Possessing significant resources, as the analysis of the cited materials shows, creates a paradoxical pressure in which material well-being itself becomes a source of internal contradictions and social obligations.

The Weight of Wealth: The Paradox of Unfulfilled Success

Possessing significant resources, as the analysis of the cited materials shows, creates a paradoxical pressure in which material well-being itself becomes a source of internal contradictions and social obligations. On one hand, increasing wealth leads to a situation where even small achievements no longer satisfy, as ever-higher expectations arise—as if each victory merely raises the bar for the next. In " link txt" a situation is described where a rich person, gripped by a thirst for profit, begins to feel that "the small sums that once delighted him no longer satisfy," and that achieving satisfaction requires ever greater amounts, which ultimately leads to "dissatisfaction, painful discord, and a tormented spirit." This internal mechanism—where acquired wealth constantly becomes the measure of success—transforms riches into a burden.

On the other hand, possessing significant resources intensifies social expectations and comparisons, imposing external control and pressure on the individual. In " link txt" an example is given of a person who, despite having every comfort, faces the necessity of being noticed and evaluated by certain standards: he is compared with others, and every detail—from respect at work to timely promotions—becomes an indicator of his social significance. This circumstance forces constant comparisons of one's accomplishments with those of others, sparking a sense of inner insecurity and an unrelenting search for new confirmation of self-worth.

Thus, significant material resources primarily elevate expectations both from society and in one's own self-assessment. At the same time, the constant comparison with others and the realization that even substantial achievements are insufficient for complete satisfaction create an additional psychological burden. This leads to the impression that material goods do not contribute to lasting happiness but rather pave the way for an endless cycle of demands and comparisons, which ultimately become the source of inner discord and discontent.

Supporting citation(s):
"One cannot calmly enjoy the results of one’s victories because he feels that the envy and malice of vanquished opponents lurk everywhere... And once again, there is dissatisfaction, painful discord, and the torment of the spirit." (source: link txt)

"And of course, so that one is respected at work, receives a timely bonus—not more than everyone else, but not less either... But then it immediately turned out that the necessary means for all this were lacking; the phosphoric light failed to find an environment to settle in, and I was overwhelmed by a crushing powerlessness and a feeling of shame for the unfulfilled duty." (source: link txt)