Friday, September 5, 2008

Money = Happiness?

We've all heard that money can't buy happiness -- but researchers have discovered there are certain things money can buy that do lead to happiness: Whatever promotes social interaction -- like a new barbecue grill for a neighborhood cookout, or a vacation with friends or loved ones.

Fond memories are huge joy boosters, because they often only get better over time. Quick -- think about your last pleasure trip. Now think about whatever toy you bought at around the same time. Which thought makes you happier?

I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that taking a break for a little while and charging my "happy sectors" just makes me feel alive again. I'm more vibrant and productive when I return to my "daily grind." So I think it's really great when certain companies reward their employees (and, in some cases, their customers) for excellence/loyalty with "experience rewards" -- like dinners and retreats and vacations -- rather than just "stuff rewards" -- like cash or a new TV. And, really, sometimes you have to almost force a hard worker to take a vacation!

There's a company called Bellwether Rewards that specializes in such "corporate incentive programs" -- though any business could take advantage of this because of the tiered reward levels. A business could gift a few of its top performers with a higher-level 7-day getaway to a Caribbean resort, or spread the appreciation around to even more stars with a little trip to a Canadian retreat or a spa in one of several U.S. destinations. Even the weekend getaways to some great places in Canada, California, and Florida would be a fantastic rejuvenating treat.

Bellwether takes care of all the airfare, accommodations, and ground transportation for the lucky travelers. All the boss has to worry about is promoting the incentives to his/her employees! I know if I ever worked at a place that offered such cool rewards for hard work, I'd really bust my butt to win!

'Cause have I mentioned? I need a vacation!

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