• The greatest pleasure we gain from a purchase lies in the anticipation of that purchase. Studies show that vacationers tend to be happier in the weeks before a trip than on the trip.

• Spend less on material things such as cars and electronics and use your cash to have experiences, like attending an open-air concert or having dinner out.

• Other people’s happiness is contagious: when we see the smile of someone to whom we’ve just given a gift, we too feel happy. This deepens our connection with that person.

• Having money can help you save time by outsourcing chores, for example, such as house cleaning to a service provider, so you don’t have to dust and mop yourself.

The key message in this book: How to spend money for happiness:

• First, be aware that these principles aren’t mutually exclusive: apply as many of them as possible for the maximum boost to your happiness.