Can money really buy happiness?

The short answer is....Yes!

But, (there's always a but) good health and social interaction are even better at providing us with happiness. We just don't seem to know that. This is all based on a study done by the University of London.

Sometimes you have to wonder about these studies, but it does make for some very interesting reading. Here is an example; a decline in your health from 'excellent to poor' has a psychic cost of $480,000. I have no idea how they worked out the dollar figure. Another example; more time with friends and family can feel like a $179,000 raise (assuming you like your clan).

So the conclusion is that money can buy happiness just not a whole lot of it. The happiness that comes from materialistic things doesn't last long but quality time with those that you love does.

One more for you to consider.....if you see your friends and relatives less than once per year, you would need an extra $133,000 annually. Get married and it is the equivalent of gaining $105,000 annually. Lose your spouse and it would take $421,000 to make you happy again.

Unfortunately, most people just don't know what is good for them. For instance, if you offered most people a Million Dollars to never see their friends and family again...a lot would take the cash. A few years later they would probably find themselves very unhappy. Material things fade in importance as you get older (and wiser). Loved one's and happy memories...last forever!

Eduardo

P.S. If you were flat broke and the bill collectors were knocking on your door, I can imagine just a little extra cash would produce some big time happiness!