Spending

Nov 16 / 23

Collect memories, not things.

Studies find upon receiving physical and experiential gifts, both result in equal instant happiness. However, experiential gifts contribute more to long term happiness.


Spend with intent.

Each purchase is an investment in happiness, health and wealth.


Buying back time is not money wasted.

One of the most effective ways to spend happily is remove time away from the things you don’t enjoy in life, so you can make room for things that do.

You can always make more money, but you can’t turn back time.


Make it a treat.

Law of diminishing returns — the more you have, the less satisfaction you receive with each addition— is amplified by frequency.


Invest in quality.

A more expensive jacket may last longer and be a more worthy long-term investment than a cheap, made-for-outlet jacket. And it feels better to own a quality jacket at least once, rather than always wearing ‘basic’ jackets.

I asked a phone repairman what’s the most reliable smartphone, to use as an authenticator. His answer was, “An older flagship is better than a newer budget phone. The parts are more quality and the parts are more reliable.”


Vote with our dollars.

How we choose to spend our money reflects our values and what companies we support. But everyone has their boundaries and needs— To be able to make a statement is a luxury.


Don’t be afraid to let go of the old.

Things break down, sometimes through planned obsolescence.. But it also forces us to let go, make room for the new. It also shows businesses our interests to push the boundaries.