Things vs. Experiences
You've heard that right? That money is better spent on experiences rather than stuff, things... Well it's been researched and proven, especifically for millenials, but I personally think it applies to everyone. A study by Harris Group found that 72% of millennials prefer to spend more money on experiences than on material things. Of all the things I hear about millenials, I'm actually happy to hear that these young people are being reflective about how to spend their money. In the USA, it's becoming a more well-known way of thinking. This trend is forcing companies to adapt. Macy's, for instance, is using mini-concerts, yoga classes and cafes to draw consumers through its doors. That's interesting since I do recall hearing that some stores were closing. I would agree that a cafe or a mini-concert would attract customers.
I read a recent research from San Francisco State University found that people who spent money on experiences rather than material items were happier and felt the money was better spent. Plus, I think most of us would agree that people who have more frequent social interactions live longer, healthier lives and experience less stress. Less stressful lives would definitely seem to equate to less chances of experiencing depression and feelings of isolation.
Part of engaging in experiences that provide you with positive vibes would be realizing that sharing is caring and giving really is better than receiving. It doesn't necessarily mean a bought gift either. Sometimes I bake for my team. Other times I will bring a colleague / friend lunch. Even other times I will write a thank you to someone. Guess what? Those things happen to me too! Today a colleague/ friend brought me breakfast!!! Another colleague / new friend brought me lunch!!! I felt so lucky and truly nothing could have happened the entire day to make me feel otherwise. It's awesome to think of other people and it's equally awesome when they think of you. Karma is super sweet!
Learning last a lifetime. So the next time you can't go climbing Machu Pichu in Peru, try watching a documentary about Peru. If you cannot go to the culinary capital of the world or the country with the best food ever...then maybe you can read a cookbook or watch YouTube on Peru's cuisine. Yes, I know you thought I was going to say Paris or London or even Tokyo...but Peru has won the best food award for the 5th consecutive year!
You don’t really want to own a yacht you just want to sail in one and there is a big difference. Most of us could not take off a few months a year to spend recreational time on a yacht. So you want to spend time on one, maybe with family
but then you'd go back to work and home. So you wouldn't want to realistically spend that kind of money buying a yacht that would spend most of its time stored.
So the next time you have a choice of buying a new purse or MacBook for a couple thousand dollars, maybe book a last minute flight to a destination you've never been to. Take lots of pictures and enjoy!