanks shil! That was a lovely thing to do! :)
Most of the research done seems to indicate people in less wealthy countries are happier.....ie (Costa Rica) I think you need a basic level of income after that the rest is up to you!
This is a great hub, written very well. I must admit, I started off reading all the comments, but there were so many I had to give up! So, can money buy happiness? Personally, I think real happiness can only come from within, from seeing beauty within the things around you and seeing the glass as half full, rather than half empty. Happiness really is a feeling, an uplifting feeling in the heart or whatever - and, as i think has already been said, you can feel happier about things one day, and less happy about exactly the same things the next day, which just reiterates that your happiness or lack of it is internal.
However, probably it might be hard to be happy without adequate housing, food etc. And of course, money can often help you to achieve things that are important to you - not just material things, but perhaps to follow a certain career or travel to a certain place or something. Last night I was watching a programme called Blood, Sweat and Luxuries, which portrayed the lives of gold miners in Ghana - they had no choice but to do this awful work, hour after hour, day after day, for very, very little money, and there were no other jobs to do. The workers interviewed said that their lives were not at all happy; they didn't enjoy life at all. The manager of the mine, who was also poor, said that all he wanted was an education which could lead him on to better things 'and then he would fly'.
So, I suppose, happiness certainly does depend on individual perspective. And when you get into it, it's quite a hard question to answer. :)
hell naw because when you find some one who can be sweet and special to you then thats all you want even if they have money or not.
scottyy11 - I agree that one needs a basic level of income to take care of all the necessities - after that it's a purely individual thing how much more money each person needs to keep him happy! Thanks for stopping by!
Polly - It's always easier for those who have money to say it's not important. There are so many on this planet who don't have even the basics - and they would probably laugh at the question anyway! Thanks for your thoughtful comment. :)
april - What a lovely observation! Thanks for reading!
Happiness is priceless. However, it is accessible to poor as well as the rich. "Money" was created as part of a barter system. It is simple way of exchanging goods or services. People have corrupted human values thinking that they can be bought.
Money buys love, turns out to be "prostitution". Money buys loyalty, is another way to say "slavery". Moneys buys happiness, creates an "addict" looking for the next fix. These are very simplified statements, but I think you get the point.
can money buy happiness? literally, no. can money make
people happy? maybe, but definitely not all of the people. well.. the question varies from people, depends on his/her current status, lifestyle, family status, age, etc. but, money is something we used for our needs and eventually our wants in life. the topic is very general to consider, for it may take effect the beliefs of others that money is the most important thing in life that we should have. hmm.
let me think about that. haha
Top class people who spent millions in charity counts, but its not the money who makes the rich guy happy. its the willingness to give/share and the urge to do good. I gotta say, i would like to talk about more of these until tomorrow. haha. nice hub!
Mike - You're so right - money has indeed come a long way from its basic purpose. Perhaps we might have been better off sticking to the barter system! Thanks for your comment! :)
calisurge - Yes, quite often it's the willingness to share money that creates happiness! Thanks for reading! :)
I have been rich, I have been poor... in terms of owning things and not having a pot to throw out a window... Happiness is permeated within. It is systemic... I tried to buy happiness. I learned the hard way money will not even "rent" happiness. Perhaps my most powerful learning experience has been: I have learned possessions, or lack of "things" do not define who YOU are. If we have learned to respect ourselves, the rest is easy... A great joy is to look in a mirror and to experience a sense of respect and love for the image looking back... An image that knows me intimately and still loves me... notwithstanding my "warts," strengths, accomplishments and self-perceived failures. The process has given me an opportunity to learn "failure" is a definition to an event. What others sees as "failure," I may see/use as a stepping stone, rather than a stumbling block...
For me, i think that money can help me to be more happy. Sometimes I do not have any use for money. But when I see how money can be used to do positive things it really makes me happy.. I think of various stuff that can be achieved if money is used in the positive way.
Money does not buy happiness but it sure makes life a lot easier.
Hedonic Adaptation sets in. There was a study of lottery winners in the 70's.. it was found that although the winners were happy, their happiness returned to the same level a few months later..
You know the expression "A dog is for life, not just for Christmas"? It suggests that the excitement will invariably wear out.
On a useless information note, Happy is derived from the Norse word "Hap" meaning 'Good Luck'..
I enjoyed reading this article, thankyou!
money gives you the choice - it doesn't always make you happy
kellydove - You seem to have reached a definite conclusion! I wish more of us could do that! :)
dallas93444 - Thank you for sharing your experience. You are lucky that you have been able to understand that true happiness is really not dependent on external factors. All the best to you. :)
memaskman - Using money to do positive things would bring happiness to a lot of people. Unfortunately it's not always used for the well-being of others less fortunate than oneself.
mikicagle - Indeed it does! :)
Dean - Does the principle of diminishing returns apply to money, I wonder? Does money lose its value after a while? Thanks for the 'useless information' - there are many who consider that having money is a matter of luck! :)
Thanks for reading, dansmith86.
jondav - Yes, it gives us the choice to do things that might not otherwise be possible.
