https://www.alainguillot.com/why-more-wealth-isnt-making-us-happier/

The Paradox of Prosperity

I have everything, yet I am not always happy. Sometimes I get lonely because I work at home and I lack social interaction, or sometimes I get jealous of other people who have more money or fame than me.

As a society, we are wealthier than ever before. We have access to more resources, better healthcare, longer lifespans, and technological advancements that make life more convenient. Yet, despite all this progress, we seem to be getting unhappier.

Every year, the General Social Survey (GSS) asks Americans a simple question:

“Taken all together, how would you say things are these days—would you say that you are very happy, pretty happy, or not too happy?”

The responses paint a concerning picture. In 2021, the percentage of people who declared themselves to be very happy dropped below 20%—a steep decline compared to past decades. While surveys aren’t always perfect reflections of reality, the trend is clear: we are growing more unhappy. But why?

Despite our material gains, several factors contribute to our increasing dissatisfaction:

1. Social Media and the Comparison Trap
   Social media constantly bombards us with curated versions of other people’s lives, making it easy to feel inadequate. We compare our everyday realities with the highlight reels of influencers, celebrities, and even our own friends. No matter how much we achieve, it often feels like someone else is doing better, earning more, traveling more, or simply living better.
2. Wealth Flexing and the Illusion of Inequality
   While economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty, it has also widened the wealth gap. Social media magnifies this disparity, making it seem as if “everyone is getting rich—except me.” The visibility of extreme wealth creates unrealistic benchmarks, leaving many feeling left behind even if they are financially stable.
3. The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
   Life today is filled with endless choices—career paths, travel destinations, personal projects, social events. Instead of feeling grateful for what we do experience, we often focus on what we haven’t done. This leads to a constant feeling of inadequacy, as if we are always falling short of life’s potential.
4. The Political Climate and Pessimism
   In the past, political issues felt more distant. Today, social media brings every scandal, injustice, and controversy directly into our feeds. The 24/7 news cycle fuels anxiety, anger, and division, making it harder to remain optimistic about the future.

The research is clear: happiness doesn’t come from external achievements or material possessions. Instead, it’s found in:

• Meaningful Relationships – Strong social connections are the biggest predictor of long-term happiness. Investing in friendships, family, and community provides a sense of belonging and support.
• Purposeful Work – Feeling that our work contributes to something bigger than ourselves, whether through career, volunteering, or passion projects, enhances our well-being.
• Practicing Gratitude – Shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have can transform our mindset. Taking time to appreciate life’s small joys—sunsets, laughter, personal growth—can make a significant difference.

We have more wealth, access, and opportunities than previous generations, yet we’re still searching for happiness. The answer isn’t in more—more money, more status, more possessions. It’s in less: less comparison, less consumerism, less fear of missing out. By focusing on what truly matters, we can reclaim our happiness in an age of abundance.