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Then find a way to live without them
I have to sleep with the tv on.
I have to sleep with the lights on.
I have to have my pack of cigarettes.
I have to smoke my weed.
I have to have a fully furnished home.
I have to have the latest fashion.
I have to have decor on every wall of my home.
I have to have only x brand of water.
I have to consume organic vegetables and fruits.
I have to hang around certain people.
I have to dedicate my life and time to my company.
I have to have kids.
I have to get married.
I have to get in a piece of gum.
I have to have dessert with every meal.
I have to watch porn before I go to sleep.
I have to give my opinion every time someone offers me theirs.
I have to stay in a five-star hotel.
I have to drive a luxury vehicle.
I have to have several pairs of shoes.
I have to be in a relationship.
I have to be married by x age.
I have to earn x amount of dollars.
I have to wear makeup before leaving the house.
I have to wear makeup every day.
I have to get x cosmetic procedure or treatment.
I have to look a certain way all the time.
I have to get my daily fix.
I have to be on medication for the rest of my life.
I have to live with someone.
I have to take a warm shower.
I have to avoid telling the truth so I don’t rock the boat.
Reflection
What are all the things you believe you can’t live without? Why do you believe you can’t live without these? Who are you without these things and people? When did you start adopting these beliefs?
Take a moment to write down everything you can’t live without. The challenge for you is to live without them for a day and notice the emotions that arise from the absence of that thing.
Mass Thinking Is A Trap
Most of us fall into the trap of thinking as everyone else does. We are quick to adopt the habits, behaviors, and thinking patterns of others without question.
We’re essentially following a program written for us instead of writing our program.
Have you ever taken a moment to question your desires, thoughts, and habits? Why do you think the way you do? Why do you live the way you do? Why do you desire the things you do?
Most of the time, it’s because everyone else is similar.
Question everything because who you are is often not genuinely you.
Traveling Is A Good Teacher
Traveling has been one of my best teachers for learning how to live with less. When traveling to multiple countries and taking flight after flight, you never know what you will lose or be taken away. You might land without your bag in tow. You might finish security with less than you began.
Minimalism Is The Way To Live
My best friend recently came and visited me. They were surprised by how much I didn’t have in my home and how I could use one thing for multiple purposes, preventing me from buying things with only one purpose.
Less is more. Learning how to live with less is learning how to live.
The materialism vs. minimalism debate
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.