images via Vogue, Allure
I recently read a study in the Wall Street Journal about whether money could, in fact, buy you happiness…
SO while no, money cannot buy you happiness (obviously), the article sates that it’s the experiences that surround it (money) that we remember and find of value, and that struck a chord with me.
I find myself falling victim to this; wanting an iPad, a dress, something material that will supposedly serve me well. So on this happiness journey that I’ve unassumingly embarked upon, I vow to spend my money in a way that makes me happier: i.e take more trips and gain more experiences (or maybe I’m just trying to make light of the fact that I’m in a long distance relationship… just kidding!). Experiences breed less comparison, making it unique and your own. You are much less likely to be jealous of someone’s unique trip/vacation than their brand new handbag or pair of shoes. On the other hand, material goods lose their newness and excitement. We adapt to owning them and this continues the never ending cycle of wanting the fresh and new (which is quite exhausting, frankly).
I realize this can be construed as slightly ironic coming from someone who works in an industry that pumps item consumption at an alarmingly fast rate. But while I do focus on fashion, I want fashion to fit into my (and your) life. This blog is not supposed to make you feel bad about buying something. Don’t buy that piece then! Make a conscious decision and buy only things that make you feel good. Now, maybe I won’t buy that bag and will save up to take a trip to Asia instead.
What is your take on this topic? Let me know in the comments!
I’ve recently came to realisation that it feels so much better to spend money on experiences rather than on things. While you can own something for a period of time, it’ll never be able to give you these emotions and memories, you could have gained by travelling, for example.
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ALINA ERMILOVA | BLOG
Author
Absolutely!
This is so true. Just going through my instagram feed everyday makes me feel like i want and need so many new things. But the satisfaction you get from buying ‘stuff’ fades very quickly. Whereas my trips and experiences live with me forever!
Author
Ya it’s amazing how quickly the “new” feeling fades, hey?!
It’s such a balancing act. Personally, shopping gives me a such a flood of feel good hormones that it’s hard to deny it’s therapeutic effect on a bad day or week. I love travelling and never feel bad about spending money on a good trip, especially with friends or ones I love. However, I really feel like, all that spending, trips or possessions, need to be balanced by some time spent doing things that are free. I’ve been shopping my butt off lately getting ready for a move and try to get outside for a walk or run in the woods every day to remind myself that some of life’s greatest pleasures are simple and free. Awesome post
Author
So true Meghanne… great point! There’s nothing better than a hike on a sunny day with my dog 🙂