A team of researchers from three universities have identified a phenomenon that they call "The Ikea Effect." The name derives from the love millions of Americans feel for Ikea, the wildly successful Swedish-based company whose products usually arrive with some assembly required. In a series of experiments, the researchers had participants assemble Ikea products, fold origami projects, and build sets of Legos. The study concluded, "[Participants experienced] the increase in valuation of self-made products …. [They] saw their amateurish creations … as similar in value to the creations of experts." In other words, the researchers found that when we get personally involved in a project, we have a greater affection for the end product—even when we know it isn't perfect.

One of the researchers for the study described the Ikea Effect this way:

Imagine that you built a table. Maybe it came out a little crooked. Probably your [spouse] or your neighbor would see it for what it is—a shoddy piece of workmanship. But to you that table might seem really great, because you're the one who created it. It's the fruit of your labor. And that is really the idea behind the Ikea Effect.

Possible Preaching Angles:

(1) Priesthood of all believers; Spiritual Gifts; Body of Christ—We are made to participate in the life of the church, not to remain spectators. (2) Work; Vocation—Our work allows us to participate in God's creation mandate to subdue and care for God's creation.