Why Money Matters Everything Everywhere in Today’s World

Here are five reasons

Indra Raj Pathak
ILLUMINATION
10 min readJul 28, 2023

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Photo by 金 运 on Unsplash

Money, the typical element that drives our world, has undeniably become the center of our existence. In this personal account, we will delve into the reasons why money has gained such prominence in our society. From the increasing complexities of modern life to the deep-rooted desires within us, the allure of money permeates every aspect of our lives.

Money holds significant importance because of its ability to provide various benefits, such as security, freedom, and to some extent, even good health and happiness. If one desires these and more, money serves as a valuable instrument to attain them, regardless of one’s aspirations and priorities in life. Money plays a crucial role in facilitating their realization.

Having financial resources grants the advantage of reducing the time spent on undesirable tasks, while allowing for an increase in time dedicated to preferred activities. This could involve investing quality time with loved ones or engaging in personal passions. The possession of wealth enables individuals to have control over how they allocate their time.

Money provides the capacity to engage in fulfilling and purposeful work. Rather than being stuck in an unfulfilling job solely for the sake of financial stability, individuals can choose to invest their time in endeavors they are truly passionate about.

In addition, financial resources afford individuals the opportunity to select their desired profession or, in certain cases, the option to quit work altogether. Picture the freedom of being able to leave a low-paying and stressful job that brings no satisfaction. Possessing wealth empowers individuals to exercise this freedom and pursue alternative paths.

In today’s world, it is hard to ignore the fact that money has become the most important thing everywhere you go. To support this claim, here are some convincing reasons to believe it:

1. The Pressure to Succeed: Society’s Expectations

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In today’s highly competitive world, success is often measured by one’s financial achievements. Society places an immense emphasis on material wealth, equating it with personal accomplishment and happiness. The pressure to keep up with societal expectations fuels the belief that money solves all our problems.

Money becomes important because of the pressure to succeed that is often created by society’s expectations. In many cultures, there is a widespread belief that success means achieving financial wealth, status, and recognition. This can create a sense of pressure and competition, especially among young people who are just starting their careers or trying to establish themselves in their chosen fields.

This pressure to succeed can come from many sources, including family, peers, media, and social norms. For example, parents may encourage their children to pursue high-paying careers or prestigious jobs, while friends may compare themselves to others based on their salaries or job titles. Media and advertising often promote the idea that material possessions and financial success are the ultimate markers of achievement and happiness.

As a result, many people feel they must achieve financial success in order to meet society’s expectations and avoid judgment or criticism. This can lead to a focus on financial goals at the expense of other important aspects of life, such as relationships, personal growth, and mental health.

It’s important to recognize that society’s expectations for success are not always healthy or realistic, and that there are many ways to define and achieve success. By focusing on your own values and goals, and working towards a sense of fulfillment and happiness that aligns with your unique perspective, you can break free from the pressure to conform and create a life that is true to who you are.

2. The Pursuit of Security and Stability

Money provides us with a sense of security and stability. With financial resources, we can safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from the uncertainties of life. We seek to accumulate wealth to create a safety net that shields us from potential hardships, offering a semblance of control and peace of mind.

Money is a medium of exchange and a store of value that enables us to gain the goods and services we need to live comfortably. Through our ability to earn, save, and invest money, we can secure our basic needs and enjoy a greater sense of stability in our lives.

Having a well-funded emergency fund is one of the key ways money provides us with a sense of security. This fund can cover unexpected expenses like medical emergencies, car repairs, or a sudden job loss. By having a cushion of cash to fall back on, we can avoid the stress and anxiety that comes with financial uncertainty.

Saving for retirement is another way that money provides us with a sense of stability. Owning a home is often seen as a symbol of financial stability. By owning a home, we have a tangible asset that can appreciate in value. This can provide us with a sense of security, knowing that we have a valuable asset that we can sell or borrow against if we need to.

Money provides us with a sense of security and stability by allowing us to meet our basic needs, build a cushion for unexpected expenses, and invest in our future. By managing our money wisely, we can enjoy a greater sense of financial security and peace of mind.

3. The Promise of Freedom and Opportunities

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Money opens doors to a world of opportunities. It grants us the freedom to pursue our passions, indulge in experiences, and explore new horizons. It affords us the chance to shape our own destiny and live life on our terms. The pursuit of financial prosperity is often driven by an innate desire for personal freedom and the ability to seize the opportunities that come our way.

In today’s fast-paced world, money plays a significant role in opening doors to a world of opportunities. It is a powerful tool that can provide individuals with the means to achieve their goals, pursue dreams, and experience a life filled with abundance.

Financial freedom gives individuals the ability to make choices and live life on their own terms. It provides a sense of security, enabling people to focus on personal growth and happiness, rather than constantly worrying about meeting basic needs.

Take the example of Sarah, a young professional who was trapped in a job she despised. With a steady income, she was struggling to make ends meet and had no savings. However, after a few years of disciplined saving and smart investment choices, Sarah built a substantial nest egg. This financial cushion allowed her to quit her job and pursue her passion for photography full-time. Today, she travels the world capturing breathtaking images and living a life filled with purpose.

