It’s no secret that Americans aren’t the happiest bunch right now. In fact, research shows that only 14% of US citizens endorse feeling “very happy.” But what if we told you that spending money could actually make you happier? It may sound counterintuitive, but it’s true! In this blog post, we’ll share 10 ways to spend your money that will actually make you happier. So read on and start boosting your happiness today!
1. Spend on Experiences Rather Than Things
Research has shown that experiences make us happier than things. So next time you’re considering a purchase, ask yourself if it’s something you’ll enjoy for years to come or if it’s something that will just end up collecting dust. Chances are, opting for the experience will give you more bang for your buck!
2. Buy Time-Saving Services
We all know that time is money. And if you’re constantly feeling pressed for time, it can really affect your happiness levels. One way to combat this is to spend money on services that will save you time. Things like housekeeping, grocery delivery, or even a dog walker can free up your schedule so you can focus on the things that make you happy.
3. Invest in Your Health
It’s no secret that our physical health has a direct impact on our happiness levels. So it makes sense to invest in our health, both mentally and physically. This could mean anything from investing in a gym membership or taking a cooking class to help you eat healthier. Whatever it is, taking care of your health will pay off in the long run…literally!
4. Buy Material Goods That Help Improve Experiences
One way to spend your money that will make you happier is to buy material goods that help improve experiences. For example, let’s say you love going to the beach. You could buy a new swimsuit, a beach chair, and some sunscreen. These items would not only make your time at the beach more enjoyable, but they would also help protect you from the sun. The next time you’re at the beach, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about getting sunburned.
5. Invest in Experiences
Another way to spend your money that will make you happier is to invest in experiences. Instead of buying material goods, you could use your money to buy tickets to a concert or a play. You could also use your money to go on a vacation. Experiences like these can create lasting memories that will make you happy for years to come.
6. Buy Gifts for Others
A study published in the journal Science found that people who spent money on gifts for others experienced more happiness than those who spent money on themselves. The researchers believe this is because giving to others activates the “helper’s high,” a rush of endorphins that comes from making someone else happy.
7. Take a Trip
A study published in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life found that people who took vacations were happier and more satisfied with their lives than those who didn’t. The researchers believe this is because vacations provide a much-needed break from the stresses of everyday life.
8. Indulge in Small Pleasures Rather Than Big Splurges
You can save money by foregoing Starbucks lattes, but little pleasures such as pricey coffee beverages, pedicures, and super-soft socks might make us happier than major splurges. According to a research article released by Harvard Scholars, “one reason why little frequent pleasures defeat infrequent huge pleasures is that we are less likely to adapt to the former.”
The research report compares going out for an after-work beer to purchasing an expensive dining furniture. Every time you go out for beer, the experience is slightly different, whether because you order a new beer or because the discussion is different, but the table remains the same. The novelty of anything is typically what makes it interesting, so once you’ve adapted,
