“Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.”
— Jim Rohn

It’s a question that comes up quietly, often when we’re making decisions that seem small on the surface. Should I take that extra shift? Should I spend the weekend working or resting? Should I chase a bit more income, or protect my time?

The trade-off between time and money isn’t just practical — it’s emotional. And it’s one we all face.

Researchers have looked into this. In a study of over 4,600 people, those who consistently valued time over money reported greater happiness. Another study followed university graduates for a year and found that those who prioritized time chose more fulfilling paths — and were happier as a result.

That doesn’t mean money isn’t important. It pays the bills, reduces stress, and opens doors. But when money comes at the cost of time — especially time spent on things that matter — the gain can feel hollow.

Sometimes, the decision is about a few extra hours of work at night. The pay might be higher, but the cost is energy, sleep, and the quiet hours that could be spent creating, connecting, or simply resting. Other times, it’s about choosing to build something — a project, a business, a podcast — that doesn’t pay yet, but feels meaningful.

There’s no universal answer. But the research suggests that when we choose time — especially time spent intentionally — we tend to feel more satisfied. Not because we’re avoiding work, but because we’re investing in something deeper.

So the next time you’re weighing a choice between time and money, it might help to ask:
Will this make me richer in experience, or just richer in currency?

Source: American Psychological Association – Time vs. Money Study