04/01/2026
A landmark study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that people who spend their money on experiences instead of material possessions tend to be happier over time. Led by Assistant Professor Leaf Van Boven, the research analyzed multiple studies, including a nationwide survey of more than 12,000 Americans. The results showed a clear trend: experiences deliver deeper and longer-lasting happiness than physical goods.
The reason is straightforward. Experiences become part of who we are. The trips we take, the events we attend, and the moments we share with others help shape our identity. They also strengthen social bonds, since memories connected to relationships carry more emotional value than objects we own.
Researchers also discovered that material items often lose their appeal as time passes, while experiences grow more meaningful. What starts as a moment becomes a cherished memory or a story we return to again and again. Experiences also spark less comparison and envy than material purchases, allowing the happiness they bring to feel more authentic and enduring.
In short, the evidence is clear: if you want a lasting boost to your well-being, invest in moments that become memories, not possessions that eventually fade.
