The Impact of Philosophies on Life: Lessons Learned

Throughout life, we often adopt and follow certain philosophies that we believe will bring us happiness, security, or success. However, these beliefs may not always align with reality, leading to unexpected and often negative outcomes. In this article, we will explore two such philosophies—money buys happiness and critical thinking—and how they have impacted my personal life in unforeseen ways.

The Myth of Money Buying Happiness

When I was 18 years old, the idea that money equates to happiness seemed almost too good to be true. Despite my lack of social skills and job experience, I believed that gaining employment and earning a steady income would finally bring me the joy and satisfaction I so desperately sought after.

After multiple interview rejections, my efforts paid off when I secured a job at Amazon as a warehouse associate. Despite the good pay, I soon joined the Air Force, hoping the security provided by a military career—ranging from a stable salary to healthcare and education benefits—would finally make me happy. However, my experiences in both roles taught me that happiness is more complex than simply having money.

Toxic Leadership and Stress

The Air Force offered a sense of security in terms of financial stability and benefits, yet the toxic leadership and the nature of the job itself brought me immense stress. The physical and mental strain from the job, coupled with the constant state of dread as I faced the tasks ahead, took a toll on my health. My blood pressure consistently hovered around 155/90, and my mental well-being deteriorated to the point where I often harbored thoughts of suicide.

Reflecting on these experiences, I realized that financial stability is only one aspect of a fulfilling life. Money can provide freedom and comfort, but true happiness comes from doing what you love, maintaining healthy relationships, and finding purpose in your work. Money is a piece of the puzzle, but other elements play equally critical roles in achieving contentment.

The Struggle with Critical Thinking

Another philosophy that has significantly impacted my life is critical thinking. While normally a positive trait, the act of critically analyzing every aspect of life has led to a growing dissatisfaction and a heightened tendency to criticize even the positive elements. This shift began when I delved into the realm of critical thinking and realized the potential of this skill.

Critical thinking presented itself as a powerful tool for evaluating information and making informed decisions. However, it almost paradoxically turned into a double-edged sword, as I found myself nitpicking and finding faults in even the most seemingly positive situations. This constant state of analysis and criticism made previously enjoyable experiences less fulfilling. Life, once full of joy and simplicity, became a relentless battle of finding what could be improved.

Lessons From the Journey

Reflecting on both of these experiences, I have come to understand that true happiness comes from a balanced approach to life. It involves more than just monetary rewards or intellectual exercises; it includes social connections, good health, and fulfilling work. Money and critical thinking can be valuable, but they must be combined with a holistic perspective to lead a truly fulfilling life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the philosophies of money buys happiness and critical thinking have taught me valuable lessons about the complexities of life. While both can be positive in their rightful places, overemphasizing them can lead to dissatisfaction and stress. By adopting a more balanced and holistic view, we can cultivate a sense of true happiness and fulfillment.