This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Yet, you’re still very much so in debt
We could easily survive with very few belongings if it came down to it.
However, most of us beg to differ.
We believe more is better, and we get stuck in a vicious cycle of attaining more and more and more.
Society teaches us from a very young age that minimalism is boring. We should spend most of our lives accumulating as much wealth and possessions as possible.
But at what cost?
We’re All In Debt
We never consider how our consumption will negatively affect our present and future financial goals.
85% of people have a car payment, most students graduate with student loans, and homeowners don’t usually own their homes.
80% or more of people are in debt in some way; this is the new standard of living. We don’t like paying cash for stuff. We prefer to loan money from people who have it, so we can experience a lifestyle we can’t afford without help from someone else.
What Do Your Possessions Say About You?
Your actual needs are small. You don’t need as much room as you have in your home, you don’t need the overpriced car you drive, you don’t need all of the clothes in your closet, you don’t need the several pairs of shoes you own, you could do away with the massive supply of beauty products sitting in your bathroom, and you probably don’t need all the furnishings in your home.
Most things are superfluous – not necessary.
Do you really need the items you buy? Most likely not. Unless you’re buying food, you probably buy many things you don’t need. And even with food, people are often overspending there as well. Obesity is a rampant issue, which shows just how much we’re not lacking in food as a society.
Financial Overconsumption Is Widespread
Overconsumption is a huge addiction. Whatever happened to the concept of simplicity?
We’re uncomfortable with the concept of minimalism.
I remember several people would come into my home and point out how empty it was. But was it? Or was it simply less full than what they’re used to?
People throughout the last decade have questioned why I still have the same car. My response: Why not? It still works great, and it’s paid off, and I’m unsure of the next car I’m getting. Until I reach that point, I’m good.
It’s always funny; the people who recommend I get a new car are usually in debt themselves.
Remember The Truth
Your actual needs are small. You can live with less.
Living with less equates to improving your financial situation. The less you consume, buy, and spend, the more resources you will have at your disposal.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.