It's been said a person is the sum total of his or her experiences. Possessions don't define us. They don't produce lasting memories, either. People often buy things to lift their spirits when they're feeling down. There's an immediate gratification that comes from a new purchase, but it doesn't last. Do you reflect fondly on that first smartphone you bought in 2006? Now, think back to a memorable vacation, or the best concert you ever attended.

Dr. Thomas Gilovich is a professor of  Psychology at Cornell University. He conducted a 20 year study, and drew some very clear conclusions. The novelty of new possessions wears off quickly. We get used to new possessions. It's like building a tolerance to alcohol or drugs. Then, there's "keeping up with the Joneses." You buy a new car, boat, motorcycle, whatever. Somebody always has a better one.

“One of the enemies of happiness is adaptation. We buy things to make us happy, and we succeed. But only for a while. New things are exciting to us at first, but then we adapt to them.”  -  Dr. Thomas Gilovich

That new sports car that makes a "statement" about who you are...The manufacturer built thousands of them. You'll soon start to notice. Go see the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, or whatever bucket list place with your own eyes. Your memories are yours, and yours alone.

 

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