There is a saying, “money can’t buy happiness,” and to a certain extent, this is true. Money can get you other things, though. It can make your life more comfortable and secure.
You can buy a house, or a car, go abroad for vacations, dine out in fancy restaurants and do anything else that you like. You can also have a sense of security because money can provide you with better healthcare, education, and stable life savings.
Money can make you happy in the sense that it gives you the freedom to have a good life. But you need to balance it out so that you can enjoy it.
Why Does This Happen?
The more money you have, the more your expectations will rise. You might spend more but still not feel satisfied. You will also work more in order to earn more.
In the long run, this will affect your relationship with family and friends. As a result, you do not spend time with your loved ones but instead are focused on spending your money.
In the end, you may have a lot of material things, but you won’t enjoy them. You get used to having more money, and then the thrill of it wears off. You realize you have to earn more to keep sustaining a higher lifestyle.
Is It Common?
It all depends on the person. Some people know how to manage their money well. They earn more, and they spend it on improving their lives. Their standard of living rises.
Whereas others may spend their earnings on buying things and keeping up with the neighbors. They tend to compare themselves to others who earn more.
How Can You Use Your Money To Become Happier?
You can use your money to make your life better. For example, you can buy a house or pay off debts. Maybe enroll in an educational course to improve your skills. You can sign up for dance or art classes and have fun.
You can also use your money to treat your family members. For example, going out for a meal or having a special spa day with your loved ones will definitely make you happy.
Spending money on others will bring you satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment. In addition, you can build up experiences that will bring you together with your loved ones.
Common Reasons Why Money Doesn’t Make You Happy?
The more money you have, the more you want to spend it. So you may end up buying that expensive watch or exclusive designer clothes, but you will still feel empty inside.
Happiness is a state of mind. Spending money on others will make you happy. You will feel good about yourself, and that, in turn, will make you happy.
When you have more money, you feel compelled to spend it on yourself. Of course, you then expect to feel good about what you buy, but that good feeling is only temporary.
This is known as the “hedonic treadmill.” You spend your money, but you are always looking for more.
Free Things That Will Make You Feel Better
There are a lot of free things you can do that will make you feel better and happy. A few of them are:
- Call a friend or a family member
- Read a good book
- Sing in the shower
- Watch a movie with friends
- Listen to music
- Bake cookies or cakes
- Go on a picnic
- Paint
- Do some gardening
- Go for a walk
- Write a gratitude book
- Dance in the sunshine
Spending time alone is also beneficial. It will help you re-evaluate your life and show what is important to your well-being.
Final Thoughts on Money Doesn’t Make Me Happy
Having money can make your life easier. You just need to know how to make it work for you. Instead of spending and working, take the time to relax and have fun. Happy experiences will enrich you.
Take the time to connect with loved ones and use your money to make their lives better. Seeing them happy and knowing that you are responsible for it will make you happy.
At the end of the day, the more happy experiences and memories you have, the richer your life will be.