Materialism Isn’t Happiness

More isn’t always better. We all tend to have this false sense of security when we have lots of “stuff” or lots of material assets. Have you ever asked yourself…. “Who am I…. the person?” Who are you without all your tangible assets? And… is it really your possessions that make you happy or give you power? There is always a possibility that these “things” can be taken from you at any time. How do you think your life might be with less? Would it change who you are?

I’m not saying that material things aren’t wonderful to have and that you should live without or not to enjoy what you do have. However, I am saying that there is too much importance given to what we have, instead of who we are? Again, ask yourself..” Do I love? Am I generous? Am I genuine? Am I passionate?” These are human qualities that really matter and can bring you happiness. Wouldn’t you rather be admired and respected for who you are, not what you have?

Materialism sometimes fills a void in your life. Perhaps you feel deprived. Maybe it’s a distraction from what may be going on in your personal world. It creates instant gratification; a kind of “quick fix” when you’re feeling down. And we are all prone to comparing what we have to what others have and worrying how that reflects on ourselves. That fact is; that’s the perfect recipe for stress, anxiety and frustration and can lead to unhappiness. That’s your “false sense of security”.

There are more important things in life than material assets. Non-tangible assets like generosity, kindness and compassion to name a few. These are the things that lead to happiness. These are the personal assets that can be with you always and define you. They will bring instant gratification not only to you, but to others. These are riches that can never be purchased.

Find that balance of contentment in your life. Accept what is beneath your dreams and desires. Challenge yourself in knowing who you are in the raw; in this material world, we live in. You may be pleasantly surprised with what you discover about yourself. Acquire things that money cannot buy.

“Live, laugh, and love…. for you are not defined by the things you own.
Happiness cannot be purchased in a store.”
~ Jill Lee ~