Can money really buy happiness? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think.
Research over the years has suggested different conclusions—some studies say happiness plateaus at a certain income, while others argue that more money continues to bring joy. But what if the real question isn’t how much you make but how you spend it? Psychologists Elizabeth Dunn and Michael Norton set out to explore this idea. Their experiments revealed that when people spend money in specific ways—even as little as $5—it can significantly impact their happiness.
They uncovered five key principles of “Happy Money”:
✔ Buy Experiences – Invest in moments, not just things.
✔ Make It a Treat – Scarcity increases appreciation.
✔ Buy Time – Prioritize convenience and freedom.
✔ Pay Now, Consume Later – Delay gratification for more joy.
✔ Invest in Others – Giving back boosts well-being.
Join us for this five-part series as we break down each principle so you can use your money to create more happiness in your life.
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