Japanese mindset of the day by Haruki Murakami : As people pursue higher incomes, better careers, and financial security, success is often measured by the amount of money they accumulate. For many people, the pursuit of money is closely tied to the pursuit of happiness. Better-paying jobs, larger homes, and financial security are often seen as milestones of success. Yet despite these achievements, many people continue to struggle with stress, long working hours, and the feeling that there is never enough time to enjoy life. But Japanese author Haruki Murakami offers a perspective that shifts the focus away from wealth itself. In his view, the greatest benefit of having money is not the ability to buy expensive things but the freedom to live life on your own terms and the time to enjoy what truly matters.