Thanks for reading, all of you! :)
Hey Feline Great read. I really enjoyed the different views. Money is lost, nothing is lost, it is stuff, it can be replaced, health is lost something is lost, virtue is lost, all is lost. The love of money is wicked. It does not fix you. Where ever one goes one must take themselves. Temporary fix. For me, Joy is a gift no one can steal, rob or destroy unless you hand it over. I like what Paul says in 2 Timothy. You will find it in my story if interested.
to Love Larger. I need money but I have more joy then I have had in my life. I make less then I have made in my life and I am full of more love and peace.
My needs are supplied. I am Blessed with many of my hearts desires. Money is a good thing, it does bring a smile digging in a fat wallet. I like stuff and I have plenty and I have much less.
You would want to live on my block if I had the bucks to pass out. I Thank God, he is awesome. He is the way truth and life. He is on the throne. He has an amazing delivery system and it works.
Love n Hugs Feline. Great Writing.
It is obvious your hub got me reflecting. Love it.
Thank you skye2day! I think you hit the nail on the head - money lost can be replaced - it may not be easy but it can be done. Other things may not be so easy to replace.
No, but it doesn't hurt
great article
that's good
I believe that it can be a partial route to happiness, but it won't necessarily make you happy completely. There are some obstacles and problems in life that no matter how much money you have, it just can't buy you out of it. Although, it would be nice to not have to worry about bills, car expenses, and all that.. I think it would make be a level or two happier than I am now. Thanks for the great article!
Thanks for reading, dobo700, ineveryoneheart, and qing123! :)
Origin - Wouldn't we all love to not worry about bills? It would take us all to at least a basic level of happiness, perhaps? Thanks for reading! :)
Probably not, but knowing that you have a stack of cash to fall back on when life goes nuts has to help.
Money and love have been in competition with each other since who knows when. But, they can both have the same affect on our fragile minds. Often money wins but the true losers are the ones who choose it instead of love. Love lifts us up and frees us. Love makes us forgiving and understanding. Love connects us with each other and all the things we are passionate about. It gives us faith and it humbles us. The very thought of love as an idea gives us peace. Money on the other hand makes us corrupt. It is used to deceive us and bring us to our weakest before our enemies. Ironically, so does love. But anyone who knows loss of any kind can tell you that love is everlasting, even through our deepest sorrow. The world tells you that having money is so very important, but what does your heart tell you? It’s true, all you need is love.
StopDrafts.com - Thanks for reading! :)
eli grey - 'love is everlasting, even through our deepest sorrow'...hold that thought! Thanks for stopping by. :)
A question worth asking.
By the way nice read!
Thank you Write and earn!
Hello
I would have not found your Hub on money and happiness unless I had been accidentally redirected here from my Hubpages. Well, anyway, I am here and your story was great. Thanks.
Thanks for stopping by on your journey, World-Traveler! :)
Oh damn, I forgot to sign in, never mind, I am going to comment anyway.
Personally, I find happiness within the people I know, those that take the time to listen and laugh with you. It's the people I know, young and old that brings me the greatest happiness.
Well deserved 100 !!
Good to see you here, Ali, and thanks! May you always be surrounded by people like that! :)
I was most unhappy when I was the wealthiest. I really enjoy being middle class!
That's honest! Thanks for reading, habee! :)
Happiness seems to be mostly a state of mind. I think happy people can be from all socio economic classes.
When we are happy, money is a useful tool, a commodity that can be used to help your family and others.
Happiness is indeed a state of mind more than wallet! Thanks for stopping by earnesthub!
money can't buy happiness but it can sure make life easier
And does an easier life lead to happiness? Thanks for stopping by, mikicagle!
thats true, no one can buy happiness.
No, money doesn't buy happiness. But try to be happy without having any money at all. That's hard to do.
Money doesn't buy happiness, but it can "cushion" unhappiness. I don't think that having everything you want will make you happy. You will just want more of the feeling of getting what you want which is a cycle that cannot go on forever.
Now, having someone who truly cares about you and who you truly care about to share your money with--well, that sounds like happiness to me.
Or using money to help others. That makes you feel great!
Actually, I take that back. Money does buy happiness :)
askpowers - And yet so many try!
Grills Guy - Having no money doesn't suit everyone, that's for sure! :)
Chris - If only everyone had such noble thoughts! :)
Thank you all for reading!
Thanks for writing the article. Having been both rich and not so rich...
Rich is easier.
Not so rich is a great way to find out who you really are.
Thought provoking and well done.
Look forward to following further articles.
K9keystrokes - Not so rich is probably the true test...makes one think about whether one is happy with what one has or if there's something lacking. Thanks for stopping by. :)
I have been poor and I have been not poor. So I can tell you without fear of contradiction, that not poor is much better. Was I happy when I was not poor? Of course, it's nice to be able to buy what you want and not just what you need.
Was I happy when I was poor? Yes, I was, because I didn't know I was poor. Happiness comes from within and only you, can feel whether you are happy or not.
But there is one thing money can not buy (old joke here). Money cannot buy poverty.
Can this question be answered simply with a "yes" or a "no." I'm inclined to believe it isn't...but if I had to pick one side of the fence I'd definitely say, "No, money can't buy you happiness."
depends where you live. If you live in Australia or England you have access to free health care. If you live in other countries money buys you health care. Health is the most important thing. If you dont have your health you have nothing. So for me money doesnt buy happiness outright but it affords you the opportunity to buy health insurance.
