Money can buy you happiness (if you do it right)

Ways that bring true, lasting satisfaction.

I’m an avid follower of Dr. Arthur Brooks (if you haven’t read his books or seen him speak, I would urge you to carve out some time). Something I heard him say recently really stuck with me, so I wanted to share it with you.
​
He pointed out that there are five things you can do with money, but the one you think will make you the happiest doesn’t. Meanwhile, the four things you tend to overlook? They’re the ones that bring true, lasting satisfaction.
​
So, here are the five things:

1. You can buy stuff. This is the trap. You think buying things will make you happy, but the joy is fleeting (which is probably why I own 14 pairs of black pants). Stuff is fun in the moment, but it doesn’t last.
​
2. You can buy experiences. You think things are permanent and experiences are temporary, but the truth is, experiences stay with us; they live in our hearts and minds long after the moment has passed. Whether it’s a trip with your best friend, a dinner out with your partner, or even a solo adventure (because investing in your relationship with yourself is just as important), these are the things that create deep joy
​
3. You can buy time. If you can pay someone else to do something you don’t have to do, do it! Not only does this create opportunities for others (which is a beautiful thing), but it also frees up your time to focus on what truly matters - connecting with loved ones, engaging in work that fills your soul, or just sitting still and breathing for once. But let’s be real: if you use that extra time to scroll social media, you’re missing the point.
​
4. You can give your money away. Supporting causes and people you deeply care about is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. It creates meaning and connection, which are two things money alone can’t buy.
​
5. You can save your money. Saving isn’t just about financial security; it’s about progress. And progress, more than achieving a specific goal, is what actually lights up our hardwiring. Watching your savings grow, knowing you’re building something for your future, creates a deep sense of satisfaction.
​
So, the next time you’re about to buy yet another pair of shoes (or is that just me?), take a beat. Ask yourself: Is this spending choice really adding to my long-term happiness and satisfaction with my life?
​
​Because here’s the thing: happiness isn’t in the having. It’s in the doing, the giving, the connecting, the growing. The moments you share, the time you reclaim, the love you put out into the world, that’s what lasts.
​
So go ahead, spend wisely. Not just with your money, but with your life.
​
Here’s to a week of a cart full of perspective (and maybe one less pair of shoes).