My parents were minimalists before minimalism was popular. They never really chased material things to “keep up with the Joneses” and always lived within their means. While some were upgrading their cars, Dad drove the same second-hand Toyota for years.
While some overextended themselves to buy their dream house, we lived comfortably in a small apartment. Why do we insist that specifically money doesn’t buy happiness? What’s wrong with having it both ways? Credit: Simon Letch I remember Dad sitting me down in primary school to explain the difference between “wants” and “needs” and the perpetual roller-coaster of emotions that attachment to material desires could cause. I was taught early on that material possessions can’t give you lasting fulfilment.
It was a profound teaching to get at a young age. It almost seems ironic that I would go on to spend much of my working life talking about money – the most material of possessions, perhaps. Now, having worked with so many to transform their relationship with money, I’ve seen both sides.
So, I can appreciate the truth to this sentiment but also see the nuance that doesn’t get talked about enough. The truth is that nothing can give you happiness. Happiness and fulfilment are internal states.
No one is walking around telling you that religion, education, career, family also do not guarantee happiness. Why single out money? No external circumstance or possession – family, children, a great job, a beautiful b.
