December 16, 2014

Buying “stuff” provides a sensation associated with happiness, but it quickly fades. Why? Alternatives?

3 thoughts on “December 16, 2014”

  1. Brennan Haag says:

    If you buy stuff to be happy, you are making a mistake. After you buy something you have a feeling of happiness from what you bought. But this feeling doesn’t last. You adapt to what you have and you want more so you end up spending more money. An alternative is to find something else that makes you happy that doesn’t cost much. If your feeling down you should go for a walk or spend time with family and friends. There are more important things in life than stuff and people should strive to be less materialistic.

  2. Garrett Haag says:

    This is called the hedonic treadmill. People get used to what they have and become accustom to that new thing they just got, so that new thing soon becomes an old thing they are used to. You get a big kick in endorphins but it only lasts for a short while when you first get the item. The fake happiness wares off and you want to buy a second new and fancy item so the process just repeats itself. You need to not let yourself get caught on the treadmill to start with and not care so much about things and stuff. If you want to buy something buy something for someone who truly needs it or give your time to a cause that you care about. That will in the end bring you true happiness.

  3. Mike Finley says:

    Great comments gentlemen. I have nothing to add. Well done!

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