Blogs on Teaching and Living in Thailand
Is Earning More Money Really Worth It?
Undoubtedly, your salary significantly influences your overall quality of life. It affects various aspects, ranging from the type of food you consume to your residential location and the vehicle you own. Nevertheless, these enhancements can only contribute to your happiness up to a certain extent.
According to Mark Kadin, an expert in well-being, money plays a role in our happiness when it helps fulfill our basic needs. However, research indicates that once a specific threshold is surpassed, additional money does not actually result in greater happiness. Kadin refers to a 2010 study conducted at Mahidol to support this claim. The study's data reveals that happiness levels tend to rise with salary until teachers reach an annual income of Baht 900,000. Beyond this point, the relationship between salary and happiness weakens.
An often overlooked aspect of our work that deserves attention - our mental well-being in the workplace. While we may prioritize our earnings as either a Native English Speaker (NES) or a Non-Native English Speaker (NNES), it's crucial to acknowledge the importance of having peace of mind.
As teachers, we face numerous challenges on a daily basis, and a stressful work environment can have a significant impact on our mental health. Therefore, it is crucial not to underestimate the importance of feeling comfortable and secure in our jobs and workplaces. Even if we come across a job offer at a different school that seems financially more attractive, it is worth considering whether compromising our peace of mind is worth it for a mere difference of 3,000 Baht. While the increase may appear significant in our monthly salary, it can lead to countless additional headaches and stressors.
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Blog by Sammy
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Note that the author of the blog is expressing personal thoughts and musings, which do not necessarily reflect those of KruTeacher. Therefore, KruTeacher.com cannot be held responsible for any potential inaccuracies that may be present in the blog.