Does Money Actually Buy Happiness? – Here Are 5 Truths 😃

Greetings, and welcome to the eleventh edition of Wallet Wellness in 2025 - your midweek source of practical personal finance tips to elevate your money management skills.

We hope you had a chance to check out the last edition where we ventured into why you’re always broke by mid-month – and how to fix it. In today’s edition, we tackle a controversial topic, does money really buy happiness? And explore some practical truths around it.

As always, be sure to check out the Concept Corner below for a deep dive into the money concept of the week.

Let’s dive in! 

MONEY254 TIP OF THE WEEK

Does Money Actually Buy Happiness? – Here Are 5 Truths😃

Money and happiness have always been deeply linked, but is it really as simple as "the more money, the happier you are"? The truth is more complex.

While financial stability can significantly improve well-being, beyond a certain point, money alone doesn’t guarantee fulfillment. 

Let’s break down five key truths about the relationship between money and happiness.

1. Money Reduces Stress, But Only Up to a Point 🧘‍♂️

Financial stability helps alleviate stress by covering essentials like food, shelter, and healthcare. However, once basic needs are met, additional wealth doesn’t necessarily translate to a happier life. Stress can still exist in other areas, like work pressure or relationship struggles, regardless of income level.

• Basic Security Matters: Having enough money for essentials significantly reduces financial anxiety.

• Diminishing Returns: After a certain income level, extra wealth has a smaller impact on happiness.

• Emotional Well-being Counts: Stress from personal or work life can persist despite financial comfort. Read More.

2. Experiences Bring More Joy Than Possessions✈️

Buying material things can provide short-term pleasure, but experiences tend to create lasting fulfillment. Studies show that people remember and cherish meaningful experiences, while possessions quickly lose their novelty.

• Memories Last Longer: The joy from experiences, like travel or time with loved ones, endures over time.

• Social Connections Matter: Experiences often involve others, strengthening relationships and increasing happiness.

• Less Buyer’s Remorse: Unlike material goods, experiences don’t lead to regret over money spent. Read More.

3. Generosity Increases Happiness❤️

Spending money on others, whether through gifts, donations, or acts of kindness, has been shown to boost happiness levels. Generosity builds connection, gratitude, and a sense of purpose, making life more fulfilling.

• Giving Strengthens Relationships: Acts of generosity deepen bonds with family, friends, and communities.

• Boosts Self-worth: Helping others creates a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

• Happiness Loop: Generosity triggers positive emotions, reinforcing a cycle of well-being. Read More. 

4. Money Can Buy Time, and Time Equals Happiness⏳

Using money to free up time—whether through outsourcing chores, shorter commutes, or flexible work—can significantly boost life satisfaction. People who prioritise time over money tend to feel less stressed and more in control of their lives.

• Time is Finite: Unlike money, time can’t be earned back, making it more valuable.

• Reduced Burnout: Paying for services like cleaning or meal prep can ease daily stress.

• More Time For Joy: Freeing up time allows for more meaningful activities and relaxation. Read More.

5. Financial Stability Brings Freedom, Not Just Wealth🔓

True financial happiness isn’t about having millions—it’s about having the freedom to make choices without constant money worries. The ability to live within your means, plan for the future, and handle unexpected expenses creates a deep sense of peace.

• Less Financial Anxiety: Knowing you can cover expenses reduces daily stress.

• More Control Over Choices: Financial freedom allows you to make decisions based on values, not desperation.

• Happiness in Balance: A well-planned life with stability often brings more joy than chasing endless wealth. Read More.

Money plays a role in happiness, but it’s not the ultimate source of it. True fulfillment comes from how you use money—whether it’s reducing stress, creating meaningful experiences, giving to others, or buying back your time. 

Financial well-being isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building a life that aligns with what truly makes you happy.

CONCEPT CORNER

Regret Theory😬

Generally, regrets have a negative influence on your mood and they can ruin your days, demeanour or leave you with an unpleasant feeling if left unchecked. The irony of life is that regrets can get you on your path to happiness. Imagine that! That’s why the regret theory is worth exploring. Learn More.

Money and Me: Exactly How Much is Enough for Me?

“...I feel like a prisoner caught up in a hyper-competitive society. I feel an incessant pressure to accumulate wealth and strive for financial success. All around me - billboards, social media, neighbours - are images of opulence and extravagant lifestyles, so much that I often feel inadequate…” Read On.

MONEY254 #MONEYTOK

5 Red Flags That You Have Unhealthy Money Boundaries

You’ve probably heard about people-pleasing, but have you ever thought about how such tendencies can affect your finances? If you find yourself often struggling to say "no", you might be setting unhealthy financial boundaries — and this can hurt your financial growth.

In this week's MoneyTok, we take a closer look at some of the tell-tale signs of unhealthy money boundaries. Watch the video and learn more about setting money boundaries in this article!

That's it for the eleventh Wallet Wellness edition of 2025! We hope these financial tips have added some energy to your weekly hustle. Stay tuned for more practical insights in our next edition of "Wallet Wellness" next week and watch out for Money Weekly.

Also, don’t forget to download the Money254 App on the Google Play Store, and remember that we can help you compare over 300 loans, savings accounts, current accounts, and more if you’re thinking about your next product.

Cheers to your wallet's well-being!

Money254 editorial team.