With the ongoing rise in international economy, the Easterlin Paradox is not uncommon among nations, especially in developed ones. Therefore, much discussions have been rightly devoted to understanding the root causes of this complex duality: an affluent background but a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction among residents. This essay will dig into the triggers of this phenomenon, including competitive environment and the unacceptance mindset, as well as reaching lessons of a balanced lifestyle.
The fact that unhappy residents is rooted in an interplay of factors, but can be attributed primarily to the competitive nature of economic fields. In essence, along with the incredible innovations and advancements, economic growth also fosters competition among laborers. Plus, it is virtually impossible to acknowledge individual status among peers, if not, in the world of eight billion people. These potentially lead to the mindset of unacceptance, thereby people being trapped into a financial rat race. Hardly anyone can deny that providing daily sustenance is becoming challenging more than ever before. The unwanted effects are severe, with individuals struggling to meet the sky-high societal demands and working days and nights without a pause.
At the heart of the combat against this issue is the need to prioritize healthcare. Despite the knowledge that health is paramount to individual development, people often place it behind the financial demand. This mindset can cause untold suffering to health, if not the medical demands and unprecedented emergencies that compound the burdens. The key to addressing this is encapsulated in the saying: “Preventing is better than curing”. Mindful strategies for time management and energy control is the most practical approaches. Furthermore, regular exercises and nutritious diets should be added into the lifestyle. Only then can people appreciate the wonderful experience that economic growth brings, and only then does they achieve a fulfilling life.
In brief, the dissatisfaction among residents in developed countries can be attributed to the competitive environment and the relative comparisons. Without urgent intervention, the problems might be dire. Hence, I firmly believe that individuals should follow a healthier lifestyle that is balanced between materialism and mentalism, for the sake of personal advancements and the holistic well-being of society.