Using a variety of measures – comparing GDP to indicators like life expectancy, suicide, and time spent commuting – John Stutz and Erica Mintzer examine the correlations between affluence and well-being. It shows that in the early stages of rising income, affluence does correlate with well-being, but at a certain point wellbeing levels flatten out. At high levels the trend can reverse. This affluence paradox may hold a key to sustainability. Beyond a certain point, we can stop consuming and improve well-being. Self-interest – properly understood – can become a driver for sustainability.