GUIDE #15

Investing in Experiences Over Things

Why psychological research proves memories, shared travel, health, and skill mastery generate compounding lifelong happiness.

Published on April 2, 2026 • 8 min read

The Cornell University Research

Groundbreaking research led by Dr. Thomas Gilovich at Cornell University demonstrated that purchasing experiences generates greater, more enduring happiness than purchasing material goods.

Why?

  1. Experiences become part of our identity: You are not your sofa, but you are the sum of your journeys, conversations, and learned skills.
  2. Experiences resist comparison: It is easy to compare a newer smartphone with an older one, but impossible to compare a hike in a pine forest with a dinner with close friends.
  3. Memories take up zero square meters: They require no cleaning, insurance, or maintenance.

“The best things in life aren’t things.”

What to Invest In Instead

  • Physical health & restorative sleep: Quality mattress, nutrition, movement.
  • Micro-adventures & nature: Exploring local coastlines, trails, and cultural events.
  • Skill mastery & learning: Languages, cooking, writing, practical crafts.