Are you happier with more money?

Speaking to anyone who makes decent money now can you share how much you needed to feel like you’re completely good and content? I make below 70k at a JLL/CBRE and the effort:comp ratio is killing me. Really getting run down because I’m only located where I am to work and I’m not even making money. Compared to other industries I feel like I kinda screwed myself. Any positive anecdotes I can take from any of you?

Thanks

 

I did one year of lower comp RE job before switching to REIB. Was definitely happier with more money, but I want truly happy until I had a full social life AND high comp. If you’re not being fulfilled outside of work, even $2mm per year won’t cut it

 
Most Helpful

I think many assume that more money always translates to happiness, or fulfillment, but it's not really the case.

Many will assume that making over $1MM will be magical, but that often brings even more headaches due to other responsibilities or issues along the way, that make a lot of guys absolutely miserable.

Also, even looking at wealth overall, people assume than having a lot of wealth translates to automatic happiness. However, I can tell you that over $100MM, your life doesn't really change, even when reaching into several billion. I know a few people worth billions who are miserable, almost paranoid/super anxious, and constantly depressed, etc.

My point is that wealth, or income, doesn't really translate the way we like to think. Sure, it gives you a bit more flexibility, and more options, and the ability to afford things, but what good is having a yacht or something, it if you don't have time to use it, ever.

It's a weird thing, we always want more, but when we get there, we are still hunting for the satisfaction that we assumed would be there, but it remains elusive.

In the scenario you mention, I realize it might seem like you are grinding, and making little in the process; and it's even worse when not in the desired location.

Try to look at it in terms of just getting through this moment, and this chapter, so that you can move on to more desirable roles, in more desirable locations, and perhaps have a chance at the fulfillment you desire.

Most of us have felt a bit of what you describe, but the key is to push through, and see the light at the end of the tunnel, and to keep up the good work, to get where you want to be. Good luck.

Investor (30+ years); IB/RE/PE/Corp. Exp (MD level); currently, head of boutique private equity firm; principal of family office.
 

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