These days, it seems like all anyone ever wants to talk about is what they can buy next. From influencers who boast about their recent purchases to the latest and most expensive gadgets and shoes, money has become a status symbol. Unfortunately, however, not enough people talk about how grateful they feel about having such things. And, as a bonus, doing so can really help your finances!
More Patience
Remember when you went ahead and bought that new iPhone, even though you could not afford it? Or how about when you picked up that purse with the scary price tag? Well, becoming a little more grateful can help you stop purchasing new items that you don’t need – all by adding a bit more patience to the process. A recent study from the Journal of Psychological Science showed that learning to feel a little more grateful can help curb impulse buying!
And we’re not just talking about smaller purchases, either! Feeling grateful can also help with big purchases, like a car, house, or even a move! But how exactly does feeling grateful help with over-buying and impulse purchases?
Less Stress
One of the most significant benefits of feeling grateful is feeling less stressed. Take a moment and take a survey of the financial milestones you’ve already passed. Chances are, things are not quite as bad as they seem when you’re lying awake in the middle of the night. Becoming more grateful can help one stress out less and truly focus on the things that matter.
Now, take a look at the phone you already have. Do you really need a new one? Or is that just a desire?
Feeling Happy Overall
Many think that more money will bring them more happiness. In fact, quite the opposite is true! Study after study shows that, once a person has their needs met, extra money does not bring extra happiness. So, if you can learn to be grateful for what you already have, there’s no doubt more joy will come.
In time, now that you’re undistracted by the newest gadget, the things that will truly make you the happiest will begin to reveal themselves. In the long run, most feel the best when they have a stable economic plan that will allow them to prosper and save through the years.
More Generosity
Ever feel too clingy with your money? Like you should spend it less or perhaps donating more to charity? Well, there’s good news! Those who feel grateful are much more likely to donate money to charity or give it to friends, family, or strangers!
Of course, there are plenty of reasons to donate money that have nothing to do with feeling grateful. After all, giving can also result in good tax breaks for businesses and individuals.
Overall, there are plenty of reasons to become grateful. Not only can it make you happier and less stressed, but it will allow you to focus on the parts of your budget that you truly need to focus on.
Sources: Finance101, The Balance