Thanks for this Hub, many great comments here.
Isn't it interesting that you can have enough cars, houses, friends, lovers, children, food, and even money. But there is one thing you cannot save, once its spent is gone for ever! Time. Spend it well! Blessings.
Emily - Working towards happiness can be quite fulfilling!
drbj - Money cannot indeed buy poverty! That's something one has to earn for themselves! :)
askjanbrass - There is no simple answer to the question. And the answer may vary at different times in one's life.
solar.power - You make a very pertinent point. Health is certainly more valuable than wealth!
BL Tween - Yes, time is precious and some might think chasing happiness is a waste of a precious commodity. Much better to live each day as it comes.
Thank you all for your comments. :)
Money is necessary but is not all that we need to exist. Happiness with no money at all is almost impossible, for it could mean a miserable life. I think one needs money to have financial freedom but to gain happiness depends much on what we expect in life, learn and treat others.
VanHid - Only very uni-dimensional persons will rely completely on money for happiness, but I guess there are some of those around too. Thanks for reading! ;)
In all honesty It buys happiness with material goods, there is a different happiness you can find on your own, a more content feeling of life and relaxation if you will
jrich1935 - You're right, material goods don't make everyone happy. For some it's simple things that bring a smile to the face. Thanks for reading! :)
I enjoyed reading your hub thanks for posting it!
there's a lot of things that money can't buy and one of them is happiness. nice post thanks.
State of happiness is a state of freedom. All living creatures (sentient beings) are only suffering from the sense of slavery, bondage, restriction of any kind (physical, mental or spiritual). So state of happiness to me (and I believe for all people) is a state of non-bondage, i.e. freedom. Can money buy a state of freedom?...Obviously for many people it is true. For instance, if you sent few thousand follars to starving children in africa and they have food for couple of months, - does it make them and their parents happier?? Of course it does! Than who dares to say that money didn't buy them happiness??...well, this is almost infinite subject to discuss..
id love to be rich and it would definitely make me a lot happier!
deancortez044 - Thanks for reading!
Thank you , blackhatworld!
Kreon48 - I think we all aspire to freedom of some sort. And freedom from hunger and poverty could be a powerful cause of happiness for some. Thanks for stopping by!
ldparker10 - All the best to you!
what I noticed is that most of people who say that money is not important are those who give away much less (if at all) than those who believe money to be important. It is sad fact of life.
Yes, a lot of people tend to get attached to their money, Kreon48! :)
The only way to have happiness and no money is to have other people in the same situation as you are.
Also, having a lot of money but no one to share your life with would possibly be equally sad for most people.
Having enough money to do what you wish to do with your life is what I find a good middle path.
Thanks for reading lareth. It isn't always easy to find the middle path but maybe we can try to enjoy the process.
Excellent hub! It can go both ways i know alot of people that have money and they are not happy some are darn right miserable and i know alot of people that do not have money and they are very very happy people. I t just depends on what kind of person you are on the inside. Anyway that is how i feel.
How true, vickymom64 - there can be no one truth for all. Thanks for reading!
yeah...but if there can be no one truth for all, then why are we discussing this trying to find an answer?...or do we need an answer at all? or we just wanna chit-chat? :-\ ?
Yeah, it can. The going rate is $500/kg !
But seriously, even though we do get a daily feed to "money-can-buy-a-bed-but-not-sleep" mails, the hard fact is it can & usually DOES !
Some of the sure-fire ways of being happy:
1) If you have enough money ( yes, that's correct) to meet all your basic needs.
2) If you have enough to indulge in occasionally-very occasionally, maybe.
3) If you have enough money to make a positive difference to other person's life (without making your own any worse)
4) If you have more money than your neighbor! ;)
Your subject caught my eye..
I feel money CAN buy some happiness like material things, a nice house, and have less stress WORRYING about how to pay bills..
But many times money does NOT buy happiness, for one could live in a beautiful luxury apt, but if they don't have friends or family willing to come by and visit, it becomes a prison (SEE MY ARTICLE: A LIVING NIGHTMARE).
Thanks!
Kreon, thank you for checking back here...I don't have the answer, but it's interesting to read other people's views.
LogicalSpark - You do live up to your name, but I think your last point may actually be the defining one for a lot of people! Thanks for reading. :)
schoolgirlforreal - Thanks for reading. I shall go over and read your article too! :)
I have one good question for everyone. What good would all the money in the world do for one when they have nobody else to share it with? I'd still be very lonely with all the money and noone to share with. I think people make people happy. Money is only a necessity for survival. Survival doesn't bring happiness, it just keeps you alive. Happiness is something that must come from within, and it is intangible. A lot of people think that tangible things bring happiness when it is the intangible things that bring happiness.
Very well put, Rookie70. Money talks, but it's not good company, is it?! Thanks for reading!
To put it simply, money is a Power. Just like Water or fire are also a power of their kind and can be used both for good and for destruction. It depends in whose hands is the power accumulated. Yet, I wouldn't agree with Rookie70 that survival doesn't bring happiness. Especially if it is a survival of your loved one. If one has enough money to pay for urgent operation or to pay a ransom for a kidnapped family member, which results in SURVIVAL of the loved one, then definitely money did bring happiness. But again, it is just unpersonified (but neccessary) power, which can be used both ways.
