Live simply, spend lavishly

A common thread among many books about happiness is that the euphoria you get from making purchases rarely sticks around.

After all, the hedonic treadmill is an endless loop, with plenty of belt to go around.

Perhaps that's why those who have a boundless surplus often end up miserable. Because no matter how much money they spend, they’re bound to end up feeling emotionally broke.

Maybe we need a new framework for “buying happiness.”

Because while money can certainly buy it, spending it all the time isn’t the route to enlightenment.

Experiencing boredom, dullness, and yes, discomfort, are essential to appreciating what a real pleasure living lavishly is like.

Which is why living simply, for most of the time, can be a virtue.