The theory of diminishing return states that in a certain system of production, after some level the increase in the variable input does not result in additional increase in the output1. This is why the first bite of nachos is never quite as good as the last, even after a trashcan lid full, and it explains why I am more satisfied by a small milkshake than an extra large one for only 49 cents more. The idea of more product means more satisfaction is false, but easy to sell. There is a point where I am glutted from too much frozen drink or too large of a steak or bored with too much time on my hands (okay, its been a while since I've had too much time on my hands).
Satisfaction is easier to find in moderation than excess. Also I've noticed that it is easier to be satisfied in doing something than in getting something. I am alot more satisfied that I ate a 24 ounce steak than I was eating the 24th ounce of steak. I am more satisfied that I stood on top of 4km of mountain than I am with the truck that I drive, though I do like my truck. Nothing compares with being a father. I cant think of some thing that would give me the type of fulfillment of my identity that I could acquire along the way.
There is a joke among Paramedics and EMT's that management couldn't pay us enough.... so they don't try. But the truth is that despite the lost wages, had I done something else, I would much rather have spent the last 8 years on an ambulance and in an ER. I would probably have a better house and a nicer truck... but, so what? Nothing that I could do would give me the type of satisfaction as being an EMT and now a Paramedic (hopefully soon, RN). No stuff that I could have bought, or vacations taken. The value of things diminish over time, but experiences compound and become more rich. I would rather have little and done much than the opposite.
1. http://finance.mapsofworld.com/savings/factors/diminishing-return.html
