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fourth
  Will Earning More
Make You Happier?

 
 
 

Can money buy career happiness? Not necessarily, according to a recent study in Science magazine, which shows that 61% of people earning less than $20,000 a year report being "pretty happy" compared to about 52% whose annual income exceeds $90,000.

WHAT TO DO: Take this quiz to determine if you're ready to quit your job. Research industries that offer career attributes you value. If you enjoy helping others cope with illness, investigate what it's like to be a social worker at a hospital. Or you may want to learn about diversity-focused jobs. Find out which careers earn respect and learn about some that don't require a four-year degree. Review five ways to change careers and how to find an easy job. Bear in mind the obstacles to changing careers in midlife. If you pursue an M.B.A., switching professions may be less difficult. Factor in the cons to a field, such as the heavy travel associated with being a management consultant. Learn more about careers by setting up informational interviews or networking with professionals.

Can't Buy Me Happiness

Percentage of people, by family income 2004, answering the question "Taken all together, how would you say things are these days -- would you say that you are very happy, pretty happy, or not too happy?"

RESPONSE Under $20,000 $20,000-$49,999 $50,000-$89,999 $90,000 and over
Not too happy 17.2% 13.0% 7.7% 5.3%
Pretty happy 60.5% 56.8% 50.3% 51.8%
Very happy 22.2% 30.2% 41.9% 42.9%
Source: Science

Email your comments to sarah.needleman@wsj.com.

-- July 21, 2006


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