Understanding your finances can be as important to wellbeing as a large paycheck, according to new research that suggests financial clarity may even make holidays more enjoyable.
The study by Klarna found that predictable income was more strongly associated with life satisfaction than earnings alone, and being able to cover an unexpected bill was around twice as strongly linked to life satisfaction as income.
The Clarity Effect Study
Published today as The Clarity Effect, the research was carried out by leading behavioural scientists and explores how financial understanding affects happiness. Participants took part in a series of experiments where their finances remained the same but the information available to them changed.
Despite having identical circumstances, people who knew more about their money looked forward to future plans more, felt more in control and made fewer budgeting mistakes.
Experiments on Financial Awareness
In one experiment, people given a budgeting tool while planning a holiday felt more excited about their trip and imagined it more vividly. When subsequently asked to picture their holiday, those without the tool were almost four times as likely to think about money (11% versus 3%).
In another experiment, people awaiting a car repair bill felt more in control when told it would cost £200 rather than somewhere between £100 and £300, despite the expected cost being identical.
Expert Views on Financial Clarity
The research was carried out by Professor Paul Dolan of the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), supported by Professor Micael Dahlen of the Stockholm School of Economics.
“We tend to assume that people who keep track of their money are missing out on fun. Our research suggests the opposite: when you’re on top of your finances, your mind is free to wander to fun places, including future experiences,” he said. “Knowing where you stand isn’t boring, it’s what helps you free up headspace and boost wellbeing.”
Magnus Lindholm, head of consumer marketing at Klarna, added: “Financial tools should give people the clarity and confidence to make informed decisions, without money becoming a constant distraction. Like a good football referee, they should work in the background, stepping in when needed to keep things running smoothly.”
The research was carried out in collaboration with Headspace. Dr Jenna Glover, chief clinical officer for the mental health and mindfulness platform, added: “People often assume that earning more reduces stress, but psychologically what calms us is a sense of control. Financial clarity eases the mental load, giving you both the confidence you can cover the unexpected and the headspace to enjoy life to the fullest.”
How to Reduce the Money Mental Load
Keep everything in one place: Having income and bills organised in a single view helped people feel clearer about their finances.
Keep a running total: Tracking spending against a budget reduced the risk of overspending and helped people look forward to future plans.
Confirm costs upfront: Knowing the exact amount of a bill helped people feel more in control. Ask for fixed quotes and confirm costs early wherever possible.
Stay informed, but don't over-check: While knowing where you stand can improve wellbeing, frequently checking your balance was linked to greater worry rather than happiness.
