When people give in ways that allow for a greater sense of social connection, we enjoy the act more. We experience a bigger boost of happiness from doing so. Giving where you're able to see the recipient can be even more rewarding than simply sending a check in the mail. People sometimes feel like if they're forced to help, right, if they have no choice other than to help, it doesn't feel as good or onerous.
Money can buy you happiness - but not in the way we think. Giving money away - especially to help others - has been shown make us happier than spending on ourselves.
Social psychologist Lara Aknin explains the best ways to spend on loved ones, friends and even total strangers to get the biggest happiness bang for your buck.
And Harvard's s Josh Greene reveals how much money Happiness Lab listeners gave to charity via Giving Multiplier last year - and how many lives you saved.
To give to a charity of your choice and to some of the most effective charities around (and have your donation matched at a special rate) visit: https://givingmultiplier.org/invite/HAPPINESSLAB
The Happiness Lab will return in January 2023. See you then.
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