We’re obsessed with GDP, economic growth, and tax rates as the ultimate measures of a nation’s success. Almost every debate, every policy discussion seems to revolve around one question: “Will this put more money in our pockets?” There is nothing wrong with this per se, but is it the best conversation to solve the problems we have today?
What if we’re measuring the wrong things?
Money is just a tool – a means to an end. Yet somehow, we’ve made it the end itself. Do the economic metrics we use tell us enough about what truly matters in life?
There are countries with a soaring GDP while its citizens report record levels of loneliness, anxiety, and disconnection. People are miserable! Other countries have more modest economic numbers but boast strong community bonds, high levels of trust, and citizens who feel truly fulfilled.
Should we be discussing alternative measures of national success:
🇳🇿 The New Zealand government now presents a “wellbeing budget” that tracks mental health, environmental health, and community connection.
🇧🇹 Bhutan famously measures Gross National Happiness.
🗂️ The OECD Better Life Index looks at work-life balance, community support, and life satisfaction.
The question isn’t whether we should abandon economic metrics entirely. Rather, it’s about expanding our definition of success. What good is a full bank account if we’re too stressed and isolated to enjoy it?
Perhaps it’s time we started measuring what we truly value, rather than simply valuing what we can easily measure.
What do you think? How would your community’s priorities shift if we focused more on quality of life metrics rather than just economic ones?
