If you can’t decide between buying a new laptop or a costly spring break trip, science knows which option will make you happier.
A new San Francisco State University study concluded that in the long run, experiences make people happier than possessions. From a survey of 154 college students who were asked to rate their happiness with a recent purchase, those who spent their money on something experiential rather than material were far more satisfied. Though this news isn’t earth-shattering, it gives students a scientific excuse to live for the moment.
This study also explains college behavior, like the popularity of activities such as Dance Marathon, Spring Sing and sports games at UCLA. Students attend these events because they provide lasting memories and bring long-term pleasure.
The professors who conducted this study noted how experiences draw us closer to our family or friends. Any experience, even sitting around and talking, will likely bring more joy than buying something online.
Ryan Howell, assistant professor of psychology at San Francisco State, told CNN that “people felt a greater sense of vitality or “˜being alive’ during the experience.”
A weekend in Mexico or night on the town provides far more positive memories than, say, a new iPod. And while a short international vacation may inspire you to learn Spanish, the iTouch will do little except encourage wasting more money on iTunes.
Since life is a collection of experiences, and college is where you share in the best stories of your life, I can now scientifically support a lifestyle solely driven by experiences, even if that means giving up certain amenities.
For example, I would be perfectly fine living with six guys in a three-bedroom apartment. Though certain difficulties would inevitably arise, I know the experience of living in such a confined space with five of my buddies would be worthwhile, and I’m absolutely positive that I would enjoy it (though my friends are not so easily convinced). If college has taught me anything, it’s that friends bring me the most enjoyment ““ and the more, the better. With this theory, I’ll enjoy people and save money.
On the same thought, I should have participated in Dance Marathon this year. Initially reluctant to put in the effort to raise the required amount of money, I opted out, despite the seven lime fliers I collected on Bruin Walk. But my logic was flawed. I subconsciously let laziness and a lack of motivation deter me from wonderful experiences that I’m almost guaranteed to enjoy. I honestly can’t recall a birthday party that I regret going to or a vacation that I considered wasteful, and I can’t imagine why a marathon of dancing would be any different ““ minus the 26-hours-on-your-feet thing.
If my goal is to enjoy life, and this study now shows that experiences bring satisfaction like nothing else, then why don’t I jump at every chance I get? It seems as though my laziness and narrow-mindedness hinder me from getting the most out of college. I don’t want to turn into one of those guys who claims he can’t go to a party because of homework then later passes out after an hour of Facebook-surfing.
Just as Jim Carrey in “Yes Man” realized all the available life-changing experiences when he opened himself up to opportunity, college students should embrace this philosophy and watch their life enjoyment skyrocket. These values are backed by science, after all.
With graduation approaching and endless opportunities with it, I will regret not saying “yes” to all the experiences I can jam-pack into this time. So not only am I going to try to find five roommates, but I’m also going to make sure I look into studying abroad or traveling over the summer.
This San Francisco State study has shown that experiences dominate all other joyful occurrences that money can supposedly buy. From now on, using science as my justification for living in the moment, I’m going to harass the next friend who declines my invitation to go out to eat or go on a vacation because he’s trying to save. What’s he going to buy with that cash anyway, .01 percent of a house? Objects don’t provide as much bang for their buck. Why not stimulate the economy and have some fun in the process? When all is said and done, your memories are far more important than your credit score.
If you want the experience of living uncomfortably close in an apartment, e-mail Pearring at spearring@media.ucla.edu. Send general comments to viewpoint@media.ucla.edu