Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness

Money: Can we talk about it?

This week’s episode of Beyond the Hustle was all about money - one of the most powerful, misunderstood, and often uncomfortable topics out there. Whether we’re chasing it, judging others for having too much of it, or wishing we had more, money affects every single one of us.

Jess and I sat down to kōrero about the myths, mindsets, and emotions wrapped up in money. Why have we made this such a tapu topic? And how can we change the way we think about money so that it becomes a tool for empowerment, rather than a source of stress?

Money Isn’t the Root of All Evil

One of the phrases we unpacked was “money is the root of all evil.” It’s a saying we’ve all heard, but is it true?

I don’t think it is. Money, in my view, is just a resource - a tool that gives us utility. It doesn’t change who you are, instead, it amplifies who you are.

So if you’re kind and generous, having more money gives you the ability to do more good. If you’re selfish or greedy, it’ll magnify that too.

Money itself isn’t evil. The real issue is how people choose to use it (and also what some people do to acquire it)

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees (Or Does It?)

We also talked about the saying, “money doesn’t grow on trees.” It’s one of those lessons many of us heard growing up, teaching us to value hard work and not waste money. I totally agree with this part!

But I also think this plants the idea that money is scarce. The truth? Well I think there’s an abundance of money out there - it;’s just that most of us don’t know the cheat codes or have all the necessary skills to access it. What if, instead of seeing money as a rare resource, we reframed our thinking and saw money more like leaves on a trees? In other words, it’s plentiful - and actually if you want more of it, the real trick becomes learning how to plant more trees?

Time Is Money

One of the most interesting parts of our kōrero was about how we value time. Time is the great equaliser - we all get the same 24 hours in a day. So, how do we spend those hours?

We realised that outsourcing tasks like folding the washing or cooking dinner, could free up time to focus on what really matters - quality moments with whānau or pursuing your passions.

Yes, it costs money to pay for that time (and people around you might think you’re a pompus you know what if had someone fold your washing each week) but isn’t it worth it if it gives you memories and experiences that last a lifetime?

And by the way, think of all the things we already outsource without really thinking about it. I don’t think I’ve milked a cow - I outsource that to the dairy farmer and I pay for that pleasure. Food for thought.

You Can’t Take It With You

We also touched on the idea that “you can’t take it with you.” It’s true - money won’t follow you to the grave. But does that mean we should spend it all while we are alive?

For me, it’s about balance. I want to enjoy life, create memories, and spend money on the people and things I love. But I also want to build intergenerational wealth for my whānau. Not just in dollars and cents, but in knowledge and opportunities for my tamariki and mokopuna.

Does Money Buy Happiness?

Here’s a controversial one: does money buy happiness?

This one caused a bit of disagreement and I said that for anyone who is struggling - like really struggling financially to keep the lights on and put kai on their table - if you tell them “money doesn’t buy happiness” don’t be surprised if they punch you in the face.

Let’s be real, the answer is clear - money absolutely can buy relief, stability, and a better quality of life. But will it cure grief or anxiety, or bring back a loved one? Of course not.

Happiness isn’t about the numbers in your bank account. It’s about how you use your money to create joy, freedom, and impact. It’s about spending it in ways that align with your values and bring meaning to your life. So I think it can absolutely buy happiness, but it won’t solve your problems.

This episode isn’t just about money - it’s about perspective. It’s about challenging the way we think about wealth, unpacking the emotions tied to it, and finding ways to use money as a tool for good.

If any of this was interesting, you can check out the full episode here.

Ngā mihi

Anton