Don't keep up with the Joneses! Happiness, income comparisons and economic growth

In today's society, we are constantly exposed to the successes, possessions, and achievements of others. Social media amplifies this effect by presenting us with a never-ending stream of curated perfection—luxury holidays, career milestones, perfect homes. But what is this doing to our mental health, our relationships, and our collective wellbeing?

The Comparison Trap

Psychological research shows that social comparison is one of the most powerful—and harmful—forces affecting our subjective wellbeing. Even when our own standard of living improves, we may feel worse if others appear to be progressing faster or achieving more.

This helps explain why economic growth doesn't automatically lead to greater happiness in society. We end up on what's called a hedonic treadmill: every improvement in our living conditions brings only temporary satisfaction, after which we quickly seek the next upgrade—often triggered by what others have.

"We measure ourselves not by what we have, but by what others seem to have more of."

The Price We Pay

This constant comparison doesn't just affect individuals through stress, burnout, and depression. It also has wider social consequences:

Inequality feels worse, as people in relative poverty constantly feel left behind—even when their basic needs are met.

Consumption accelerates, causing environmental harm through resource depletion and CO₂ emissions.

Meaning is sidelined, as "having more" seems to outweigh "living better."

An Alternative Perspective: Absolute Wellbeing

At Happonomy, we advocate for a radical shift in focus—from relative wealth to absolute wellbeing. Instead of asking, "How do I compare to others?", we should ask, "How well am I really living?"

Absolute wellbeing is built around:

Health – both physical and mental

Relationships – strong social connections

Meaning – doing what matters to you

Ecological livability – staying within the limits of our planet

This doesn't mean material wealth is unimportant, but that it should be a means, not the goal.

Practical Steps Toward a Wellbeing Economy

Want to escape the comparison trap and help build a regenerative future? Here are a few concrete steps:

Limit your exposure to social media
Follow people who inspire rather than intimidate. Take regular digital breaks.

Focus on personal growth, not material status
Learn something new, build a skill, stay curious—it brings lasting joy.

Invest in experiences and relationships
Research shows memories and connection contribute more to happiness than possessions.

Contribute to something larger than yourself
Support a livable planet, a fairer society, or your local community.

Redefine what success means to you
Measure life by wellbeing, impact, and balance—not just by your paycheck or possessions.

The Way Forward

An economy based on wellbeing and regeneration is possible. It requires a different logic—one where value is defined not just financially, but socially and ecologically. An economy where life is at the center, not just earning.

At Happonomy, we're building models, tools, and ecosystems to support this transition—from alternative business models to wellbeing-based measurement tools and regenerative economic design.

We believe a society where people flourish within the boundaries of the planet is not only desirable—it's entirely within reach.

Because real wealth is not what you have, but how you live.