Comments on: Finding Contentment With What You Have

By: Benjamin James

Benjamin James — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 15:32:29 +0000

Great post.

Two thoughts that I have tried to live by (which has been good for my wallet as well as happiness) are:

1. “I have just enough”. So often we get in the mindset that we need more. But when I look in my cluttered basement and closets, the truth is that I have plenty. I’m not lacking anything. In fact, I’m working on sorting through all of those things that “I just needed at the time”, but are now collecting dust. When we learn to be content with what we have, then that is when we can start managing our money better and also start enjoying what we already have.

2. Don’t focus on what other people have (even if “everybody else” has it.) We do this with items like a 3D television set, but also with major life changing things; such as buying a house, getting married, having kids, etc. I’ve known people who essentially went out and sought a spouse because “all of their friends are married now or are getting married.” Don’t make decisions based on what other people are doing. Do and buy what is right for you. If you focus on other people in this manner, you will always be trying to chase happiness instead of just being happy.

By: jake

jake — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 23:14:18 +0000

If only I could get my wife off of pinterest!!! haha it’s true what’s been said – comparing to the jones’ just leads to frustration! Great post and great advice for being happy with what you have!

By: Amy @ JobCred CV Builder

Amy @ JobCred CV Builder — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 10:23:58 +0000

What a really helpful reminder.. I guess as long as you are well aware of that tendency, there is no harm if the aim is just gather some rich ideas. It provides future benefit especially if one is aware of more choices and had the opportunity to compare things well.

By: Liquid

Liquid — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 03:01:39 +0000

There’s no point to compare myself others because no one in the entire world can do a better job of being me than myself :0) I think just taking a look around what’s happening in the rest of the world right now can make anyone realize how lucky they are if they have a home, a family, decent health, and a safe environment to live in

By: Mrs Money

Mrs Money — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:01:19 +0000

cavewoman- I think that is a good idea. I should take a Facebook and internet break…

You are always full of wisdom and I truly appreciate your comments. <3

By: Mrs Money

Mrs Money — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:57:23 +0000

frugal expat- I completely agree! I feel so blessed that we have Penny and that we are all healthy that I figure we can get through whatever else life throws at us!

By: Mrs Money

Mrs Money — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:56:41 +0000

Kacie- I agree. It is so hard when you see pictures of someone’s perfectly decorated and clean house! Mine is NOT like that!

By: Mrs Money

Mrs Money — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 18:56:00 +0000

Terry- I think as long as you are happy, that is the most important thing! I think sometimes you have to not worry about what other people think (as hard as that is!).

By: cavewoman

cavewoman — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:13:04 +0000

Comparing yourself to the Joneses really is a path to frustration. Even when what you have is plenty wonderful.

Isn’t is a curiousity of human nature that we do that? We are quirky things.

I find that if I take a break from media ( t.v., facebook, etc), for a week or so….and plan to take a walk more regularly or spend more time with friends that I do a lot better. My attitude improves greatly.

Glad that you have found a way to improve your happiness.

Oh—and for the fun of it ( do google “happiness jars Elizabeth Gilbert” ). You will see a fun way that folks are reminding themselves of their blessings.

By: frugal expat

frugal expat — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 01:47:55 +0000

Sometimes when I am down, I simply think of my loving family, my little boy, and how grateful I am as we are all healthy and safe.

Just that thought makes me richer..

Cheers