The story is said of a man who had everything anyone would wish for; youth and vigor, wealth, fame and wealth of knowledge. Yet, despite all these things, he is said to have exclaimed that they are all vanity and a striving after the wind. Yes, what may seem to bring lasting happiness to one person does not necessarily prove to be the case for someone who has gained it all. There are many philanthropists in the world who have realized that material things do not bring happiness. On the contrary, they may make one miss the very purpose of life and the real key to happiness.
When looked from any angle, money does not offer the satisfaction that many seem to crave for. Ironically, we all yearn to have more money, get better jobs that pay more or advance our careers so that in the long run, we can earn more. The truth is, the key to happiness is not in the amount of money that we have, but rather what we do with what we have and also our attitude towards what we have and what we dont have. As the New Scientist magazine recently put it, wealth is not a predictor of happiness, study after study has shown that once people have enough money to meet their basic needs, getting more of it does not give them much of a boost. So where does real happiness lie?
Some people seem to find a measure of happiness by pursuing their interests and hobbies in life. Whether it is in the volunteer work or studying astronomy, many people claim that such a focus in life gives them a sense of balance and a desire to do their best in what they love doing. In fact, it has been shown that one way to have some measure of balance and satisfaction is doing something one loves. When hobbies and interests are put to good use and in the right place, they can offer some satisfaction and give life measure of direction.
Perhaps satisfaction in life comes from knowing that life has a purpose. Having a direction and being focused towards a certain course can also bring happiness. Lasting happiness however comes where such a focus is long-term. It is very easy to deceive oneself as well to be deceived as to the key to happiness. At least one thing is certain; money is not the key to happiness and it never will.