Kreon, you have just made the same point that I made by saying "Especially if it is a survival of your loved one," but in other words. Why don't you comprehend my statement first before you form an opinion? What you didn't get was, "What good would money do if you HAVE NOBODY TO SHARE IT WITH?" And then you began your statement with "I wouldn't agree with that, but then you end your statement with the same point I made. On the other hand, I wouldn't agree with you if survival is the only thing that makes a person happy. If that's how you feel, I feel sorry for you. There's a big world out there, maybe you should get around a little more.
nice hub. I think money only comes into the picture when one equates (or confuses) 'success' with 'happiness'. If one wants true happiness, it has to come from within, not externally... and the best example is the way a little child lives his or her life!
daniel, you are quite right - a lot of us equate success with happiness - and there doesn't have to be a connection between the two. Thanks for visiting! :)
"Have I reached a sensible conclusion at the end of my rambling? " I think you have when you proved the point that everyone has their own way of being happy. I personally think that to be happy most of the time, you do need some money.
As I always say...each to his own! Thanks for reading, music2electro. :)
this is a great hub
Thank you, DaMan92!
My goodness, so many comments! I can see why you could not come to a definite conclusion. What makes one person happy might make another person miserable. A nice hub!
I still can't figure out an answer!! Thanks for dropping in, mysterylady! :)
Yes, money does buy happiness. If a person is wealthy, he/she has more lifestyle choices and freedom than if he/she is poor. Things are expensive today and one needs to be wealthy to afford a half-way decent lifestyle.
But is a decent lifestyle a guarantee for happiness? I guess it's a matter of choice. Thanks for reading, gmwilliams!
I read a quote one time that went something like "happiness is a memory, not an event" and I have to say I think there's some truth to it! I look back at times in my life and long to be that happy again - but then when I think about it logically, remember that I wasn't that happy at all, it's just how I remember my past because I guess it is human nature to remember the good and eventually forget the bad.
How true, PurpleOne...it's all a matter of perception and even that changes with time! Thanks for reading. :)
Whoever said money doesn't buy happiness never had to worry about going without it.
You could be right, steven! Thanks for stopping by.
Great Hub. I agree with the statement that money do not buy happiness, i am learning many things about happiness, and I know: the truly happiness has nothing to do with possession, power, fame.
But.... an economic security is important. Those who is worried about money, those who must think of their economic situation, those who have not enough money to live, can not be happy. They can not have dreams, can not enjoy a book, can not relaxing, can not take a journey, can not dedicate to their passions.
Therefore I say: money do not buy happiness, but happiness is not possible without money. This is my throught.
You're right fucsia...worrying about lack of money can be a real dampener. I guess we have to work towards being happy with what we have. Thanks for reading. :)
this is intresting hub
Thank you!
If someone is a great deal of neurogenic pain, for instance, there is little to help with the pain - to be pain free is something to be valued beyond price. There are many instances when a great deal of money adds or can add little to someone's happiness. Others, particularly those lacking life's basics, will have their lives improved greatly as will be their happiness with just a little more money.
There is a lot or research that tells us much that removes individual speculation on the topic of happiness.
There is much value on each of us thinking about the topic so that we do reflect on the topic - reflecting on life is one suggestion that is often made for living a happy life.
I enjoyed your reflections.
kethyjewel, than you for reading and commenting! :)
Sembj, this is one of life's eternal dilemmas, and such a subjective one. Each of us does have our own answers! Thank you for reading! :)
In my humble opinion money never buys happiness but it can certainly buy many other useful and necessary things.
Excellent hub. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for reading, Nicolas! I guess a lot of people need those things to be happy! :)
Interesting read. I don't think money buys happiness but it certainly removes a level of stress making happiness easier to achieve by other methods.
Money cannot buy happiness. Please if anybody see where money buys happiness, let that person contact me.
pcdriverupdate - money can indeed remove material and mental stress to an extent...whether that makes anyone happy is another question!
crystolite - you might be surprised at how many people think that money is the answer to their problems!
Thanks for reading, both of you! :)
Money can bring short-term happiness but over time you find that long-term happinees is created from the inside-out.
Nice post :-)
Thank you for reading, johnwhiteman1! :)
Awesome hub! It made sense and made me question what makes us happy. I have a poorly paid job at the minute, but it gives me enough money to get through the weeks. I don't have as much as some of my ex-school mates who have new cars, and their own flats (I'm 18 btw), but it does me fine. I'm still happy with my girlfriend and in the position I'm in!
Money doesn't buy happiness, the closest it will come is being able to fund some form of venture to find happiness.
You have the right attitude, Ryan-Palmsy! I wish you luck...and happiness. :)
Thanks for reading.
Great hub. i can tell from experince that money does not technically buy happiness...but it does make being miserable a whole lot easier to bear
Thanks for reading, WWW!
