It turns out whoever said money can’t buy happiness was just wrong. Recent studies have found that it can, if you spend it the right way. We’ve all had that sinking feeling after making a big purchase so you might be somewhat leery of the claim. It is true that making big purchases may provide a temporary high, but it is rarely long lasting.
True happiness comes from buying the simple things in life such as spending money pursuing your hobbies or going on vacation. Part of the reason for that is that a big purchase will wear out over time. You’ll eventually grow tired of your fancy new sports car and begin to long for something to take its place. Money that is spent on a vacation is a wiser investment because even though the vacation comes to an end, you make memories that last a lifetime. Those memories tend to get better with age and become even more valuable.
I don’t think conspicuous consumption has really brought anyone lasting happiness. It is not the items you buy that make you happy, but the experiences. When you have enough money to fund vacations and other life experiences, your life will be happier and more fulfilling. But what if you don’t have enough money to take expensive vacations? You don’t need to spend much to bring happiness.
Studies have shown that inexpensive spending on small experiences that are stretched out over a long period of time can actually make you happier than splurging on a big ticket item. So indulge in a massage or gourmet coffee if it truly makes you happy and forgets about trying to keep up with the Joneses. Let your money buy you happiness rather than being a slave to it.
No related posts.
