The problem is that the modern world has tied it's happiness around money and physical assets, while these can bring satisfaction, they shouldn't be a hallmark of happiness. This is because once they are gone, happiness automatically disappears.
I think it does not depend on time but rather it depends on the person. There must still be people now that find happiness on simple things only and then there are people on the past who find happiness on money and physical assets. Whatever your happiness are, I think all of them are not permanent and even us are not permanent too. This is why it is important to enjoy them at the fullest.
True happiness should be from your everyday life and the relationship you have with people irrespective of social status and financial status.. this helps you see the good in people and the positives side of living away from the aspect of money.
I agree but there is a saying that we must follow our own happiness. Those happiness which tied on money and physical assets will still work hard. Isn't that great? I don't mean those who find happiness on simple things won't work hard anymore.