Is it OK to be poor? What the research says about poverty and wellbeing

In the years since the global financial crisis, an increasing number of people have been asking whether it’s possible to be happy when you’re poor. And if not, is there anything that can help us feel better in our reduced circumstances? After all, what’s the point of having money if you can’t enjoy anything because your stress levels are that of being stalked by a hungry tiger?

In response to this concern, numerous studies have emerged over recent years which confirm that poverty has a negative impact on wellbeing. Even so-called ‘happy poor’ people suffer from the strain of trying to get by on a small income, constantly aware of how fortunate others are in comparison.

Moreover, there is evidence that money actually buys happiness—but only up to an annual income of $75,000. Any further than that and it does not make much difference.

Therefore, if you don’t fit into either category and need a little more cash in your pocket, then read on for some useful advice about being poor and happy at the same time.

Go to school

If you have enough money to get a good education, then your life is going to be a lot easier. This doesn’t mean that you have to go to Oxford or Cambridge, but simply that you should try to get a qualification that improves your career prospects.

For example, if you work in IT, then it’s highly likely that you’ll be paid more than someone who is working as a bricklayer. The same rule applies to other jobs, and if you’re suitably qualified, then you should get a higher salary for the same work.

This is not only beneficial for your financial situation, but also for your mental health. Being poor often means long hours of work and not enough time to relax and unwind from the day. A degree or other qualification gets you out of the rat race and into a more comfortable lifestyle where you can be indoors a little more.

Help your friends and family

Carrying a heavy debt load can take a toll on your mental health. Fortunately, this can be reduced by helping your friends and family out. If you can offer to lend a few bucks to those who are struggling financially, then that is a great way to reduce your burden.

With this type of help, you can get something in return, such as an item they no longer need, or a favor that you can repay later on, such as a free babysitting service. In either case, it is a mutually beneficial arrangement, and it can help you with your cash flow.

It is important to remember, however, that you shouldn’t do this if you cannot afford it. Taking on a lot of financial responsibility is not a good idea, even if it is to help out your family. Still, it is a great way of taking the pressure off your shoulders, and it can help you stay happy.

Eat healthy foods

When you are poor, eating healthy and fresh food can be difficult. However, this is something that you should try your best to do. If you can eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, you’ll feel more energized throughout the day.

Healthy foods also have a positive impact on your mental health. If your diet is full of junk food, you’ll be more likely to experience anxiety and mood disorders. This is because these products contain a lot of sugar, which has been proven to increase feelings of anxiety.

However, if you swap out your sugary snacks for fresh vegetables and fruits, you’ll notice a significant difference in your mood and energy levels. Not only will you feel healthier, but you’ll also be able to think more clearly, which is important for anyone who works in a cognitive profession!

Exercise regularly

If you can afford to, getting a membership to a gym is a great idea. This will give you the opportunity to exercise regularly and improve your fitness level. Exercising regularly has been shown to improve your mental health by reducing anxiety and stress.

By improving your fitness, you’ll be able to work longer and harder, meaning you’ll be able to earn more money. In addition to helping you financially, this can also help you stay happy.

Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that help to improve your mood. This means that exercising regularly can not only make you happier, but it can also help with anxiety and depression.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to do this. In fact, it’s possible to achieve the same results by simply walking more.

Develop a sense of humor

If you haven’t got a sense of humor, then it might be worth investing in one. A good sense of humor can make all the difference when it comes to feeling happy when you’re poor.

This doesn’t mean that you should be laughing at other people’s expense, but rather that you should be laughing at the situations you’re in. For example, if you are struggling to pay your bills, you should find humor in the ridiculous predicament you’re in.

It’s also worth remembering that your situation is not going to last forever. By taking a more positive outlook on your current financial situation, you’re likely to feel happier.

This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t try to improve your situation. It simply means that you should be careful not to worry too much about it. Worrying is not going to improve your situation. Instead, finding the humor in the situation will help you feel better.

Poverty has a negative impact on wellbeing, but there are things you can do to ease the strain. If you can go to school, get a good job, eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and develop a sense of humor, it will help you stay happy even if you're poor.

However, it is important to note that you can still be happy when you're poor. There are many ways to stay positive and make the most of your situation, no matter how limited your resources are. With a bit of creativity, there are ways to enjoy life even when you're broke!