Final answer:
Rational planning and sustainable living are highlighted as means to achieve long-term peace of mind, as opposed to short-lived financial decisions based on immediate emotions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question seems to revolve around the concept of valuing peace of mind over material wealth and how individuals perceive and handle money. The idea that people think money will bring them happiness is contested by the suggestion that a shift towards seeking peace of mind could be more beneficial in the long term. The given excerpts indicate that our perception of money's value can be influenced by the context in which it is acquired, as well as by our long-term life and financial goals. For example, finding $25 on the street may trigger a different emotional and economic response compared to earning the same amount through work.
When it comes to sustainable living and setting ultimate goals, the example of having $100,000 under your mattress illustrates the importance of thinking ahead. Rather than spending it hastily, planning for future needs and rationalizing expenses can contribute to long-term security and peace of mind, furthering the contrast between immediate gratification and mindful financial planning. This approach encourages us to think and act more reasonably instead of being ruled by emotional impulses when managing our finances.