Stephanie Harrison highlights how our culture's obsession with wealth may actually be driving us toward unhappiness.
As noted in the 2024 World Happiness Survey, our nation is struggling with happiness. For the first time since the survey began, the U.S. has fallen out of the top 20 happiest nations, landing at number 23 this year, nestled between the United Arab Emirates and Germany. What steps can we take to boost our joy? Harrison, author of “New Happy: Getting Happiness Right In a World That’s Got It Wrong,” offers some thoughts.
Harrison has spent a decade studying happiness and argues that the traditional notions of happiness are detrimental. She refers to this mindset as “the Old Happy.” According to her, “The Old Happy reflects the societal pressures that tell us we must achieve more and more, and that we must do everything on our own.”
While various external factors contribute to our dissatisfaction—such as rising grocery prices, mortgage rates around 7%, and increasing credit card debts—we can focus on what we can manage, emphasizing our own well-being (no summer blues here!).
LISTEN: Your 2024 Happiness Reset
Harrison points out that while money is necessary for experiencing life, supporting our families, and indulging in hobbies, the relentless chase for more can be problematic. “Many people feel there’s no limit to what’s enough. We often equate more money with success and fulfillment, but it doesn’t necessarily lead to increased happiness. Sure, we need our basic needs met, but I challenge the idea that endless pursuit is the solution,” she states.
If you’re feeling down this year (or if the world feels heavy), Harrison suggests redefining happiness. She believes that true happiness, or “The New Happy,” comes from understanding yourself and using your strengths to benefit others. “By doing this, you not only grow and fulfill your potential, but you also contribute positively to the world,” she explains.
In our Mailbag segment, we address a listener anticipating a significant inheritance and looking for investment advice. Another young listener seeks recommendations for top financial influencers on TikTok.
