Our planet is filled with products and material things that many of us find irresistible. Expensive jewelry, fast cars, large properties, and the latest tech are among our favorite things to buy and own. It seems that the moment we buy one thing, we already have an eye on another, and then another. The only problem is: where is the money coming from?
The temptation to buy these and so many other things can be so alluring that some people fail to see the damage it might cause to their lives. The pressure to find the money is immense, and getting a second job often feels too slow and inconvenient. Faster ways of getting money, such as borrowing, can worsen the situation, leading to strained relationships and even ruining lives. And when asked whether they can afford to borrow, the answer is often an emphatic, “Yes, absolutely.”
Then there’s the darker side of the determination to get what we want quickly, often accompanied by greater risks. Common “quick fix” solutions may include theft, lies, deceit, forgery, gambling, and, in extreme cases, even violence or other criminal activities too numerous to mention.
Keeping Up with the Joneses
Sometimes it’s not about the things we personally want but rather about having things to “keep up with the Joneses.” For some, the mere perception that someone else is doing better is intolerable. For instance, a neighbour’s 2018 model Ferrari might outshine their 2017 Porsche, or someone’s lawn might look greener, or another family’s child might attend an elite private school while theirs does not.
Such comparisons can drive people mad with jealousy or envy. For some, failing to match or surpass the Joneses’ achievements or possessions can feel like a personal failure. This emotional distress can lead to feelings of hatred and psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. Ultimately, life becomes a never-ending chase for something greater or better.
The Goalposts Keep Moving
Victories in this pursuit are fleeting. Just when we feel we’ve “caught up” with the Joneses, something new catches our attention, reigniting the desire for material possessions. One moment we feel “victorious,” and the next, we’re back to our old ways.
Unfortunately, no matter how wonderful our lives may seem, clever marketing often makes us feel that what we have is inadequate. Neighbors who thrive on competition may even flaunt their possessions to make us feel left behind.
How Do We Overcome Materialism?
To overcome materialism, we need to understand what drives our choices. Why do we insist on having the latest, greatest, fastest, and most stylish gadgets? The answer may not sit well with most people, but it reveals a deep truth we often avoid admitting: we want something to brag about or show off.
“But wait,” you might say, “I would never do such a thing!” If that’s how you feel, try this experiment: the next time you talk to a neighbour or host visitors, record the conversation. Later, play it back while pretending that your voice belongs to someone else. Listen carefully to your words. You might discover that, without realising it, you’ve become a salesperson for the things you own—often highlighting items you know are “better” than what your guests have.
A good “sales pitch” often makes people feel good about themselves. It can act like an emotional boost, almost like an anti-depressant. It’s that “look how wonderful I am” moment that many of us unconsciously crave.
What we lack when we feel the need to compete is love. If we truly loved others, we wouldn’t desire competition. We wouldn’t look to make others feel inferior or outdone. If we loved people more, we would share, help others, and genuinely want everyone to be happy.
Materialism ruins lives, or does it? What do you think?
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