I loved reading this and especially appreciated your conclusion. Everyone is different. My thought, to just add to what a few hundred others have said, is that money doesn't buy happiness, it buys security. For those who do not feel secure because they have known want, money equates to happiness because it offers security. This is Suzi Orman's philosophy. money + need = security. Once life changes and individuals feel secure, money and security can help with contentment and happiness, if people keep a spirit of thanksgiving for that security in their hearts. Money in and of itself is just a thing. Isn't that why so many of us are on HubPages?
Thank you for stopping by and commenting, wannabwestern. I guess a lot of people tend to confuse security with happiness...and who are we to judge them? Each to his own...and may we all be happy! :)
Fe, I was looking for your recent hub and forgot I had already read this one, until I saw my comment, lol. I reread old hubs of mine and don't even remember writing some of them. Oh dear- is this old age???
Anyway, reading it now, in a state of no money, I still believe money has little to do with happiness but a lot to do with energy levels. Not having money drains dreams and courage when it wears one down over time, I believe.
I once wrote a hub called Money is Love, by which I meant where we send our money reflects what we care about. So when no money comes in, the opposite feeling is achieved, the feeling of being unloved.
It is this perhaps, that connects money with happiness, because love can bring most happiness.
I don't remember writing many of my hubs too...we're all sailing in pretty much the same boat! :D
I suppose not having money when you are used to having some is a much worse situation than never having had any. But if we remember that everything is cyclical...every down has an up...then it's easier to stay positive. And the love never stops. :)
Fe, perhaps you are right! I personally have survived on very little money most of my single life- until age 32- which makes times like this easier. I am not one for manicures and Hair appointments and shopping at any level. Give me a book and I am generally content! Hugs!!!
Well said, Storytellersrus. I wish there was a 'like' button here! :)
I believe you must work at being happy, just like anything else. It doesn't come automatically or without some effort or commitment!
Very true, RetailRich! Thanks for reading! :)
I do not think that money can 'buy' happiness. There are a lot of rich persons out there who are very unhappy. For me, happiness is having good health, shelter, food to eat, enough money to take care of my needs and having my family around. Happiness is having love. Beautiful hub. Keep sharing
I think your definition of happiness is just perfect! Thanks for stopping by, Dr. Ope! :)
I personally don't believe that money can buy happiness..I think happiness is something each of us must discover on our own... me personally give me a way to cook and some ingredients and I am one happy camper!!
What a wonderful way to find happiness! Bon appetit, AKNorling, and thanks for reading! :)
May I add to your long list of comments? I love your writing. It's clear and concise but at the same time, you add feelings to the mix. Thank you for an awesome read. I'm new here at HubPages and I'm enjoying wandering around the site and getting to know some writers. Thanks again!
Carol
Welcome to Hub Pages, Carol! And thank you for reading and commenting! :)
Great Hub!
Terse, but thoughtful! The only happiness I feel (or would feel because I'm working in an MLM) is getting to the top of the career and giving back to the community. If I were a multimillionaire, I'd move back to NJ to support my old school, which teaches those with special needs like autism (which I myself have). If I feel really good, I'd take some of them to a cruise! That's right - A CRUISE! Also, I'd donate to the school each month!
Great hub I have lived a rich life a poor life and everything in between I learned to be content with what I have and make the best of it thats were my happiness comes from.
Thank you, Nare Anthony! :)
talfonso - More power to you! I wish you luck. :)
jasper420 - What a wonderful attitude! :)
Thank you all for reading and commenting.
Money has nothing to do happiness. For me its about good health, love, having enough to fulfill my needs(not desires), friends who are fun to be with and spirituality.
Happiness is all about creating a balance between material life and spiritual life. Both the aspects are equally important.
How true, birdslover. To each his own definition of happiness...as long as it makes you happy! Thanks for reading! :)
Might as well be happy then! :)
Comments keep bringing me back :D
Haha...do keep coming back...makes me happy! :)
I also become happy to see you kitty! Inviting you to me :D
Your hub hit a lot of my buttons. It was a great hub! Voted up! It is a lot to take in for me personally. I appreciate what you have written here! Thank you!
of course it does! who says NO is defiantly trying to satisfy himself with these words that claim that money doesn't!
money brings u EVERYTHING!
Thank you, iamaudraleigh! This is a topic that seems to evoke as many different reactions as there are readers! :)
nearlife90, I can see you feel strongly about this! Thanks for reading! :)
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Thank you!
Depends,sometimes It could be ..Thanks for informative post
For me money buys happiness .... because if once beggary knocks at your door .... happiness escapes through window .....
This is a great debate topic and one in which I have discussed alot. In my opinion. I do not think money is the key to happiness. One of the reasons I say this is because I have evaluated how many famous people (who presumably have all the money they will ever need) are not really happy or do not live stable lives. If you look at these "stars" they are in and our of rehab, get divorced at higher rates, have other people raising their children and can never seem to settle down. Given that they have so much money one might think they would be inclined to be happy but on the contrary, they are just the opposite. The way I see it they are using money as a substitution for happiness. The true root of happiness lies within ourselves and no amount of money can make us feel truly happy unless we make those changes willingly.
I would say that life is about people and giving to people and the connections you make with others buys you happiness.
Good though-provoking article though.
