After the birthday celebration of my wife’s nephew, we visited the other side of the island. That beach was not as spectacular as the popular one on the other side but still, it was a great experience to explore that part of the island.
To my surprise, the people here are more friendly than in my country. They smile and they say hello. According to my wife it is just because I am a foreigner. Well, I am not sure but the locals seem to be in a better mood.
I think a certain level of financial stability can contribute to happiness by providing for basic needs and reducing stress, but money is not the only thing that can lead to happiness. Many people who have limited financial resources or live in poverty find happiness and contentment through various means.
Based on my observation, those people who live in a poorer financial environment in the Philippines have stronger social bonds and a sense of togetherness. People here support each other emotionally and provide a sense of belonging and purpose, which can lead to greater happiness. I can see how closely knit the families are here. The family members support each other.
I think some people here may appreciate the freedom from material possessions and they focus on more meaningful aspects of life. People with fewer resources may have a greater sense of gratitude for the little they have. Gratitude can lead to contentment and happiness.
In the streets, I often see children playing sports with each other. I think these children live for their passions, which are free from our modern days’ electronic world, which is a good thing. They engage in outdoor activities, exercise, or mindfulness practices, which do not require significant financial resources.
As far as I know, salaries are lower here than in Europe but it seems to me that the people here have found fulfilment in their jobs, even if they are not highly paid and this way, they can experience happiness through their work.
Another thing is this beautiful environment, the marvellous nature and the fact that it is always warm here – you do not need to heat, you do not need to wear warm clothes. It is always sunny, which gives you a positive feeling.
So what I can say is that happiness is not solely dependent on wealth or material possessions. While money can provide opportunities and alleviate some sources of stress, it does not guarantee happiness.