Higher salary but lower mental peace? CA reveals why many high earners still struggle
Apr 10, 2025
Synopsis
Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik highlights the often-overlooked downsides of high income in a viral X post. He explains how higher earnings can lead to lifestyle inflation, mental burnout, and strained relationships. Kaushik emphasizes that true financial success lies not in how much you earn, but in how well you manage it—stressing the importance of mindful spending, balanced living, and long-term financial planning.
In a world where success is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, many are beginning to realize that a higher salary doesn’t always bring greater peace of mind. Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik recently shed light on the lesser-known struggles faced by high earners in a widely shared post on X (formerly Twitter).
“More Money, More Problems? Not if You Handle it Right!” Kaushik wrote, kicking off a thread that explored the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany financial growth.
Lifestyle Inflation: The Quiet Trap
Kaushik points to “lifestyle creep” as one of the first hidden consequences of earning more. As income increases, so do expenses. People tend to upgrade their lifestyle—bigger homes, better cars, more vacations—but forget to increase their savings. “A bigger paycheck often leads to bigger expenses, not more savings,” he warned.
This pattern often results in a cycle where, despite a higher income, individuals feel just as financially stressed as before, or even more. This is because their spending habits grow in step with their income, leaving them no better off in terms of financial stability.
Mental and Emotional Strain
Another major concern highlighted by Kaushik is the mental toll that comes with chasing financial success. He cautions that “chasing money without balance can burn you out.” The pressure to earn more, outperform peers, or maintain a certain lifestyle can lead to anxiety, sleepless nights, and overall dissatisfaction.
This burnout isn’t just about long hours or high workloads—it’s often tied to the emotional burden of trying to meet financial and societal expectations. In many cases, the quest for more ends up costing people their mental health.
Relationships at Risk
Financial stress doesn't just affect individuals—it spills over into their relationships. “Financial pressure can create distance in personal life,” Kaushik noted. Strained conversations around money, lack of time for loved ones, and growing expectations can lead to emotional disconnect and reduced quality time with family and friends.
The Real Wealth
Kaushik concludes his message with a powerful reminder: “It’s not just about how much you earn, but how well you manage it.” He encourages smart financial planning, mindful spending, and a focus on long-term freedom rather than short-term status.
“The real flex? Smart money habits, mindful spending, and a plan that ensures freedom—not just income. Wealth isn’t just numbers. It’s peace of mind.”
In essence, while a higher salary can offer more opportunities, it can also bring unspoken pressures. As Kaushik emphasizes, true wealth is not about income alone—it's about managing money in a way that brings both financial and emotional stability.
[The Economic Times]
