10 Ways Money Can Buy You Happiness

Perhaps money doesn't "buy" happiness as much as it gives you control and choices in your life. And who wouldn't be happy with that?

I will be the first to admit, I really like money. It has rescued me from bad situations and allowed me to live a nice, comfortable existence. And while I have probably traded in a lot of my life energy force for the green stuff, I have never done anything illegal or immoral to acquire it.

Though I am not considered rich, by most standards, money has been good to me and I respect it. It has given me a certain peace of mind and that makes me very happy.

With enough money, a world of possibilities are opened up to you. Your life can become easier, simpler and more fun. Money can "buy" you happiness because it gives you the means to:

1) Pay your bills and not be bothered by creditors.

2) Live in a safer, better neighborhood in a nicer house.

3) Buy organic and more natural foods, which are usually healthier but costlier. For example: Wild-caught salmon is very good for you, but it costs about $24 a pound. Farm-raised costs about half that much, but it is loaded with contaminants.

4) Buy the best health care available (especially if you live in the United States).

5) Travel more to see friends, family or the world. And, if you choose, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of flying first-class or business-class, and staying in nicer hotels.

6) Buy quality products that won't break down or fall apart. You don't have to buy cheaply made clothing, second-hand furniture or a high-mileage car unless you really want to. Many millionaires choose to drive old cars to disguise their wealth.

7) Get out of a harmful situation such as a bad relationship or degrading job.

8) Help others less fortunate. When you give to charities you care about, it feels really good.
It can change others' lives as well as yours.

9) Pursue your hobbies and interests. The more money you have the more time and money you can spend on doing activities you really enjoy, whether it is art, crafts, boating, or writing.

10) Relax. Having a nice sum of money put away for a rainy day gives you a feeling of being in control. You don't have to worry about emergencies, because if you need money, it is there.

For those who choose to be miserable no matter what, or those who think acquiring "things" will make them happy, money might not make much of a difference. But for most of us, a little stashed cash can put a smile on our faces and change our lives for the better.

Learn more about this author, Kenda Robertson.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

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