By Alexander Green My recent columns on “How Much Is Enough?” generated more reader responses than any others over the past year.
Commentary – inevitably – was quite diverse since there is no single “right answer” to the question.
In fact, only one respondent offered a hard number. Reader Tom B. said that after many conversations on the subject, he and his wife decided that $1.2 million was the minimum needed for their retirement.
Other readers emphasized that “the amount” depends on an individual’s chosen lifestyle. Some got political, especially about the subject of economic inequality. Others took a decidedly philosophical tone.
I’m always spouting my opinions here. Today readers have the floor, uninterrupted – at least for now – by my commentary.
Here is a sampling of responses, lightly edited for length or clarity…
How much is enough? Part 1: You have enough financial security that you do not have to shortcut your values to live a reasonable life. Part 2: You have enough financial security that you can be truly authentic and bold in your profession. Part 3: You have enough financial security that you can radically change your decision making. – David P.
Money is the lubrication of life. Not having enough money for basic needs is like throwing sand into the gears of life. Contentment requires not complaining about who has more – and certainly not looking down on those who have less. Jealousy and envy are destructive and drain a person’s initiative, determination and stamina… all necessary components for the long haul. – Jim T.
Life is about choosing where you live and what you do. You can be the author of such a life. And if you choose wisely, you will have more wealth than any portfolio can amass. – Rich F.
If you have the freedom to follow your passions, you have enough. If money is your passion, you’ll never have enough. – Albert B.
People who envy another person’s success might find it convenient to apply “greed” to the other person’s motivation, especially when they view the situation from a distance and have no knowledge of specifics. I believe successful people are driven more by determination to succeed, a strong competitive spirit, and the desire to build productive and respected organizations. – Ken D.
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The more you make, the more you want. The more you want, the more you spend. Inequality has been around forever. I don’t believe that will ever change. – Melissa B.
I do not believe in some “expert” or “bureaucrat” having the power to decide or tell me what I should be or do with my life. Why should someone else tell me what is enough? – Robert S.
Seeking financial independence is neither greedy nor selfish. As I move more toward that goal, it allows me to help family and friends. It also allows more giving of time to church and charity. I can’t see how that is a bad thing on any level. – Jim O.
“Enough” is when you reach contentment. Contentment comes from not comparing yourself to others or what they have. A car is a car; a house is a house… unless …read more
Source:: Investment You
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