Why You Buy Is More Important Than What You Buy
We’ve talked before about how spending money on experiences makes us happier than spending it on things. In other words, taking a whale-watching tour creates a bigger boost for nature-lovers than watching Shark Week on a new big-screen TV.
That’s because buying life experiences makes us feel more competent, self-directed, and connected to other people.
Why you buy is as important as what you buy. Researchers at San Francisco State University interviewed people before and after an exotic vacation. The result: Those who took the trip because it lined up with their interests and values came home with an increased sense of fulfillment and well-being. But those who went in order to get bragging rights, or attention, felt more isolated and less confident when they got home.
What’s this mean to you? Well, before you buy once-in-a-lifetime concert tickets, or book a safari, ask yourself, “Why am I doing this?” If you’re trying to shore up your water cooler cred, or impress the cutie at the coffee shop, you’ll be disappointed. But, if you’d want to have the experience, even if you never got to tell a soul, go for it!
By the way, the study’s not actually over, and you can add your experiences to the database. On the website Beyond the Purchase dot org you’ll find the same survey the original participants took. You’ll also find quizzes to help you understand what drives your shopping decisions.
That’s because buying life experiences makes us feel more competent, self-directed, and connected to other people.
Why you buy is as important as what you buy. Researchers at San Francisco State University interviewed people before and after an exotic vacation. The result: Those who took the trip because it lined up with their interests and values came home with an increased sense of fulfillment and well-being. But those who went in order to get bragging rights, or attention, felt more isolated and less confident when they got home.
What’s this mean to you? Well, before you buy once-in-a-lifetime concert tickets, or book a safari, ask yourself, “Why am I doing this?” If you’re trying to shore up your water cooler cred, or impress the cutie at the coffee shop, you’ll be disappointed. But, if you’d want to have the experience, even if you never got to tell a soul, go for it!
By the way, the study’s not actually over, and you can add your experiences to the database. On the website Beyond the Purchase dot org you’ll find the same survey the original participants took. You’ll also find quizzes to help you understand what drives your shopping decisions.
