Can money buy happiness? Yes, I think it can. Really, how? Well, for one thing, by choosing carefully what you spend your money on. Because spending wisely makes you feel great. Especially if you spend it on something that gives you some spare time. That will make you happy. How cool is that?
How to spend was the topic of a large study done in America, Canada, Denmark, and the Netherlands. More than 6,000 people participated. And guess what the conclusion is? People who spend money on time-saving services are more satisfied with their lives.
Buying time beats buying things
The survey asked the question: “If you had $40 to spend on something that would make you really happy, what would you do with the money?” Some people would go shopping, others would go out to dinner or a movie. Some would give it to charity. But, of course, you can also use the $40 to buy leisure time.
The study shows something really lovely: buying leisure time makes people happier than buying a physical product. And this isn’t just true for the wealthy. It applies to everyone! It doesn’t matter how much money you have. So it’s not about how much money you make, but about the choices you make that determine how happy your money makes you.
I totally agree with the results of the study. It feels the same for me. I get more happiness from something that saves me time than from something new.
My stress-free choice
I recently had to go abroad for a few days for work. I therefore decided that I needed a new power bank. Of course, I always have to be able to use my phone while on the road. That power bank was necessary. And it was only €25.
I recently had the chance to go abroad for a few days for work. I thought I’d treat myself to a new power bank. Of course, I always love being able to use my phone while I’m out and about. I really needed that power bank 😀 And the best part, it was only $25!
However, there was still a lot to do before I left. My head was spinning. And I also had that nagging voice in my head that kept telling me that all my shirts still needed to be ironed. The closet was completely empty.
Such a work assignment abroad is nice, but it does cause stress.
Luckily, the solution was simple and effective. I spent the power bank money on an ironing service. They came to pick up my shirts. And returned them ironed and ready to wear for less than the $25. I gave the difference to the man as a tip.
Money made me happy
The nagging voice was gone. Replaced by mental peace. Delicious! Now I could relax while traveling. After the trip, I had a closet full of clean, pressed shirts.
And that power bank? I didn’t need that thing! The value of peace is priceless, but it can be bought. That’s how money makes you happy. A very nice feeling.
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