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The stoic’s thoughts on materialism
The more money we make, the more money we tend to spend. Most people live above their means, keep up with the latest gadgets, drive a luxurious car, or they won’t feel “cool.” It’s normal for us to hoard a bunch of pointless things that don’t add value or genuine joy to our lives.
Materialism’s Message: Being in debt is okay because it’s important to keep up a certain image. Buy, buy, buy, and buy unintentionally. You need to have the “best.”
Stoicism continuously reminds me not to get caught up in the accumulation of things. It is too easy to forget that materialism is nothing but an empty pursuit in a world obsessed with things.
Here are three of my favorite passages relating to material possessions:
“Don’t set your heart on so many things,” says Epictetus. Focus, Prioritize. Train your mind to ask: Do I need this thing? What will happen if I do not get it? Can I make do without it? The answers to these questions will help you relax, help you cut out all the needless things that make you busy – too busy to be balanced or happy.” – The Daily Stoic, p 69
“So, concerning the things we pursue and for which we vigorously exert ourselves, we owe this consideration – either there is nothing useful in them, or most aren’t useful. Some of them are superfluous, while others aren’t worth that much. But we don’t discern this and see them as free when they cost us dearly.” – The Daily Stoic, p 75
“[…] in a society of ever-bigger houses and ever more possessions: [..] there’s a hidden cost to all of that accumulating.” – The Daily Stoic, p 75
Never compromise your financial health or goals for material possessions.
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