Business By Hormozi #121: Can Money Buy Happiness?

The Story of Liam and Noah: Two Paths to Happiness

Liam and Noah grew up in the same neighborhood but lived very different lives. Liam was raised in a wealthy family, where money was never a problem. He attended the best schools, traveled the world, and never had to worry about finances. Noah, on the other hand, came from a modest background. His family lived paycheck to paycheck, and he learned from an early age that happiness didn’t always come with a price tag.

As they grew older, their lives continued to reflect their upbringing. Liam pursued a high-paying corporate career, while Noah chose to work in a field he was passionate about, even if it didn’t make him rich.

The Illusion of Money as the Only Source of Happiness

Liam believed that financial success would guarantee happiness. He drove the best cars, wore designer clothes, and lived in a luxury apartment. But despite having everything money could buy, he often felt empty. The excitement of material possessions faded quickly, and he found himself chasing the next expensive thrill, hoping it would finally make him feel fulfilled.

Noah, on the other hand, had a simple life. He didn’t have the luxuries Liam enjoyed, but he found joy in small things—spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and appreciating the little moments in life. His happiness wasn’t tied to his bank account but to the connections and experiences he cultivated.

The Reality: Money Can Buy Happiness, But It’s Not the Only Way

One day, Liam and Noah met up for coffee. Liam, feeling frustrated, confided in Noah. “I have everything I ever wanted, but I don’t feel truly happy. I thought money would solve everything, but something’s missing.”

Noah smiled and replied, “Money can buy happiness, Liam. It can give you comfort, security, and access to amazing experiences. But happiness doesn’t have a price tag—it comes from what you do with what you have.”

Liam reflected on Noah’s words. He realized that while money could bring joy, it could also bring stress, isolation, and even misery if not used wisely. At the same time, people without money could also experience unhappiness.

That’s when it hit him—happiness and misery are not tied to wealth alone. They exist independently, and money is just a tool.

The Lesson: Money Is a Tool, Not the Answer

Liam started using his wealth differently. Instead of chasing material possessions, he invested in meaningful experiences, helped others, and focused on personal growth. He realized that while money could make life easier, it wasn’t a shortcut to happiness. Meanwhile, Noah continued finding joy in his simple life, proving that happiness wasn’t reserved for the wealthy.

Both Liam and Noah were right—money can buy happiness, but you can also get happiness for free. Money can buy misery, and you can also get misery for free. They’re not mutually exclusive.

The true key is knowing how to use what you have to build the life you want.