The question is intentionally vague but its a ‘concept question’. My theory is that more information about everyone else’s actual ‘work’, pay and benefits is actually the largest driver of discontent and unhappiness.
I base this idea on a true life example and I have seen similar situations elsewhere. My brother bought a plot of land, built his own house, started his family and was happy for many years. We talked all the time about everything from construction to caring for our children. However, a few years ago he started reading, listening and learning about how the people in power control SO MUCH money and now he barely talks to anyone, is always ranting and is generally unhappy. And this is despite his regular day-to-day income, lifestyle, etc. being the same.
So with new knowledge about what others have, even though your life/income/family has not changed, does that now mean your life/income/family have have suddenly become worse? My brother’s answer would be ‘yes’.