English Essay #3 - Will Money Buy You Happiness?

     When I watch the Disney channel with my grandchildren we are bombarded with the message that having money to buy a lot of toys will make kids happy. Is it true that the more money you have to buy stuff the happier you will be? In the November 2014 Wall Street Journal it says that there is new research suggesting happiness is determined not by how much money a person earns, but rather, how one spends it.

       Research by Prof. Ryan Howell, associate professor of psychology at San Francisco State University has shown that some people think that buying material goods brings happiness. When buying something a person can experience a multitude of emotions such as joy, fulfillment, luxury, or satisfaction. Some people think that using their money to buy material goods as opposed to using their money for fleeting experiences is wise because it will last longer. An experience happens, then it’s over. When you buy something it’s tangible, and you can keep it.

       When in fact, research by Howell shows that experiences provide a more lasting happiness. Using your money, for example, on a vacation, concert, lunch with a friend, or some other experience will bring joy that lasts. As the saying goes, “you get more bang for your buck.” While thinking back or looking at pictures of an experience, all the memories and emotions you had during the experience come back. The material goods we buy often go unnoticed. A picture hanging on the wall starts to blend in. The dress you just had to have isn’t worn anymore, and hangs forgotten at the back of the closet.

       Sharing your money with others less fortunate gives a different kind of ‘money bringing happiness’ experience. It does a heart good to see that what you donate makes a positive difference in someone’s life. Elizabeth Dunn, associate professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, made an interesting discovery. She gave money to people with the requirement that they spend it on themselves or share it with others. Dunn found those who spent money on other people were happier than those who used it selfishly.

     Having wealth in itself does not buy happiness, but how you use your wealth can be a key to happiness. The experiences you have in life with your family and sharing your money with others will give the kind of happiness that has lasting value. In the Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi 8:10 tells of a tree whose fruit was desirable to make one happy. The tree represents the love of God. Our Father in Heaven wants us to be happy. 2 Nephi 2:27 says, “men are, that they might have joy.”  When you choose to use your money to help others and have uplifting life experiences, money can buy happiness.