Experiences vs. Possessions: Setting the Stage for a Meaningful 2025
As we begin the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what truly matters in our lives and careers. Instead of focusing on what we can accumulate, let’s think about what we can experience. This isn’t just about living in the moment—it’s about aligning our choices with our values, prioritizing time and meaningful experiences, and ensuring our goals lead to true fulfillment.
Experiences vs. Possessions: The Case for Meaningful Choices
Research shows that experiences contribute more to our happiness and well-being than possessions. According to a study published in the journal Psychological Science, people who spend money on experiences rather than material goods report significantly greater satisfaction in the long run. This is because experiences become part of who we are—they connect us to others, create lasting memories, and enrich our lives in ways that material possessions simply can’t.
Other studies support the case for experiences being more valuable than possessions:
A Cornell University study found that experiential purchases make people happier over time, whereas the thrill of material purchases fades quickly.
A study by Harris Poll revealed that 74% of respondents preferred to spend money on experiences rather than material things.
From Experiences to Your Career: Aligning with Purpose
This same principle applies to your professional life. Money matters, of course—but for what? Not for the sake of accumulating it, but for the opportunities it affords you to create experiences that enrich your life. Sometimes, the right career move may not be the one with the highest paycheck. It may be the one that offers you more time, fulfillment, or alignment with your personal values.
Various studies support this idea. People who prioritize time over money report greater happiness. For instance, research published by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology found that those who value time more than the pursuit of wealth are happier and experience lower stress levels. And we could all use less stress in our lives!
Consider the following questions for yourself:
Are my current career choices aligned with my core values and beliefs? Long-term goals?
Do I feel like I’m spending my time in ways that I truly cherish, both at work and at home?
The Most Precious Resource: Time
Time is the most precious resource we have. Let’s guard it as such. It’s not just about how we spend our time outside of work—it’s about valuing the time we spend inside work as well. Are you making the most of your hours? Are you ensuring that your professional life supports your personal life, rather than competing with it?
This year, focus on how you can align your time with your goals and values, ensuring every moment feels meaningful, whether spent at work or with loved ones.
Personal Reflection: A Family-Centered Holiday
Over the past few weeks, I had the privilege of focusing on what matters most to me: my family. My son and I took a “boy’s trip” together—a special adventure that gave us the chance to bond and create memories we will both treasure. I put my phone away and just enjoyed each and every moment. It helped me see him in a new light and appreciate so many more aspects of him than I see in our everyday lives together. I felt like the luckiest person on Earth! These moments reinforced my belief that experiences—not things—are what make life truly rich.
You probably have business goals and/or resolutions for the year, but what are your goals that will maximize your time (quantity and quality) with the people you care most about? What resources do you need to create those experiences? And what will you need to overcome to get there? These are some of the most important questions you will ask yourself this year, and I highly encourage you to ask them now – not ‘when convenient’, right now.
Start the Year Strong
As you step into 2025, think about the choices you’re making—both professionally and personally. Are they leading you toward the experiences that truly matter? Take time to reflect on your goals, align them with your values, and ensure you’re prioritizing what brings you the greatest fulfillment. After all, life is about more than what we accumulate; it’s about how we live.
This year, let’s prioritize experiences over possessions, time over things, and meaning over materialism. Here’s to a year of intentional living and lasting fulfillment! Good luck and let me know how I can support you.
