1. Spend your money on experiences
It is mainly the things you share with others that make you happy, says Dijksterhuis. 'The happiness you get from new things lasts a very short time, but fun nights out, good food with friends and family, those are all things that make you happier.'
2. Go on a trip
Speaking of experiences: above all, book that long-planned trip. Dijksterhuis: 'Travelling, especially to a country that surprises or amazes, is refreshing for your brain. When you see and experience new things, it cleans up the mental dirt that has accumulated in your mind.' This doesn't have to be a weeks-long journey, by the way. 'Research seems to suggest that it's better to go on four short holidays than one long one, although we don't know that for sure yet.'
3. Buy time and rest
Time is our most scarce commodity. And for those who can afford it, Dijksterhuis therefore recommends 'buying' time. 'Take - if you work hard and have enough money - a domestic help, for instance. Money you spend to save free time, to be able to do the things you like, makes you happy.'
4. Give something to someone else
Still no idea what to do with your money? Give something to someone else. According to Dijksterhuis, people feel happier when they help others or give them something. 'That feeling of happiness comes from positive feedback. When you feel that other people are grateful, you start feeling better about yourself too,' says Dijksterhuis. Scientific research shows that. 'Students were all given twenty dollars,' says Dijksterhuis. 'One half was asked to buy a gift for themselves, the other half had to buy a gift for someone else. Afterwards, the latter group turned out to be happier.'