A popular quote says ‘Money can’t buy happiness’, and this year has taught us how true this statement is. Of course, money is important because financial stability reduces anxiety, which leads to a healthier, happier life. But that doesn’t mean you need to dedicate your life to amassing extreme amounts of wealth. In fact, research has shown that after a certain income, the more money you make does not equal more joy. In fact, another study has found that buying new things only brings us a temporary sense of joy, that quickly vanishes. It is spending on experiences that leads to greater fulfilment, because you’re gaining something priceless in return–happy memories with your loved ones.
And that’s why the saying ‘The best things in life are free’ (also a song by Jimmie Lunceford) holds true. As this tumultuous year comes to an end, let’s count our blessings. Here’s proof that some of the best things in life are free!
Laughter
How happy does bursting out into a fit of laughter make you? We’re talking about that gasping-for-breath-face-hurting laughter. And of course, it doesn’t cost a dime! All you need is a set of goofy friends to keep you entertained and tickle your funny bone. And the best part is, you don’t even need to be in the same room as them to enjoy a good LOL session!
Hugs
This is cheesy, but true. There’s nothing like a warm hug from a loved one to brighten even the gloomiest of days! If anything, the pandemic and distance have made us appreciate hugs more than ever! So the next time you’re finally able to meet (post-COVID) someone you care about, make sure you give them the tightest of hugs!
Sleep
Isn’t cosying up under a fluffy blanket on a cold day one of the BEST feelings in the world? Getting a good night’s rest or even an afternoon siesta is one of the simplest pleasures of life. Thanks to the pandemic, we’ve found ourselves sneaking in little naps whenever we can find time. And I don’t know about you, but I’m really not complaining.
Fresh air
If you live in a crowded city, you might realise the value of this more than others. But taking long, deep breaths in the morning is one of the best ways to kick-start the day–it wakes you up and makes you feel energised. And thankfully, it’s free (at least for now!)
Compliments
If there’s something that people love to give AND receive equally, it’s compliments. Hearing someone say kind words about you can be very validating and motivational. However, giving someone a compliment and watching them smile is equally rewarding! So don’t forget to give someone a compliment and make their day today.
Exercise
This might seem like an odd addition to this list, but hear me out. Exercise might initially make some of us miserable, but in the long run, the health benefits are endless. Not only will regular exercise make you healthy and fit, but it also releases endorphins in your body, making you feel happy every time you do it. And no, it doesn’t have to cost you a single penny. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that it is absolutely possible to exercise every day at home thanks to the plethora of free fitness videos online.
Love
The Beatles said ‘All you need is love’, and we couldn’t agree more! While you may also ‘need’ several other things to survive, our life would be empty without the love and affection of our near and dear ones. Science says that when an individual feels loved and accepted, they feel happier, their immune system is stronger and even their heart health improves. And you can’t argue with science, right?
MyGlamm’s LIT Matte Lipstick
Didn’t see this one coming, did you? To end the year with a bang, POPxo is giving you the best gift of them all–FREE lipstick! All you need to do is sign up to become a MyGlammXO Insider and get your free lipstick! What’s in it for you? Contests, reward points, the chance to co-create products, and tonnes of beauty benefits! So what are you waiting for?
As 2020 nears an end, let’s take a moment to truly appreciate all the wonderful things that make life worth living (without burning a hole in our pockets!).
Featured Image: Instagram