Once You Get Money, Upgrade These 7 Things Immediately

Seven Worthwhile Ways to Spend Extra Money

The video argues that extra money is often better spent improving everyday life than upgrading possessions for their novelty. It presents seven worthwhile upgrades:

1. Remove recurring daily irritations. Identify problems that bother you repeatedly—such as a long commute, a noisy bedroom, an uncomfortable chair, or a slow laptop—and spend on practical fixes. A shorter commute, for example, can return many hours each year.

2. Choose experiences that become memories. Trips, classes, and time with friends may bring more lasting happiness than material purchases. Choose something new, ideally with people close to you. Plan ahead, and value the experience itself rather than sharing it online.

3. Build connections beyond your close circle. Acquaintances may introduce you to opportunities your closest friends don’t know about. Consider industry conferences, professional communities, or masterclasses, and follow up with people you meet within a couple of days.

4. Spend more on frequently used essentials. Compare an item’s cost with how often and how long you’ll use it. Durable, comfortable shoes, chairs, beds, or work tools may be better value over time than cheaper items that need frequent replacement. Save on things you rarely use.

5. Invest in skills that can raise your income. Useful courses, valued certifications, job-related software, or advice from someone experienced may pay off financially. Choose learning you can apply within 90 days, complete one course at a time, and put it into practice.

6. Pay to reclaim time. If affordable, outsource tasks you dislike or choose options that reduce time spent on chores and commuting. Start with one or two tasks, then use the freed-up time for priorities such as learning, exercise, work, or loved ones.

7. Create a focused workspace. Set up a comfortable, distraction-reduced place for work, study, or personal projects. A sturdy table, comfortable chair, good lighting, and a few plants can help you concentrate. The space doesn’t need to be expensive.

Research and Examples

The video cites research suggesting that spending on time-saving services and experiences can support greater life satisfaction, while material upgrades often lose their novelty through hedonic adaptation.

Notable researchers and organizations mentioned include Ashley Willans, Alois Stutzer, Bruno Frey, Mark Granovetter, Lief Van Boven, Thomas Gilovich, and Harvard Business School. Other examples include LinkedIn, noise-canceling headphones, laptops, chairs, shoes, and a private workroom. The video also mentions trips, mountains, and design conferences but does not name specific destinations.