i was reading this book 'HR Metamorphosis' by Ho Geok Choo when i came across this paragraph-->While there is apparently a casual link between income and personal happiness, it would be wrong to assume that this is always the case. Money in itself is not a creator of happiness. Likewise, and according to Richard Layard, the pursuit of money brings with it other problems. These include more stress, insecurity, fear of job loss and an overwhelming need to achieve. He also identified seven key factors that are most influential when it comes to promoting happiness. They are income, work, private life, community, health, freedom and a philosophy of life.


I think that all this is very true, especially in a fast-pace country like Singapore. I still think that money equals to happiness for most Singaporeans and this can be seen from many factors such as our educational system. Although i agree that we have a good education system which explains why Singapore is able to stay prosperous, our teachers and parents teach us to be good in studies so that we can look for a good job in the future. Most often, parents equate a good job to one which provides a high level of security(e.g office job) and a high paying one. On some occasions, I feel sad when i am unable to afford the things that i want. But to think twice, i realised that there are many other things which are more important that materialistic wants e.g Family, friends and good health. Expensive things only bring short-term happiness to me. Happiness is a long-term pursuit to everyone and have you ever thought of what you really want in life?