Happiness: What Money Can’t Buy

Happiness: What Money Can’t Buy

I’ve been listening to a book called Your Money and Your Brain, hoping to understand why, no matter how much money people have, it never seems to be enough. The author cites a survey about happiness, and the results—while surprising at first—make perfect sense when you think about them not with your mind, but with your heart.

In the survey, people were asked, “Taking all things together, how would you say you are these days? Are you pretty happy, very happy, or not too happy?” Respondents ranked their happiness on a scale of 1 to 7, with 1 being not at all happy and 7 being extremely happy.

Here’s what they found: Members of the Mossi ethnic group, who herd livestock on the arid plains of Kenya and Tanzania, scored an average of 5.7. The Inuit, living in the harsh conditions of northern Greenland, scored 5.8, and the Amish community in the United States also averaged 5.8. Interestingly, the Forbes 400—the wealthiest people in America, with a minimum net worth of $125 million at the time—also averaged 5.8 on the happiness scale. Despite their vast fortunes, they weren’t any happier than sheep herders in Africa or communities without material wealth.

So, what makes the Mossi, Inuit, and Amish just as happy as the richest people in America? It’s certainly not money. The survey didn’t delve into the reasons, but if I had to guess, I’d say a strong sense of community and belonging plays a significant role in their well-being. What brings you happiness? Are you waiting for a raise, a much-anticipated vacation, or retirement to feel happy? While these things can bring enjoyment  in the moment, they won’t provide lasting happiness.

Once you have enough money to meet your basic needs, more money won’t necessarily make you any happier. Cultivate what truly brings joy—relationships, a sense of purpose, and meaningful experiences. After all, having a vast fortune in America doesn’t make you happier than a shepherd in Africa.