2/1/2024 0 Comments Hedonic happiness![]() Until this point, raises can incrementally increase an individual’s happiness as the stress of being able to cover life’s many necessities is gradually alleviated. The average American’s basic needs are completely and comfortably covered when they reach a $75,000 yearly salary. Winning the lottery won’t make me happy, but a raise will, right?” The answer is yes, then no, and then not at all. But Harrell’s story proves the age-old adage, “Be careful what you wish for.” The promise of an easy and extravagant life falling into your lap overnight is the fuel that drives Americans to spend over $70 billion on lotto tickets every year. Winning the lottery is many people’s wildest dream. When his ex-wife refused his request for reconciliation, he locked himself in the bedroom of the house he purchased with his winnings and took his own life. Harrell went from a happy, religious family man to a depressed middle-aged divorced person. ![]() Soon, his spending and lending became the final straw that broke his already strained marriage. Despite changing his number several times, people always seemed to find a way to get their hands on his digits. Soon everyone, from members of his church to complete strangers, was coming out of the woodwork with their hands out. He donated large sums to his church and helped his fellow worshippers in need. Harrell was generous with his winnings, buying homes for himself and his family. You’d think this would change his life for the better, but it would actually lead to his demise. Just like that, he was $31 million richer. ![]() His randomly selected six numbers matched those drawn by the Texas lottery. Suddenly, his luck seemed to turn around one evening as he sat in his living room, watching TV. Take Billie Bob Harrell Jr.: It’s 1997, and his years-long streak of layoffs has led him to work stocking shelves at Home Depot. Money can’t buy you happiness and winning the lottery could be the worst thing to ever happen to you.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |