Less is More
The inspiration to write this piece came from a newsletter that I received from a creator that I follow very closely (here's the link for you to check out when you’re done reading this one.) In it, he discussed his recent experience with a month-long social media detox that he conducted and how, in our current world climate, we are so inundated with stimuli.
I have to say that I concur.
We live in a culture where “more” is overvalued, at least in my opinion. Excess is placed on such a high pedestal and I don’t think it’s possible to ever reach the top. This way of thinking poses a problem because it directly suggests that despite our best efforts, nothing will ever be enough. Sure, we may experience some highs occasionally, but what good is it to always strive for something and never attain it?
It’s a frightening thought.
Overconsumption is very real and it can wreak serious havoc on our mental health. When we program ourselves to engage in taking in mindless information during every spare second we have, our ability to be present and be fully human takes a toll. Our minds are swayed like brittle trees amidst a hurricane.
For some reason, wanting fewer material possessions in exchange for clarity and valuing happiness over more money will make you be seen as a lunatic. Ask yourself: is this an erroneous way of thinking?
There’s a parable that goes something like this:
“You need to study hard.”
“For what?”
“So that you can get into a good school.”
“For what?”
“So that you can get a well-paying job.”
“For what?”
“So that you will be able to relax.”
“What am I doing now?”
In the newsletter from earlier, Nathaniel states that breaks are the secret to long-term productivity and, by extension, results. Can you see the parallels between the parable and his conclusion?
The fact of the matter is that overconsumption tendencies must be done away for. I mean, there’s a reason that so many religions and philosophies make the argument for restraint and frugality. Exercising these characteristics allows us to deeply and truly realize that maybe we don’t need more- maybe we have enough.
Life shouldn’t be a race to a non-existent finish line. Instead, it should be a stroll in a park where you remember to take a moment to stop and observe the beauty of everything that you already have around you.
When you realize that you don’t need more, that less is actually more (while still being less), you open yourself up to the possibility of acceptance, contentment, and simplicity.
(If you are planning on purchasing an item from Amazon, please consider doing so through the affiliate links in my book list (found under the “Book List” tab on my website, www.alanrr.com). When you do so, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It may just be a click for you but every little bit helps the project. :) )
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