There’s a recent NY Times article that reinvigorates debate around the Easterlin paradox, which basically says that money doesn’t buy happiness. It turns out that might be wrong; perhaps money CAN in fact buy happiness.
Kevin Kelly made an insightful comment regarding the topic:
My own interpretation of this research is that what money brings is increased choices, rather than merely increased stuff (although more stuff comes with the territory). We don’t find happiness in more gadgets and experiences. We do find happiness in having some control of our time and work, a chance for real leisure, in the escape from the uncertainties of war, poverty, and corruption, and in a chance to pursue individual freedoms — all of which come with increased affluence.
Increased affluence is one way, another way is reducing that which controls you.
Fewer options means easier choices (use the 80/20 rule to reduce clutter).
However, we marketers have an important takeaway as well: give your customers and clients control. Don’t force your story on to them, let them find a role for you within theirs. Help them find you a place within their story.
It is not until you fit into their imagined reality that you will find a place in their real one.