Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance.. (Epicurus)

A growing body of research has shown that experiences tend to make people happier than material possessions. Even anticipating an experience like a concert or a ski trip makes us happier than purchasing the latest gadgets, according to a recent study published in Psychological Science.

The study, called Waiting for Merlot: Anticipatory Consumption of Experiential and Material Purchases, tracked how 100 college students and over 2,200 randomly selected adults felt about material goods and experiences. People got excited about both things and events. But they tended to feel more positive about experiential purchases, and their feelings about material purchases were more likely to be tinged with feelings of impatience. People often get really creative while planning out a future vacation, and just thinking about all the things they’ll be doing and all fun they’ll be having can boost their mood. Even people competitive about money tend to be less competitive about spending on experiences. (adapted from the NPR website, 4 Sept 2014)

The authors hypothesize that experiences offer opportunities to socialize. That may be true. It is also because buying a new cellphone gives you a 24 hour buzz, whereas a ski trip can remain a happy memory for the rest of your life. Whatever the reasons, the fact is that Epicurus said it all 2,300 years ago, and social scientists are now confirming that he was right. Well, surprise, surprise!