Give or Get?

Is it better to give or receive?

Heads: Let's Give!

Money Can Buy Happiness!

As it turns out, experts have found that money can buy happiness ...but only if we spend it the right way: on others.

According to Betsy Reed, Editor of The Guardian, giving might just be "the path to happiness." Science has now proved the biblical claim that it is indeed "more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). Reed's article references a study performed six to eight weeks after a group of individuals had each received bonuses in varied amounts. It was determined that "the size of the bonus did not determine how much happiness grew. Instead, the amount spent on others or given to charity was correlated with how much individuals' happiness levels had risen."

Trust the Science

It can be difficult to fully understand how giving could contribute to happiness. The selfishness of human nature usually causes us to focus on our own needs and desires before we think about others. However, the act of giving produces a domino effect of positive reactions within the mind. Plus it does great things for the recipient and strengthens the relationship between the giver and the receiver.

Tails: Let's Get!

Spend on You

Some people struggle to spend money on themselves. For a giving, thoughtful people who are continually putting others before themselves (and a lot of teachers fall into this category), it can be challenging to buy new thinks for themselves. If this is you, I have great news! You do NOT need to feel bad about buying something for yourself. According to the lifestyle choices blog, Make Me Better, not only is self-spending beneficial, it is actually essential. Their article, Why Spending Money on Yourself is Essential?, only focusing on the needs of others is a form of self-neglect.

It's OK to Spoil Yourself

Studies have actually found that rewarding yourself can be a good thing. In fact, self-appreciation and rewards can actually help us do a better job, stay motivated at work, improve our mental health, and—you guessed it—boost our happiness!