Nice post! A thoughtful approach to a complex topic.

Have you seen this TED talk - "What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KkKuTCFvzI. In summary, science confirms your friendship point.

Science also supports doing what we love over chasing money. Pretty famous Dan Pink talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6XAPnuFjJc (The surprising truth about what motivates us).

The one major thing that I would add is having a practice to find mental peace within. There is no escaping our fears, cravings, and other psychological issues. Developing a practice for our mental hygiene is critical. Would definitely fall into Buddhist philosophy and I’m sure others.

Anyway, great piece. Thank you for discussing the topic so thoughtfully!