What Does a Great Birthday Present Look Like?

Positive psychology tells us a few important things about present giving:

1. Materialism makes us unhappy
2. Meaningful experiences give us longer lasting happiness  compared to buying stuff.
3. Giving makes us happier than receiving.

It was my birthday recently, so I decided to apply these findings to my own life. I spoke to my loved ones and we came up with some non-materialistic gifts.

My new down-pipe!

My partner donated some money to my two favourite charities - MSF and Oxfam. I feel very happy every time I think of it. He also fixed my leaking down-pipe. This also makes me happy not only when I walk past it but also whenever it rains!

My son, Patrick has designed a swanky new e-newsletter for my business. He is also giving me some running lessons. It is astounding that I am approaching 50 and I don't know how to run, isn't it?!

My daughter, Ellie is teaching me how to style my hair and is going to help with my packing for our upcoming trip to Europe (She is an expert in 'One Bag' packing).

I am thrilled with all of these presents. 

What would non-materialistic birthday presents look like for you? Would you enjoy them more than some new stuff?

Note for the unwary - I have discovered that people who are expecting perfume don't like an oxfam 'I bought you a goat' card.