“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” 1 Timothy 6:10
There is stress that goes along with having money. Whether you have a little or a lot, you likely know about this stress. There is the stress of knowing you need to spend what you have wisely, as well as the fact that people with ulterior motives are drawn to those who are financially wealthy. Studies have shown that yes, having enough money to meet your needs and those of your family does bring happiness. Here are 5 thing to remember to be happy with your money.
1. Money and Happiness Are Not Proportional.
Someone with enough money to buy a large house and several cars will not necessarily have more happiness than another individual with exactly what they need.People living in poverty are generally less happy than those whose needs are met. Being able to pay for your bills and having enough to get by financially will help you succeed in feeling happy. Having more money than you need, however, will not bring you extra happiness.
2. Not About What Comes in But What Goes Out
It is not so much the amount of money that you make that ensures your happiness, but about what you are spending it on and where it is going on the way out. There are some principles for using money that can help you to feel more satisfied. Where you put your money and who receives it can make a difference as to whether you gained something by having had it.
4. Spend on Experiences, Not Things
Buying more things is not proven to make a person happy. Although investing in items that will last seems like a wise move, studies show that we tend to adjust to what we obtain. Having these things doesn’t continue bringing unlimited happiness.
We are more likely to have long-term happiness when money is spent on experiences which will give us lasting memories. Whether this means going on vacation by yourself or with your family, or making time to do something fun every now and then… be sure to create experiences rather than purchasing something that will simply fade away over time.
5. Give It Away
Jesus said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 20:35)
Giving is one of the most satisfying things you can do with your money; Giving sets us free, while hoarding entraps us (James 5:2). Whether it is to charity or a friend in need, find a way to give back and share what you have. This is a way to spend that will bring long-term rewards of happiness.