The Buying Decision That Makes You Happy
By RealAge
When you find yourself with a little discretionary income, here's a surefire way to make yourself happy with it: Buy an experience.
Seems counterintuitive, but recent research suggests that spending your spare change on transitory experiences -- like a trip to the theater or a relaxing vacation -- will bring stronger and longer-lasting satisfaction than if you'd spent the extra moolah on material objects.
The Joy of Shopping
Here's the problem: Buying material goods -- like high-tech gizmos or swank leather shoes -- is inherently more likely to induce buyer's remorse. It's just too easy to compare what you bought to newer, better, or less expensive options and end up feeling unhappy with your choice. Plus, material goods lose their shiny appeal with time. Experiences, on the other hand? They often become an intrinsic part of your long-term identity, reminding you over and over of good times and happy moments shared with loved ones.
