Wealth Does Not Equal Happiness

In a list of the wealthiest countries, it is no surprise that the United States comes out on top, earning almost  triple the GDP than runner-up Japan. 

These statistics would make you think that Americans, in general, are wealthier and less stressed than their foreign counterparts, right? Well think again. In a Business Week study in which researchers compiled data to compare happiness in countries around the world, the United States ranked 23rd, below many countries whose citizens have lower incomes. To read more about the study, click here. The article states their finding, saying: 

"The most significant factors were health, the level of poverty, and access to basic education."

We already know that America is extremely wealthy, and it seems to me (although I'm not an expert) that in the broad spectrum of the world, Americans are decently healthy and they all have access to education up to High School. What else could be causing America's unhappiness?


This study made me think of the American dream. As Americans, we always think there is something more to improve, more money to be made, or another wrung on the social ladder to climb. We are never content with where we are at. So we can continue to make money exponentially compared to the rest of the world, but our mindset will hold us back from the happiness we are truly searching for.