Check out mine here: http://newyork204.hubpages.com/hub/Cable-Televisio
htodd - Thanks for reading and commenting! :)
Jave Programs - May beggary never knock on your door! :)
jenntyl99 - It's strange but true that so many wealthy people seem to be truly unhappy. It's probably making the money that makes them happy - once they have it, they're not sure what to do with it! :)
Newyork294 - Making others happy is certainly a surefire way to happiness! :)
First, I must appreciate your thoughts and deep niche of writing.
But I think alone money can not buy you happiness. Happiness is something related to satisfaction and which cant be attained through money.
I have seen many rich people who are not happy in their life. How can you justify this?
Money may not buy happiness, Feline, but does allow you to enjoy your happiness more. ;)
I do agree with your statement Keith. With money you can enjoy your happiness but cant buy it.
With a lot of money comes its share of responsability and paranoia. Of course money helps you to buy more things, but it doesn't buy sanity, health and happiness. The downside of being wealthy is you never know if people like you for you or for your money. Remember a friend in need is a friend indeed. Great Hub Feline, and amazing comments everybody!!
No! Money makes you a slave of it because you want more and more. The rich people I have known only think of money, how they can make more, and all their time is wanting more. Even knew a rich bar owner in Alaska that told the minister he wanted to be "saved" how much does it cost? True story.
I think happiness comes from many factors other than money (different for every person, but probably includes successful relationships/career), but being able to be comfortable and having the things that you need and want can make happiness a bit easier. I think a big problem though is that people tend to live up to their income level. So, someone making $20k/year may feel like they are out of reach of having some of the things they need and someone making $100k/year might feel exactly the same way - just the things they think they need have changed. Interesting...
amanthkr01 - It's not up to us to justify anyone else's life. Do what makes you happy!
KeithTax - True, money can make things a little easier, and there's no disputing that!
trainer ben gamon - I guess the really rich always worry about being liked for their money. That's a risk they have to take!
Heather1956 - There must be a lot of people who think like that bar owner - unfortunately!
LauraGT - It's all a matter of perspective, isn't it?
I'm always amazed by the responses this hub generates. Thank you all for reading and commenting! :)
Each to his own transaction - you got it there, buddy. I think some folks might actually find happiness for ever with material things purchased with the green stuff. I think others, however, brought up or influenced in school a different way may scorn dollars and have a pail full of things they claim will bring happiness - and may very well do so. The premise of the article however is valid- don't trash cash, it could be the answer. Nice hub. And nice reaction to it- I know why it is 100.
john000 - You're right, the idea is not to trash cash at all. Who can say what floats another person's boat? Thanks for stopping by! :)
Well written and so true! I find as I get older that it is the "little" and "insignificant" things that bring me the most joy. I have never been materialistic, but I find that I need less "things" in my life and more "doing" and I am much happier that way!
No, money does not buy Happiness but if you satisfied from your life then you can do every things and rest of things leave on god .
You are a good writer.
I don't think this will ever be answered. I applaud you in not being married to one or the other. It takes a lot of courage for someone to admit they don't know. And I do not believe money buys you happiness...but you DO need enough to survive and to do what you want to do with your life. It can be a helpful piece of the puzzle.
You make a number of interesting points demonstrating both sides of the issue. All I can say is I do not have a lot of money....but I am happy. That being said, it would make me happier I believe if I had more money so that I could travel to the many places of the world that I have not. As far as having a lot of material possessions I do not have a need for those so in my life, they do not make me happy or unhappy. I like having 'things' but what I treasure most is my close personal relationships.I do believe that some degree of wealth does contribute to happiness as one is not forever trying to figure out how to pay living expenses and other essentials.
The definition of happiness differs from one person to another. In my case, I can be happy as long as my family is complete. However, I could not deny the fact that I would be happier If I have more money since I would be able to do more things in life. I think the bottom line is that, we just have to be contented with what we have as of the moment but we should not stop dreaming and working for greater things in life.
jpifer - I find I need fewer things too, and that is so liberating! :)
cost-segregation - 'Leave it to God' sounds like a good idea! :)
skinsman82000 - Few of us can scoff at money. It's just deciding how much we need that raises all these questions! :)
pstraubie48 - I wish I had the resources to travel the world too! But I'm pretty happy even otherwise! :)
extended-stay - Great philosophy! I wish you luck! :)
Thank you all for reading and for your thoughtful comments!
certainly, you can buy happiness! happiness is skin deep... but you can never buy joy..
You cant buy happiness but you poverty can also not buy happiness for you :)
Yes money can buy anything but happiness. It a subject of vide discussion.Thanks for sharing such things.
Maybe not but it comes pretty damn close! Voted up. Excellent hub.
Like has been stated before, after you have enough money for the things you need and want, more helps very little.
Proof that money in and of itself doesn't bring happiness? Many people with more money than they can ever spend keep trying to make more. Why? Still trying to find happiness through the accumulation of cash.
Wow, and to think I almost bypassed reading this hub! That would have been a huge mistake. I must say that this is probably one of the best quality hubs I have read! It puts forth a very well thought out idea with several points all being made to support each opinion. You really did a great job! It truly wasn't "Just another hub about money buying happiness". It was a whole debate on the issue! With one conclusion, the answer lies only in each individual! Awesome writing!
