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Want to Be Happier & Smarter in 2017? Invest in Experiences Rather Than Things

a woman in a garment and a hat on a beach

New Years resolution? A recent study has found spending your money on experiences rather then things will probably make you happier. And if you’re like me, travel may even make you smarter.

Researchers at San Francisco State University found:

…people who spent money on experiences rather than material items were happier and felt the money was better spent. The thrill of purchasing things fades quickly but the joy and memories of experiences, from epic adventures to minute encounters, can last a lifetime.

Making the switch will involve some trade offs though. If you visit my place, you’ll see pictures and reminders of amazing trips along with dated furniture and a very small TV. 🙂

It took years to convince family and friends that I was making the right choice. I remember one memorable conversation with my grandfather, trying to convince him that I’d made the right choice in spending my $300 on a chance-of-a-lifetime-business class mistake fare to Cyprus rather than putting it into retirement savings or towards a newer car.

But any sacrifices have been worth it. Even during my roughest of times, experiencing new things and seeing new topography could temporarily shake the melancholy and inspire me that better times were possible no matter how unlikely it seemed.

Full Disclosure: I may receive affiliate credit from links in this post or on this site which will help fund my travels. Thank you for your support!

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