We’ve all heard that money can’t buy happiness. The material things of the world can bring temporary feelings won’t last. Perhaps happiness itself is a personal decision that can generally be upheld regardless of external influence. But in my experience, money can definitely affect how you feel in the moment and over the long term. And while money is often seen as an enemy to happiness, here are four real ways money can make you happier.
- You can Give Money to others
One of the best things you can do with money is give it away. Yes, it’s counter-intuitive, but giving away money might actually bring more happiness that earning the money in the first place. You’ll have to decide for yourself what level of giving you want to participate in, but it could be as simple as paying for a friend’s lunch. Even little acts of service and kindness will go a long way towards building your personal happiness.
Another benefit of giving money is the creation of a healthier attitude towards money in general. You can cultivate a habit of giving and an understanding that more money will come. Indeed, many books and thinkers speaking about the idea of the law of attraction claim that giving away money will help you make more money since you are constantly projecting a feeling of abundance and giving can prevent selfishness and the negative feelings that come with.
- You Can Provide For Your Basic Needs
There is a difference between buying a steak and buying a can of beans, just like there is a diffence between buying a Ferrari and buying a beat-up Honda Civic. While luxury purchases might bring incremental happiness, your quality of life and happiness levels could fluctuate quite a b it between the stages of welfare and buying your own food.
There is something very empowering about providing for your own basic needs. Think of the transition between high school and college or adult life. For most people, they have the opportunity to spread their wings and leave the nest. Where parents once provided food and shelter, now the individual must fend for themselves. And while it can be frightening and stressful at times, there is real feeling of accomplishment when you find your apartment or buy your first car.
- You Can Get Yourself Out of Debt
One of the most personally damaging things that can happen in a person’s life is getting stuck in debt. Credit cards, new cars, vacations, medical bills, unexpected life events, and events.
While the misuse of money can get you into debt, the opposite is also true. Using money wisely can free you from debt and help you to create a brighter financial future. Make it your year to get debt-free. While it may be a long road to get out of debt, you can help maintain motivation by thinking what your life will be like when you don’t owe anyone and you have complete control over your own finances.
- You Can Do Something Personally Meaningful.
Finally, consider ways you can use money to do something very meaningful to your life. Think of a big goal that brings you joy and a feeling of fulfillment. For instance, how would you feel to be able to help pay for your kids to get through college? How would you feel to be able to start your own non-profit organization?
Money has the power to help you achieve goals that can bring more meaning to your life. Try and switch your mindset from a materialistic attitude of finding meaning through money. This will help the next time you are tempted with an impulse at the mall. When you keep your larger life goals In mind, it will become easier to avoid quick purchases that might actually diminish your happiness in the long run.
The next time you hear someone say that money can’t buy happiness, think of some of these ideas. When you have a healthy view of money focused on giving to others, providing for your own needs, staying free from debt, and achieving personally meaningful goals, you might find that money can in fact improve your happiness and increase your quality of life.
