Everyone has heard of the American Dream, which for many means having a big house, an expensive car, and a good job. But a survey has revealed that attitudes toward success in the US are changing and material possessions are less important than before.
Of the nearly 2, 200 US adults who were surveyed, 61 percent said they define other people's success by their happiness levels, not their money. And most people think that health, a good relationship, and an enjoyable job, rather than a well-paid one are the top five important things to personal success.
It is the financial crisis (财政危机) helped people to realize what is really important in their life.
Peter, a US citizen, is one of them. In 2007, when he was 29, Peter was earning $100, 000 (605,112yuan) a month and owned several houses and cars. When the financial crisis hit in 2009, he lost everything. But instead of feelingdevastated, Peter found happiness. "I began to realize the things I had overlooked(忽略): my children, my health, and my friends. And the best part of it was this was all free," he said, "I was actually ashamed I had made so much money but I never helped anyone but myself. I could have done so many positive things with the money I have."
"Happiness can be bought," a professor from Harvard University said, "if you spend the money on life experiences and other people. The more you devoted, the more you get back."
