It is possible to be more materially poorer and happier than a US citizen by changing the deal society makes for them from one of high consumption and high prec

It is possible to be more materially poorer and happier than a US citizen by changing the deal society makes for them from one of high consumption and high precarity (meaning uncertain job, high cost of housing, expensive transportation, roll of the dice hospital bills) to one of lower consumption and higher social solidarity (meaning less gas, less fancy stuff, less packaging, possibly fewer exotic foods, but secure food, jobs, housing, medical care, and a society that isn't socially alienating). Obviously, the more materially rich your society is, the better the latter deal is, but happiness comes from feelings of safety, not being overworked, and solid social ties.