How much money do you need to be happy?

$10k/month? $30k? $100k…? I bet you have a number in mind.

Whatever the amount, there will always be another echelon of achievement to strive for when you get there. Sure, more money can enable a better life, but to what end? If you have to work so hard, give up so much time, and sacrifice to be able to succeed… what’s left when you finally arrive?

I think it’s possible to be motivated by a better life, while simultaneously cultivating a life that you love right now. For me, that starts with the mindset of removing frustrations instead of obsessing over gaining success. It’s so much easier to remove things that currently ail you, than manifesting some alternate reality where you’re richer and maybe happier.

Here’s an actionable thought experiment: What are 3 frustrating things that, if you could avoid them, delegate them, or completely remove them from your life tomorrow… would make you noticeably happier? Chances are, all three cost less than your arbitrary “success number” — so start there!

Aim to be content where you are now right now, and surely happiness will follow you wherever you go.