John D. Rockefeller had a fortune worth $900 million during his lifetime. Adjusted for inflation, this amount equates to roughly $29 billion. Today. One source of his wealth was the Standard Oil Company, which had a virtual monopoly and was broken up by the government in 1911. Many of today's oil companies have their roots in the division of the Standard Oil Company.
Despite his enormous wealth, Rockefeller gave a surprising answer to a journalist who asked how much money he needed. Rockefeller replied: “Just a Little More” – writes focus.de.
After more than 100 years, it is difficult to say clearly what Rockefeller had in mind. Was he driven by greed? Or was he being ironic, making it clear that he thought the question was stupid?
The reporter's question assumes that a certain amount of money will bring complete satisfaction. Rockefeller's response humorously showed this to be a naive assumption. Rockefeller was probably wise enough to know that material possessions could never bring lasting happiness.
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Rockefeller did not pursue wealth for its own sake. He donated large sums to charity, funding education, medical research, the arts, and much more. He did not use his wealth for selfish purposes, but to serve society, says the portal.
John D. Rockefeller found a way to happiness?
It is worth remembering Rockefeller's words. If we never stop, but always strive for the next goal, always wanting “a little more”, we will never achieve it. This applies to sports, career and money. There will always be someone who has more, is more successful or is better.
Especially when it comes to money: it can be used in two ways. First, as a means to a better life. Secondly, as a measure of one's status compared to others. Many people spend their lives chasing the latter. Money is so tangible that it is an easy goal to achieve.
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Happiness is “lagom”? Rockefeller already knew this
Therefore, it is important not only to focus on the next goal, but also to look back at the path already traveled. For example, in moments of dissatisfaction and self-doubt, I imagine being invited back to my old university and having to tell the students what happened to me after graduating. When I think about what I would say, I always remember how far I have come. And I believe that if I, a 23-year-old, were sitting in this lecture hall, I would be impressed, writes Clemens Schömann-Finck, a journalist from focus.de.
He adds that this leads him to the word “lagom”. It comes from Swedish and means roughly: neither too much nor too little, just right. It means balance.
Ultimately, that's what a happy, fulfilling life is all about. What matters is not success or the amount of money in your account, but recognizing your lagom.
Source: focus.de
