While buying the latest gadget or fashions may be satisfying in the moment, the thrill fades quickly and we often find ourselves seeking the next purchase to keep the feeling going. If you’ve found yourself in this vicious cycle of endless shopping, there is a better way to spend your money and keep that feeling alive: Stop buying stuff and start buying experiences!
The memories associated with a new experience can last a lifetime. In fact, studies have shown that material possessions do not equal happiness and that shared experiences are much more intrinsically fulfilling than things. Experts speculate that this is because we adapt to physical things, so even the nicest car or newest phone becomes commonplace after enough time, while memories get fonder over time.
From epic adventures to friendship building challenges, the next time you are looking for a way to treat yourself, or give a memorable gift to family and friends, consider unique experiences instead of a new, shiney, tchotchke. Some ideas to consider include: concert tickets, cooking a meal together, passes to a play or a musical, breakfast in bed, a full-body massage, a holiday parade, or try an escape room at Escape Games PDX.
If you haven’t heard about escape rooms, here’s how it works. You have 60 minutes to work together to find the clues, crack the code and solve the puzzle that will open the locked door. And it’s not as easy as it sounds; only 30% of players actually make it out before the hour is up.
Escape Games PDX has 3 different room themes that will challenge even the most savvy of players so you can come back to try a different room, or challenge yourself to see if you can beat your original time. It’s great for small or large groups, so share the fun with your family and friends. You will never forget the time spent together solving creative puzzles, unique challenges, and cool ciphers, which put your wits to the test.
So remember: You want to be happy? Are you looking for a memorable gift? Stop buying things and start buying experiences!