Feline Prophet,
It's a great Hub. Surely money can not buy happiness, but it can solve many problems of self, family and friends. We can not live without money in today's world. So we should not deny the importance of money. However, you conclusion is correct: Money can not buy happiness.
Money helps, but as you say not the answer to happiness.
No, But it does buy things that lead to happiness. Plus makes life a lot easier. so really its a yes and no :)
paries - That's an interesting point of view! I guess it depends on our personal definition of the term 'happiness'! :)
Eight8consulting - Many people think externals have nothing to do with happiness. Either you are happy or you aren't! :)
Deepak - Money can bring some amount of comfort into your life...happiness is something you have to find for yourself! :)
tobey100 - I like your honesty! :)
putnut - How much money does anyone need, really? After a certain amount, it's probably more about power than happiness. :)
Kebennett1 - Thank you for your kind words! :)
jainismus - True, we cannot live without a certain amount of money...it's mindless pursuit of money that causes the problems. :)
stockpicks - Money certainly helps to ease life a bit! :)
George Tee - The answer to almost everything is usually a yes and a no! :)
Thank you all for reading and commenting! It's so nice to see so many new faces here...makes me realise there's so much on Hub Pages I have still to discover!
Very good Hub, imo. I was just thinking that sometimes a lack of money can buy UNhappiness, until we find a solution. Rated Up and Awesome.
Thank you, Patty. :)
It can be quite difficult for most people to experience what they think is happiness when they are struggling to make ends meet.
Interesting article and the line of comments following it. Agreed, we need to define what happiness means on an individual level since it is different for all of us. For some, money is essential for their own sense of satisfaction with life. For others, it is enough just to make ends meet without so much reliance on possessions. Money is both the root of all evil and the motivation for all of society's innovation. A two-sided coin so to speak.
Thanks to interact your ideas with us.
I was going to submit a comment but when I scrolled through and saw that there already are enough comments to fill an oil-tanker (bad analogy but all I could come up with at the moment)I decided NOT to comment. Hence this is not a comment. It does not exist as such.
Rather this is a new thing called something else...I don't know what. But it's something else. It's an anti-comment.
So there you have it. The first anti-comment on Hubpages. Looks like one, smells like one, walks like one, but isn't one.
By the way, what makes me happy is to be surprised. I love surprises of all kinds. Since you asked. (I know you didn't but I bet you wanted to!)
Best wishes
The Anti-commenter
Great post, as I always said money does not buy happiness.
What makes some people happy, makes other sick, so I guess it is up to every individual. As the Beatles stated "Money Can't Buy Love"
Does it really or is it jest a small filler to fill the holes that happiness cant that needs a different emotion?
wiserworld - 'Money is both the root of all evil and the motivation for all of society's innovation.' You couldn't have said it better! :)
khmohsin - Thanks for reading! :)
Woody Marx - Technically this is not a response because how can you respond to an anti-comment? Good to see you here, anyway! :)
Andie - It seems like money can't buy a lot of things! Thanks for reading! :)
firebird10101 - It really depends on each individual! Thanks for reading! :)
If money is the root of all evil, does it mean that all men are evil? Don't get me wrong but, who created money in the first place? We created it. And for what purpose? As payment for goods or services. The question is how money evolved from being a mere "object" to being the root of all evil? Remember it's an object. It doesn't have awareness and intelligence like we do. We control money not the other way around.
Now, going back to the topic. I believe that we can't really separate money from emotion, whether it's happiness, bitterness, etc...as long as we are in physical realm. I'm from a developing country which is previously a thirld world country. Sad to say that poverty or let's just say lack of money, leads to crime such as prostitution, illegal drug dealing, murder, theft and rampant corruption. If I may add, the poorest group resort to alms begging as last desperate move to survive. Try to talk to them and preach that money can't buy happiness or at least some comfort. Ask them if they are happy living on the streets.
I don't think God would want us to starve physically or spiritually. He wants us to be prosperous and successful in all aspects of life. Yes, including the financial aspect!
I believe that what really matters is finding balance in everything. If we achieve balance, happiness will not be as elusive as other people think.
Just my opinion and I'm open to constructive criticism. God bless us all! May we find happiness in Him that gives light!
keetee2012 - Thank you for your cogent comment. Everyone has their own equation with money and the emotions attached with it...and that's how it should be. :)
Well Done. Good Job. If money can really buy happiness, we don't have to work that hard to earn money. In my point of view, money cannot buy happiness, but it does help to build happiness as without money there is nothing that you can give to yourself, others and God. Based on the books that I have read about happiness and money, I conclude that the first step to be happy is to learn to count our BLESSINGS.
'Learning to count our blessings' - that's a very healthy attitude to take, dayakthinker! Thanks for reading and commenting! :)
Your are most welcome..
happiness is happiness ..To question its subjectivity or its relativity in my opinion is a proof of stupidity . Take it when u get it !
great post fp . new fan and follower .
I'm not sure if you just called me stupid, but thanks for reading, anyway! :)
I have often thought about this issue and feel that money doesn't bring happiness. It brings one much comfort but what is comfort without an inner happiness?
Many make decisions in life based on money and many others have countless other reasons or situations they choose over money. It's really just a personal choice.
