Ha! I’m not rich and I think I’m happier than most millionaires. First of all, I’m a consultant and make my own hours—I don’t report to a boss. I’m doing work I like pretty much when I like. Second, I take a break and do things I like nearly every day. Don’t feel like doing more work right now? Talk a walk. Go to a coffee shop and read. Do some writing. Draw.

I once had a company that did web development—back when those companies were rare. I made better money and had a pretty good time. But I realized back then that the money wasn’t the big thing. It was NOT reporting to anyone and doing what I enjoyed.

That was good, but I’m better off today—with less money.

Yes, you need ENOUGH money. I took care of that by buying a rental property, keeping my expenses low (you can have LOTS of fun and free time without spending a ton), and doing my freelance work.

Frankly, I think a lot of wealthy people aren’t that happy. They live in fear that they’ll lose money. They worry that they’ll fall behind their peers. Sometimes, they’re in high paying jobs that are stressful and require morally questionable behavior. Many, I suspect, have a great deal of anxiety that they hide.