Robert Frank: “Considerable evidence suggests that if we use an increase in our incomes, as many of us do, simply to buy bigger houses and more expensive cars, then we do not end up any happier than before. But if we use an increase in our incomes to buy more of certain inconspicuous goods — such as freedom from a long commute or a stressful job — then the evidence paints a very different picture. The less we spend on conspicuous consumption goods, the better we can afford to alleviate congestion; and the more time we can devote to family and friends, to exercise, sleep, travel, and other restorative activities. On the best available evidence, reallocating our time and money in these and similar ways would result in healthier, longer — and happier — lives.”
via Kottke.
Sydney Johnston on August 9th, 2004 at 7:41 am
This is such a true entry! Every once in a while I like to ride in rush hour traffic in my town of Atlanta. It’s such a nightmare and an ordeal. So why do it? Because for days afterwards I am so grateful and aware of how fortunate I am that my commute consists of a few second walk down my stairs.
Yes, being an entrepreneur is demanding, sometimes scary and often we work harder than we ever did in a J-O-B. But the rewards are more than worth it. We self employed folks are the luckiest people in the world!