Recently, a friend called me after three years. During our chat, he sounded frustrated with his life. He shared that he was working in an MNC with a high salary of around 40 LPA in a big city. But despite this, he wasn’t happy. He admitted that he was much happier in his previous job, where he earned 19 LPA in a Tier-2 city. There, he had a better work-life balance and a good environment.
This story made me think: Why do so many people chase high salaries in big cities only to feel dissatisfied later?
Let’s dive deeper to understand why this happens.
The Generational Shift: Then vs. Now
If we look at our parents’ generation, many of them lived in joint families. The benefits of living in a joint family system were numerous. They had emotional support from family members, shared financial responsibilities, and a built-in social network that helped them handle stress and challenges. Most importantly, there was no social media to distract or pressure them. People were more present, shared real-life moments, and didn’t compare their lives to carefully curated online images.
Today, even though high salaries and opportunities draw people to big cities, the support system that comes from being close to family is often missing. Add to that the stress of urban life and the constant comparison triggered by social media, and it’s no wonder that people start feeling disconnected and unhappy.
Why More Money Doesn’t Always Mean More Happiness
Earning a higher salary does come with advantages like better living conditions, more access to services, and luxury experiences. However, it also brings challenges: longer working hours, higher living costs, limited personal time, and a fast-paced, competitive environment that can lead to burnout. The constant pressure to keep up with city life can overshadow the joy that comes with financial growth.
What to Do for Happiness
If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some ways to reconnect with happiness:
- Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, engaging in hobbies, or simply unwinding, balance is key.
- Limit Social Media Use: Reduce the time you spend scrolling through social media. This helps decrease the pressure of comparison and allows you to focus on your own journey.
- Stay Connected with Family and Friends: Regularly connect with family and friends, even if they’re far away. A supportive network can make all the difference.
- Find Purpose Beyond Work: Explore passions or interests outside of your job that give you fulfilment, such as volunteering, learning new skills, or fitness activities.
- Simplify Your Life: Appreciate the simple things. You don’t need a high-end lifestyle to feel content—sometimes, less is more.
Conclusion
A high salary in a big city might seem like the ultimate goal, but true happiness comes from more than just financial success. It comes from feeling balanced, connected, and content with the life you’re living. As my friend’s story shows, sometimes stepping back and reassessing your priorities can help you find the peace and satisfaction you’re searching for.
Thank you for reading. We wish you happiness, balance, and fulfilment in all aspects of your life. Stay connected, stay grounded, and remember that true success is finding joy in the journey.
Have a great day!
