Sir, You report another attempt to glorify mediocrity and gloat in the myths of miserable millionaires “The price of success” (times2, June 12). Countless studies have established a definitive link between wealth and happiness. Yes, money is indeed a key ingredient to happiness in our society. While there is more to life than how rich you are, alas even love, good health and longevity are linked to wealth.
The men described are stressed and anxious for three reasons. Some do not make enough money relative to others and therefore feel depressed because their happiness is comparative. Secondly, they have not learnt how to handle stress. Finally, others have not learnt to use their wealth to buy freedom and choice and are focused only on acquiring possessions. Research shows that many of the rich are not on this hedonistic treadmill.
While the articles describe the sick traits of the rich and successful, it is unclear to me what advice follows beyond getting off the corporate ladder and resigning oneself to being a happy hobo. My advice is to learn how to thrive in a stressful environment just as our cave-man ancestors had to learn how to survive in a stress-filled jungle.
EVA KLEIN
Teaching Fellow,
London Business School