Maybe we all should try to find happiness or fullfilment outside of how much money we make
True, I think this is a valid point, BUT it is a bit difficult to do this when you're always at bloody work.
I for one would happily give up the increase if I could only work my contracted hours and get my 42 days leave to pursue things which increase my happiness. However the reality is I have avergaged 95 hrs block (115 - 130Hrs Credit!!!!!!) for the last six months and spend a good deal of my time off just trying to fell human.
So it's not all about money but unfortunately thay don't get it