This paper examines the relationship between economic performance and happiness in Western countries. It uses data on reported happiness, life satisfaction, job satisfaction, and suicide rates to explore how economic growth affects well-being. The findings suggest that while economic progress may lead to a slight increase in happiness, the impact is minimal. Unemployment is identified as a significant source of unhappiness, and the paper argues that governments should focus on reducing unemployment rather than solely on economic growth. The paper also discusses the limitations of happiness surveys and the potential biases in interpreting the data. Overall, the paper concludes that economic growth does not significantly enhance national well-being, challenging the common belief that economic prosperity automatically leads to greater happiness.This paper examines the relationship between economic performance and happiness in Western countries. It uses data on reported happiness, life satisfaction, job satisfaction, and suicide rates to explore how economic growth affects well-being. The findings suggest that while economic progress may lead to a slight increase in happiness, the impact is minimal. Unemployment is identified as a significant source of unhappiness, and the paper argues that governments should focus on reducing unemployment rather than solely on economic growth. The paper also discusses the limitations of happiness surveys and the potential biases in interpreting the data. Overall, the paper concludes that economic growth does not significantly enhance national well-being, challenging the common belief that economic prosperity automatically leads to greater happiness.