4 things we think make us happy (but actually don’t), according to science

We might think that things like having more money or taking longer holidays will bring us joy. But science says cultivating happiness is actually much more easily attained. Here’s how.

We are all, in our heart of hearts, simply searching for true happiness. But according to science, many of the things we’re striving for – a bigger house, more money, longer holidays – won’t actually bring us joy. 

Instead, we should be cultivating happiness from the inside out. If we know our own why, our own unique purpose in life, it becomes easier to find joy in helping others, and gratitude for what we already have.

Here are four common things that don’t actually bring us more happiness, according to science:

Almost everyone in the world, at some point in their lives, has wished for more money. It’s generally because we believe that more money will bring us more happiness. We’ll be able to buy that car we’ve always wanted, pay off those bills, take that holiday. And while having enough money to meet our basic needs can definitely improve life, getting “rich” probably won’t. 

A 2010 study from Princeton University asserts that an annual salary of USD 75K a year (that’s around $97K AUD) was the tipping point for happiness – any more than that and people tend to become prone to social comparisons, greed enters the building, and the grass starts to become infinitely more green on the other side.

And this 2019 study found that prioritising money over free time – say, picking up an extra shift at work over hanging out with friends – might even undermine our happiness.

So what are we to do? Try to practice daily gratitude for the things we have, and everything we can already afford to do. 

When was the last time you told yourself “I’d be so much happier if I had that pair of shoes/woollen coat/new release iPhone”? While shiny new purchases provide a brief hit of dopamine, the feeling is just that: extremely fleeting (and can often lead to feelings of shame/”Why did I buy that??”/unhappiness).

This 2014 study found that experiential products – goods that will enable you to have experiences – have a far more positive effect on your happiness than, say, a new pair of shoes. If you’re keen to treat yourself, consider things like camping equipment for an adventure with friends, a musical instrument and lessons to help you master the art, or a new set of paints to boost your creativity.

Yes, we all need a holiday. After all, holidays are good for our mental health, allowing us to spend quality time with friends and family, and to take a break from our everyday commitments. But are holidays the ultimate ticket to happiness, and does a longer holiday really equal better? 

The answer is actually no. This study, from Finland’s University of Tampere, shows that a two-week holiday isn’t necessarily twice as good as a week-long one. Why? Because after a week, all our fond memories start to blur together. Instead, why not embrace the quick getaway? You’ll be getting away more often, creating more memories and feeling more satisfied. 

Unwrapping presents on your birthday is undeniably a good time. The joy! The surprise! The thoughtfulness! However, did you know that science suggests the gift-giver often receives as much joy (if not more) than the person receiving the gift?

A 2008 study reported that people’s levels of happiness actually jumped up when they spent money on others instead of themselves, and, ironically, that the less money people have, the more likely they are to spend it on others. This extends beyond gift-giving too; that happiness levels boost when you’re helping out a friend in need, or donating to a charity.

Know what else may increase your happiness? AIA Vitality members can donate their weekly Active Benefits to charity. Check out aiavitality.com.au for more info.

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

Disclaimer:
This is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a financial adviser, or medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.