Enough Money?

Dear Victorious,

How much money do people really need to be happy?

A. R. - Salt Lake City

Dear A.R.,

You ask a good question. The first assumption might be that we never really have enough money to be happy - and that most of us will always want more. While that may be the case sometimes, I do not believe it is the case for most people. Rather I believe most people would like enough money not to have to worry about anything. Most people would like enough money to be able to indulge their basic passions. Most people would like enough money to be able to pursue just a few of their dreams. If we can accomplish these things, then I believe we have enough money and are happy.

If you'll notice the above explanation - I don't believe the specific amount of money one needs to be happy is determined by a number. Rather it is determined by a met need or want. When the need or want is met, then the money is enough. Conversely, for those who don't focus on their real needs or wants, money becomes the end goal all by itself. It is that person who is singularly focused on money that never has enough to be happy.