Can You Buy Happiness? (The Happiness Project)

Throughout 2025, I launched a monthly exploration of how small, intentional choices can lead to a more joyful life, both on and off the court. This series was inspired by “The Happiness Project ” by Gretchen Rubin. Essentially, we are taking each theme from her books original monthly framework and reimagining it in a tennis context. As the calendar flips to July, we are turning our attention to a topic that’s both controversial and problematic. Specifically, the theme is money and exploring the idea of whether it is possible to “Buy Some Happiness.”

Of course, it’s pretty much conventional wisdom that money can’t buy happiness. However, research consistently shows that people with more money are generally happier than those with less. That doesn’t mean wealth guarantees joy, but it does suggest that financial resources can create the conditions that support it. I’m also aware that many people have a difficult relationship with money, and that the link between spending and happiness can get muddled by guilt, anxiety, or the extremes of spending too much or too little. Money is a complicated topic.

One way to cut through the complexity is to think more about spending intentionally. In tennis, where costs can accumulate quickly, it’s easy to confuse mindless consumption with an investment. But there are moments when a well-timed, thoughtful splurge can genuinely increase your enjoyment of the game. These aren’t extravagant purchases but rather small upgrades that can bring you joy in practical ways.

I brainstormed ten ways to more intentionally deploy money to increase joy in tennis.

Invest in New Racquets. It amazes me how many players spend heavily on tennis but use outdated racquets that don’t suit their game. Demoing a few frames and upgrading to a good racquet well-suited to your playing style and characteristics is money well spent.
Pay Attention to the Strings. Strings are often an afterthought, but they have a huge impact on feel, control, and injury prevention. Too many players wait until they break before restringing and then just use whatever their pro shop has on hand. Paying attention to your strings can make a significant performance difference.
Get a Better Racquet Bag. A well-designed and stylish racquet bag keeps your gear organized, protected, and easy to carry. It’s a small upgrade that adds convenience and a sense of polish every time you head to the court.
Stop Skimping on Tennis Shoes. High-quality tennis shoes provide better support, stability, and help prevent injuries. Don’t wait until your knees ache—replace them when the cushioning starts to wear out.
Play on an Iconic or Historic Court. Whether it’s red clay, pristine grass, or a court steeped in tradition, hitting balls in a storied setting can turn a routine session into a lifelong memory.
Book Time at a Tennis Resort. Even a short weekend getaway at a tennis resort can offer the perfect blend of rest, recreation, and inspiration. It’s a splurge that pays dividends in both skill and spirit.
Take a Lesson from a Highly Regarded Pro. Every so often, a lesson with a top-tier coach can unlock a new level of understanding in your game. It might cost more, but the breakthroughs can last for years.
Attend a Professional Tournament. Seeing the pros up close can be deeply motivating. Attending one or more of the majors should be on every tennis player’s bucket list.
Upgrade Your Socks. High-quality tennis socks reduce blisters, improve comfort, and help keep your feet dry. It’s a small splurge that makes a big difference during long matches or hot days.
Purchase Quality Sunglasses. Protecting your eyes from glare while maintaining sharp vision is both a performance enhancer and a health investment. Don’t overlook this opportunity.

The point of this month’s theme isn’t to encourage reckless spending or to chase happiness through consumerism. Rather, it’s a reminder that how we spend our money reflects what we value. Sometimes, giving ourselves permission to invest in something meaningful is a smart choice. A modest splurge that enhances your tennis life might not be essential, but it can make the game more enjoyable. Money may not buy happiness, but it can edge us a little closer to it when spent with intentionality.

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Throughout 2025, I am dedicating the first full weekend of every month to exploring how ideas from Gretchen Rubin’s The Happiness Project (<- Sponsored Link) can spark greater enjoyment and happiness in tennis. This is a non-tennis book that I have come to believe everyone should read. Seriously, you should get your hands on a copy of this book and consider trying some of the techniques described by the author.