Experiences make us happier than possessions

I absolutely agree that experiences bring more happiness than possessions. Now there is a study to confirm that idea in an article I just found on CNN.com.

What a great opportunity in these times of changes to enrich our lives through more experiences rather than possessions. And the experiences do not have to be the expensive kind as in a trip around the world or a stay in a luxury spa.

I realized that for me experiences within my community of family members, friends and acquaintances are the ones that I cherish the most. They stay with me and in my memories for quite a while. I also found that these shared experiences help me feel more connected to the individual members. And the more connected I feel, the more I am able to send fear (when it does raise its head) on a vacation to Australia…

When I created my list, I realized that I came up with a lot of ideas for activities that are usually associated with children and childhood. Funny…

Here is a list of inexpensive suggestions I came up with:

• A group hike and picnic to a lake, river or mountain
• Barbecue potluck
• Get to know your neighbor parties
• Weekly drumming or singing circles
• Surprise birthday parties
• Pick up ball games in the park
• Community pajama parties
• Treasure hunts
• Community talent shows
• Potluck picnics in the park
• Summer sunset parties
• Full moon hike in the snow
• Knitting or crochet circles
• Used clothing swaps (or “Naked Ladies Parties” as one friend calls them)
• Harvest party: glean fruit from ownerfree fruit trees and then make pies or jams

CNN.com had a poll on their home page on Feb 11, 2009:

Which brings you more happiness?

Experiences	86%	12153 votes
Possessions	14%	1907 votes
Total Votes: 14060

My question: so why do we all buy so many things, often way more than we need?

Feel free to add your own suggestions in your comments below.

~~~ Check out my website: A Good Dying ~~~

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