As children we are groomed to want more than what we have. It is a good philosophy, but lacking in perspective. Wanting more is not unhealthy but often it becomes materialist and greedy. As we pursue the more in our lives we forget to look at what we have. After a while we just see what we do not have.
Having comforts throughout our lives is not a bad thing. Comforts can be very positive on our self esteem and our happiness. When the desire for comforts begin to cause unhappiness is when we need to re-evaluate our needs.
As I look back in my life I can clearly see the materialistic things that were my downfall. Some of these things were for my family and others for me. My children had to have the fashionable and often expensive clothes to feel as though they fit in with the crowd. Peer pressure is very powerful.
Even as adults we are subject to peer pressure known as the old expression, keeping up with the Jones'. Advertisement make us feel that are lives are not complete without their product. Do we believe them? Of course we do because we go right out and buy it in hopes the promises made about the product comes true.
Sacrificing the basics needs to live, such as food, clothing and shelter, we become vulnerable to the predators of advertisement. We soon forget that good enough is actually good enough. It does not have to be the best or newest as long as it serves its purpose.
After years of accumulation we face the dilemma of what do I do with all this stuff? It is truly difficult to let go of things you have had for years or things we have convinced ourselves that we will use one day. Learn to sell, donate or throw. The less items you have the more space you have. The less items you have the more time you have that you will not waste digging through boxes and drawers to find just one item.
The solution is to create a budget and stick to it. After you make a decision to purchase something, wait a few days and then ask yourself, do I really need this item or do I just want it? We have all heard that wanting less gives us more. If the car you have is good enough, then you no longer want a car. You are satisfied and that is more. The old furniture is still in good condition and usable. Why buy something else because the ads say you life will be better if you do. Will it? Do you really want to spend money on items you don't really need?
The difference is between need and want. If it is a real need to satisfy food, clothes and shelter, buy it. If it is just a want, analyze it first and then decide.
There is an adage that I believe originated during World War Two, "use it up, wear it out, make it due or do without". This concept is very modern with the "going green" becoming the new way of life. Refurbishing for decoration, find new ways to use old things and donate. Donated items become new items to someone else.
When less becomes more in your life, you will learn to value the important things in life such as relationships, family and your own self-worth. Money becomes less of an issue and working on relationships become easier without money distractions. After all, what could be better than more love and affection? Not much.
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