Many times we all have opportunities with money that we can make happen if we choose. Yet deep within we know it will never bring us happiness. With other considerations for your life, like where you will live, who you may be around, etc., they are almost always important factors when it comes to your inner happiness.
Everyone has different views on money, some like material items, new cars, the biggest screen TV, and some like to keep up with the Jones making money a competition thing. Others feel that if they only had more money it would surely bring more happiness.
Many times money brings pressure and stress with or without it. For some it becomes an addiction. And some need it for their self-esteem basing money on who they are. Look at the man who loses his job and takes the lives of his whole family because he can not have his image ruined. I am sure his family would have been happy to have life even if it meant downsizing to less income.
You come into the world without money and you leave without it. I do, however, feel that money is more like a tool. It has many uses. As for inner happiness, that is something that comes from within, something you acquire throughout your journey in life, and no amount of money can buy that. You either feel good within or you don't.
dear fp ,
NOT AT ALL . Great witty writing ! I envy your skills greatly :).
Thanks for reading wwolfs, and for your thoughtful comment. It's so true that you can't eventually take your money with you - but I like to think you can take your happiness with you to another dimension! :)
snigdhal - I was just kidding! :)
I agree. Different things make different people happy. I would read the book Song of Solomon for a man that pursued a lot of different venues of happiness.
Thanks for the recommendation, hectordang - will look out for the book! :)
Money definitely cannot buy happiness. However, money has always been used to build happiness as happiness is created, never meant to be found.
Interesting viewpoint. Thanks for reading, dayakthinker! :)
In my honest opinion, money does buy happiness. I won't deny it. Without money I wouldn't be in school where I have met my friends or I wouldn't be able to enjoy my favorite snack or wouldn't be enjoying dinner with my family. You may think that I am materialistic but truth be told, if you're not materialistic enough, you'd wind up having a boring, unsuccessful life. If you lead a life where you only need to survive (paying your regular bills, eating 3 times a day, etc.), are you really satisfied? I don't think so. Try to picture out the bigger picture. If you were to suddenly have a million dollars in your pocket, what would you do to it. Whatever you want, right? Did it make you happy? I'm not saying that money is happiness but rather money is one of the ingredients of happiness.
Everyone is entitled to their opinions, and you are very honest about yours! It's difficult to be objective about money - how we view it is purely a matter of personal experience. Thanks for reading, sayus2884! :)
For me,money cannot buy happiness.If money can bring us happy, why this world still have many people cry??
simple, "the love for money is the root of all evil". The reason why they cry because they're either not doing anything to change their destiny or they're just too hungry for more money to the point where they'll die if there was none left in them.
MIN - People cry for different reasons - money need not be the cause. Thanks for your comment! :)
sayus2884 - It's a continuing dilemma that each of us has to work out for himself, right? :)
yes and it's very stressful to the society.
Money does not make us happy. Happiness comes from the inside, our soul and spirit. There is nothing of a physical nature that will create happiness in a person that is unhappy inside.
i don't believe that money does not make you happy, GDiBiase. I won't question the happiness comes from the soul part but are you not happy that you are able to eat? Are you not happy that you are able to provide for your family's needs? Apparently, we are in an era where we are totally dependent on money and that it is essential for our survival. Sad to say that without money you'll have an even sadder life. An undeniable fact, I believe.
GDiBiase - I guess it would depend on one's definition of happiness. Thanks for reading and commenting! :)
Money may not buy happiness, but it sure makes it easier.
Great Article Money doesn't buy happiness.
Since Celebrities have all this money they can too, still have a crappy lifestyle.
Neil, you're right - money does make life a little easier, and then perhaps you are happier to a certain extent!
Dportis24 - as always, it's all a matter of perception!
Thank you both for reading! :)
Well as it has taken me ten minutes to scroll down to tell you. This is an awesome hub! Because of all the great comments, it appears I am not alone in believing you have done an outstanding job with describing the myths of does money really make one happy? I have experienced a situation where money can be a good thing if it is used to assist someone who isn’t there yet. Money is nice. One can buy anything and not worry they have to count coins or budget. However, the down side is money is the root of all evil. Some who use money for selfishness seem to find themselves back needing it again. Voted up and shared on twitter. Awesome job! :)
Thank you, Jo! I am quite amazed at how much interest this hub seems to generate - I guess it's a subject we all think about at some time or the other. There are no real answers though - it's such an individual thing. Thanks for reading, voting up and sharing! :)
Money cannot buy happiness, but at the same time money can bring happiness in the life of people who are living below the poverty line.
You could be right - sometimes a little money can make a huge difference. Thanks for reading, lamsam! :)
The question is very interesting. Actually, money and happiness are probably two major things people are looking for in this world. Money is important. When we have money, we can buy food, clothes, pay our bills, provide for our basic needs. Money can bring satisfaction in the material world. But happiness...
It's the eternal dilemma...what exactly is happiness anyway? Thanks for reading, avorodisa! :)
Shalini Kagal Level 4 Commenter 2 years ago
Each to his own transaction with happiness .... how true! Finally, it is so relative and so very personal, isn't it? Might one ask why a certain cat is feeling slightly philosophical today?? :)