At some point in midlife, it hits you. Maybe it’s the fourth set of wine glasses that doesn’t fit in the cabinet, or the box of gadgets in the garage labeled “Just in Case.” Maybe it’s the antique bread machine you never used but moved three times. Whatever the trigger, the realization is universal: we’re full. Full of stuff, full of storage bins, full of “what was I thinking?” purchases.
And yet, what do most of us never regret? That impromptu weekend road trip to the coast. The concert under the stars. The cooking class where you and your partner discovered both a new pasta recipe and the joy of laughing at each other in aprons. These moments don’t collect dust—they collect value.
The idea of investing in experiences over things isn’t just a whimsical Pinterest quote or a minimalist’s manifesto. It’s backed by research. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that people reported greater happiness from experiential purchases—such as vacations, concerts, or special meals—than from material ones. In fact, the anticipation of an experience alone can produce more happiness than the actual purchase of an item.
It makes sense when you think about it. Stuff depreciates. That designer handbag? Out of fashion next season. The latest tech gadget? Replaced by something shinier before you’ve even memorized your password. But memories have a sneaky way of gaining value over time. That sunset you watched on a mountainside, breathless and content? It doesn’t go obsolete. If anything, it becomes richer, funnier, more meaningful in the retelling.
Of course, this isn’t to say there’s anything wrong with loving beautiful things. A cozy reading chair or a treasured family heirloom absolutely has its place. But many of us are drowning in more than our fair share of “might-need-this” clutter. And midlife offers a unique opportunity—a kind of emotional inventory—to reassess what we really need.
If you’re ready to shift from collecting things to collecting memories, you don’t have to travel far. Dallas and Collin counties are packed with opportunities to enjoy meaningful experiences—many right in your own neighborhood.
Start with local event calendars like VisitDallas.com, VisitMcKinney.com, or VisitDowntownPlano.com. These sites regularly feature community festivals, outdoor concerts, wine walks, and food events—perfect excuses to get out and try something new.
Want something more hands-on? Take a class. You can try your hand at pottery in Wylie, sign up for painting nights in Frisco, or learn to cook something fabulous at Central Market or Sur La Table. You’ll walk away with new skills—and maybe a good story or two.
Don’t overlook the beauty and charm in your own backyard. Spend a day wandering the Dallas Arboretum, take a peaceful hike at the Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, or explore historic downtowns like Grapevine or Celina, where local shops, wineries, and murals make for a great afternoon.
If you’re looking for inspiration on the go, download apps like Eventbrite, Meetup, or Airbnb Experiences. These are gold mines for pop-up events, group adventures, and one-of-a-kind outings hosted by locals who love sharing their passions.
Finally, join a club or community group. Whether it’s a walking group in Plano, a book club in Allen, or a wine tasting night in Dallas, connecting with others makes every experience richer—and builds lasting connections along the way.
Investing in experiences doesn’t have to mean jet-setting around the globe. Local concerts, weekend getaways, a class at the community center, or even planning a family “staycation” with themed dinners and board games can all offer meaningful returns on your investment. What matters is the intention behind it: the choice to be present, engaged, and curious.
And if you need one more nudge: experiences are notoriously hard to re-gift.
