The fleeting joy of new purchases: Why it is never enough
Unraveling the paradox of hedonic adaptation
In a world driven by consumerism, the pursuit of happiness often intertwines with the act of acquiring new possessions. However, the elation derived from buying new things, as research suggests, may only offer temporary satisfaction. The phenomenon known as Hedonic Adaptation sheds light on the paradox where the joy derived from new purchases diminishes over time, highlighting the importance of seeking sustainable sources of happiness.
Understanding hedonic adaptation
Hedonic Adaptation, also known as the “hedonic treadmill,” refers to the human tendency to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events in life. This concept suggests that the initial pleasure derived from acquiring new possessions is short-lived, as individuals swiftly adapt to their improved circumstances, resulting in a return to their baseline level of happiness.