Consider the story of John, a talented student with a passion for science. Despite his exceptional aptitude, his family struggled to afford the high tuition fees of a prestigious university. However, through scholarships and financial aid, John could secure a place at the institution of his dreams. The education he received enabled him to conduct groundbreaking research in his field and make significant contributions to society.

Take the example of Mark, who had a groundbreaking idea for a tech startup. With the help of investors and access to capital, he could launch his business and develop innovative products that revolutionized the industry. Today, Mark’s company employs hundreds of people and has become a market leader, all thanks to the initial financial support that opened the doors to his entrepreneurial journey.

Consider the story of Emily, a successful businesswoman who used her wealth to establish a foundation dedicated to providing education and healthcare to underprivileged children. Through her philanthropic efforts, Emily has touched the lives of countless children, giving them a chance at a brighter future.

Money truly opens doors to a world of opportunities. It provides individuals with the means to pursue their dreams, access quality education, become entrepreneurs, and make a positive impact on society.

4. The Influence of Consumerism and Materialism

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The longing for wealth is heavily influenced by the culture of consumerism and materialism. Consumerism is the tendency to purchase and use products and services, while materialism emphasizes the idea that material possessions are essential for social status and happiness.

People often spend significant amounts of money on extravagant items, such as expensive gadgets, designer clothing, and jewelry, to showcase their wealth and elevate their social position. To make their lives more convenient, individuals frequently rely on fast food and delivery services.

However, covering the costs associated with these conveniences leads to a greater need for money. This, coupled with the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, creates a strong sense of urgency for individuals. For example, some individuals may feel compelled to buy a specific type of vehicle or live in a particular neighborhood just to fit in with their friends and acquaintances.

This pressure, stemming from the desire to meet societal expectations, intensifies the craving for money as individuals strive to keep up with demands. The pursuit of products, services, and experiences that enhance social status and overall well-being has resulted in an amplified demand for money among individuals.

In today’s consumer-driven society, our desires are constantly fueled by advertisements and societal pressure. Material possessions have become markers of status and success, perpetuating the idea that money is the key to happiness. We are bombarded with messages that suggest the latest gadgets, luxury items, and experiences will bring us fulfillment, further solidifying the notion that money holds the key to our happiness.

5. The Impact of Rising Costs of Living

As the cost of living continues to rise, our reliance on money becomes even more pronounced. Basic necessities such as housing, healthcare, and education demand substantial financial resources. The need to meet these escalating expenses intensifies the importance of money in our day-to-day lives, leaving little room for anything else.

In our modern society, the rising costs of living have become a major concern for individuals and families alike. With these expenses continuing to escalate, it is crucial to understand the impact they have on the need for money. We will explore the various factors that contribute to the rise in money demand and the effects it has on our financial well-being. Inflation is one of the primary drivers behind the increased demand for money. As the prices of goods and services rise, individuals require more money to maintain their purchasing power. This is because of the decreasing value of money. With higher expenses, people find themselves in need of additional funds to meet their daily needs, resulting in a heightened demand for money.

Another area where the rising costs of living impact money demand is healthcare. Medical expenses, including insurance premiums, copayments, and prescription costs, have skyrocketed in recent times. As a result, individuals have to set aside more funds for healthcare-related expenses. This surge in demand for money to cover medical bills further contributes to the overall increase in money demand.

Transportation costs also play a significant role in the rising costs of living. As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, commuting expenses and the cost of vehicle maintenance have surged. Whether it be public transportation fares or owning a personal vehicle, individuals now require more money to cover these transportation expenses, thus further increasing money demand.

The importance of the money supply stems from its connection to the economy’s ability to produce goods and services. When the money supply increases faster than the economy, it leads to inflation. Conversely, if the money supply fails to grow adequately, it can lead to a decrease in production and ultimately result in higher unemployment rates.

Breaking Free: Reframing Our Perspective

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While money undeniably holds significant influence in our lives. But the wise say, “it is crucial to take a step back and reassess our relationship with it. We recognize that true happiness and fulfillment lie beyond material possessions, and that our worth is not solely determined by our financial standing.”

Pragmatically, such insights have become outdated. We need money to stay at a peaceful retreat. We need money to make our family happy to love and support our peace of mind. We need money to pay for our health insurance. We need money when we cannot earn for our livelihood. We need money for our cremation. These are the rituals in life that are a visible source of true happiness.

Ultimately, it is essential to balance the pursuit of financial stability and the pursuit of personal growth, relationships, and experiences that bring genuine joy. Money should be viewed as a tool to enhance our lives, rather than as the sole determinant of our happiness.

Let Us Conclude

Money has undoubtedly become everything in today’s world because of the pressures of society, our desire for security and stability, the promise of freedom and opportunities, the influence of consumerism, the rising costs of living, and the illusion of social validation. However, it is crucial to remember that money should not define our worth or overshadow the aspects of life that truly bring us happiness and fulfillment.

The need for money is strongly linked to a culture of consumerism and materialism. Consumerism is the cultural tendency to buy and use goods and services, whereas materialism is the belief that material possessions are crucial for happiness and social status. Many people desire to own high-end electronics, designer apparel, and jewelry, causing them to spend a lot of money. The need to boost their social status and display their wealth is what motivates their spending.

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Indra Raj Pathak
ILLUMINATION

Educationist, pragmatic, writer-poet by passion. Editor.