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Golden Inspirations |
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"We are not the web of life, but merely a strand in it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves."
- Chief Seattle
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Home  Featured Columnists Dr. Michael Brickey, Ph.D. Ask Dr. Ageless Does money buy happiness?
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Does money buy happiness?
David Myers' classic study of happiness found that between 1960 and 1990 Americans' income, adjusted for inflation doubled but the percentage of Americans rating themselves very happy remained constant at 30%.
Does the relationship hold? Any study is merely a photograph in time, from one perspective. The more photos, the better we understand the picture.
A few years ago Science magazine reported on a survey of 42,000 US scientists and their career satisfaction. These included professionals and postdocs in universities, research facilities, medical facilities, and self-employment settings. For all categories between 60% and 75% rated themselves as "very satisfied."
Average salaries ranged from 51K to 99K and there was no relationship between income and satisfaction. The exception was professionals in the highest paid group (99K)--Pharmaceuticals. Only 22% were satisfied. Overall those in academic and self-employed settings were happier than those in industry (though industry had higher salaries). As one respondent put it, "I can't believe they pay me to do what otherwise would be my hobby."
Retirement ages are getting later and later. Among academics almost 70% anticipated not retiring until 70 or older.
Would they choose a science career again? 70% said yes. Why? To quote the article: A clear message from the respondents is "love conquers all...following your bliss is the only sure way to happiness say many of those surveyed."
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Dr. Michael Brickey, The Anti-Aging Psychologist, teaches people to think, feel, look and be more youthful. His is an inspiring keynote speaker and the Oprah-featured author of Defy Aging and 52 baby steps to Grow Young. Visit www.Notaging.com for a free report on secrets for being more youthful and a free newsletter with practical anti-aging tips.
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