Being more grateful and less materialistic

Lately, I have been discussing a move to live with my boyfriend in Florida. It is a big move from Texas to Florida, so our discussion led to how many things we each own and what we will need to get rid of. Most of us have TONS of stuff! Things that have collected over the years that made us happy in the first few moments of owning said thing. But now, I find it ironic how some of these things that once made me happy have become a nuisance.I find myself wanting to get rid of the very things that I once thought would bring my joy.

Do we really need all these things? I mean of course there are the basics, but it is truly not a necessity to own a food chopper, because you can chop it yourself! An electric can opener, no need, just use a manual can opener. All those pillows, really? Ideally there should only be one pillow for each head in the home. And decorative pillows? I mean where are we gonna sit?

The stores are filled with people who are out to spend their money for a quick moment of happiness. The mind shift is here: Does owning any particular thing make you happy? Think to yourself as you grasp this thing, will it truly create happiness? Not really.

There is a belief in today's society that owning a bigger home, or having more clothes and shoes, or owning that coveted baseball collectors card, or owning the high end purse, or having purchased the car with all the bells and whistles will make you happy. Ego is what drives the idea that the more we own, the higher our social status and the more important we are in comparison to others. Also known as materialism.

The quest for more sometimes can land us in a lot of trouble. Sometimes the lust for more can take over our reason and logic. What will really help is by asking ourselves what is really driving our feeling to 'need' the things we want.

Mahatma Gandhi believed in living a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency. Living a simple life can lead to less stress and a healthier life by living a more grateful life. Mainly because we forego thoughts of the never-ending pursuit of the next thing that will make us happy. Being grateful for what we have eases tension by embracing the things we already have, enjoying the taste of the foods we eat and/or by spending more quality time with those we nearest and dearest to us.

Studies have shown that people who are less materialistic and more grateful suffered from less illnesses, are less bothered by aches and pains, have stronger immune systems, have better sleep quality and are even happier in their relationships.

So looking back at those things that I am yearning to get rid of,  I am reminded to be grateful for the things I have and enjoy them with those I care about. But also to think more wisely about my purchases in the future. Because ultimately life is happiest when we are thankful for every thing and experience in this life. It is in shifting the mind to a more simplistic and more grateful way of living is where happiness is found.