In most places I have traveled too, like Brazil for example, people feel good and are generally happy. Even though they don't have the best living condition. I think in the individualistic societies, people are taught more about achievement and productivity because people get their sense of pride through those things. While in tight-knight communities, people don't get their happiness from material things, possessions, and status, mostly from relationships, families and friendships. They don't feel guilty feeling good and so they are generally content with their lives.

But I see there's always the bad side. Because some people tend to be unproductive or lazy, or living moment by moment until there's literally nothing but time on their hands lol. While the workaholics in advanced societies tend to get unhappy and dissatisfied in life despite achievement and wealth. This does not apply to everyone of course, just my observation.