I've read that too, but the truth is that it doesn't really protect you from the real insidious effects of that level of money being dropped onto you at once.

I've read that too, but the truth is that it doesn't really protect you from the real insidious effects of that level of money being dropped onto you at once. For instance: what do you tell your friends when you suddenly move into a big house? When you retire from your job? How does it affect your motivation to pursue your interests when money is no longer a concern and never will be again? I like to think I could manage to make it a positive thing, if that kind of money was dropped into my lap. I have a family who deserves more of my time, I have a ton of hobbies and projects I'd like to spend more time on. I have simple tastes for the most part and I think I could stay reasonably grounded. But still, it would be a big adjustment, and I can see how people have their lives ruined. Maybe a better way to state my point: the famous lottery post is great advice for making sure your life doesn't get ruined by outside forces, but it can't help you with the internal forces of your own mind/brain/soul.