Gen’s Blog

Much has been written about wars with our own egos–I know I’ve lost my share of battles.  But when I stop and think about the real reason why I want something I often find that I am simply feeding my own ego.  I want others to know that I am successful.  I don’t want others to think I am struggling.  I fall into the “I work hard, so I deserve it” line of thinking that is a recipe for financial disaster.  However, once you are aware of this condition you can begin to take steps to resist the urge to give into your egotistical desires.  Try to find the same joy that you once found in things in other areas of your life.  Learn to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us and is freely available to anyone willing to look.  Go for a walk in the woods, or a barefoot walk in your own backyard.  Read a great book.  Spend time playing with your children.  Volunteer your time to a cause you believe in.  Seek out some of life’s many other simple pleasures. All of these things will fill your life in ways things used to, and they can all be done for next to nothing.

A challenge: Find one thing you’ve been holding on to because it is a status symbol, or a luxury item that you don’t really need.  Give it away to a loved one, or a complete stranger, and enjoy the freedom of a simpler life.

Quoted from Frugal’s blog