We were made to work hard and to live in a community setting. Money may not bring us happiness, but connectivity with others and productivity will.
Think about it…people win the lottery and are still depressed. But when you have an amazing support group (friends, family, people in your social groups at the gym, at church, or in a club, etc.) AND you are getting things done, you are usually very happy.
I love the feeling of being tired from working hard. It helps me feel like I earned a break to sit down and watch tv or even to do nothing. I can do whatever I want and feel no sense of guilt after a long day’s work.
Money is a good thing. I’m not trying to downplay it. But it should not be our only focus. If you focus instead on growing the depth of your relationships with others and being productive in the most important aspects of your life, you will feel much more fulfilled than if you’re just chasing the next big paycheck. (By the way, if you’re happy, productive, and motivated, you’ll probably be a better employee or boss, which can lead to more money anyways…it’s ironic because once you stop chasing it, that’s when it will come to you easier than ever.)