Lifetime Book Club: Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending by Elizabeth Dunn & Michael Norton

“Money can't buy happiness – unless you know how to spend it.”

That’s the heart of Happy Money. This isn’t your usual guide to budgeting, saving, or investing. It’s a fascinating, research-driven look at how to turn spending into something that genuinely makes you feel good – not just for a moment, but in a meaningful, lasting way.

What It’s About

Dunn and Norton are behavioural scientists, and this book is built around one powerful premise: it's not how much money you have – it's how you use it.

They offer five simple principles for spending in ways that lead to more happiness:

1. Buy Experiences – A family trip or a night out with friends often brings more joy than buying stuff.
2. Make It a Treat – The less frequently you have something, the more you appreciate it.
3. Buy Time – Spend to free up time, not just fill it. Outsourcing chores, for example, can boost happiness.
4. Pay Now, Consume Later – Pre-paying for something and enjoying it later actually increases anticipation and enjoyment.
5. Invest in Others – Giving to others can be one of the most rewarding ways to use your money.

Each principle is backed by real-world studies and peppered with quirky stories, relatable scenarios, and sharp insights that flip traditional financial thinking on its head.

What We Loved

This book is joyful and grounded in equal measure. The authors are smart, but they keep things simple and human. There’s real charm in the way they weave humour and heart into academic research.

One standout moment? A study showing that even a small gift – like buying a coffee for a friend – delivers more happiness than spending the same amount on yourself. It’s a refreshing take that aligns with what many of us feel deep down but don’t always act on.

It’s also hugely practical. This isn’t about cutting back or being frugal – it’s about being intentional. A rare money book that doesn't make you feel guilty or overwhelmed, but inspired.

Who It’s For

This book is perfect if:

• You’re doing well financially but don’t always feel it
• You’ve ever spent money and regretted it straight after
• You want to live more meaningfully, not just accumulate more
• You’re looking for a smarter, more fulfilling way to make money work for you

Whether you're a careful planner or a spontaneous spender, there’s something here that will make you rethink the way you use your dollars.

Final Thoughts

Happy Money isn’t about having more – it’s about enjoying what you have, and using it to build a richer life.

In a world that often pushes “more is better,” this book is a warm, intelligent nudge to slow down, be thoughtful, and use money as a tool for connection, freedom and joy. At Lifetime, we know that true financial wellbeing isn’t just about the numbers – it’s about the life you build with them. And Happy Money gets that spot on.

Definitely one for the bookshelf – or better yet, to gift to someone you care about. Just don’t forget to write a note with it. That’s where the real value is.