Money and Happiness

The saying "Money can't buy you happiness" is true enough. It cannot buy the profound sense of satisfaction and joy that we know as happiness. That can only come from within.

But what money can buy are opportunities to increase the amount of enjoyment in a person's life.More enjoyment in life equals a greater chance of experiencing general satisfaction in life. Thus, money can--in a indirect way--buy you happiness, but only in short bursts.

Money can buy us all the accouterments of a comfortable lifestyle. Houses, cars, vacations to exotic lands..these are the sort of that money can help us buy. These are also some of the things that can contribute to an overall satisfied mood.But these objects of luxury can only augment, not create, happiness.

My current job does not provide me with the opportunity(read: funds) to have a nice car or go on excursions to Italy like the jobs of my friends do.My job is terribly unsatisfying from a professional as well as a financial standpoint. For those who has read my blog, this is no secret.

But having said that, I can admit to a general overall sense of happiness. Yeah, I am displeased with my professional and financial situation, but neither defines me. I have my family and friends, my passion, and also perspective. Many people have it much worse than I. How can I complain when so many have much less than I?

Of course, my level of happiness would be increased significantly if I were to find a better paying job.This goes back to the increasing of opportunities that money provides.This is why I need a new job.

My satisfaction level will not automatically increase with a new job that pays better than job I have now. This I know for sure. But it will afford me the chance to explore the world and to live out my dreams. A job is a means to an end.