Materialism is a term often used in a negative context, linked to lower life satisfaction, self-esteem, and mental health. But what if we redefine materialism as the act of spending money on material objects to maximize positive feelings such as success, happiness, and fulfillment? In this reflective essay, I’ll share my personal journey with materialism, how my perceptions have evolved, relevant studies and psychological theories, and how I plan to use this newfound understanding to shape my future.
A Humble Beginning
Growing up in a lower-class family, our financial resources were limited. I vividly remember the day my father surprised us with a flat-screen television. It was a stark departure from our usual frugal lifestyle. I couldn’t comprehend why he’d make such a purchase when money was already tight. I felt he was the cause of our financial woes, and resentment grew within me. However, my perspective shifted as I grew older, gained financial independence, and faced similar choices.
Balancing Necessities and Luxuries
One pivotal moment was choosing between buying a new laptop, even though my old one still worked (albeit slowly), or going on a vacation with my family. I opted for the laptop, recognizing that it would enhance my life in the long run. This decision allowed me to take on online work and reduced my stress levels. I also invested in high-quality items like a Zara blazer, Nike sports shoes, and a Guess purse. These items have endured for years, proving that sometimes, spending more on quality is a wise decision.
Understanding the Science Behind Materialism
Research supports my experiences. Lee et al. (2018) found that people from lower-income backgrounds derive more happiness from material purchases or experience equal happiness from material and experiential purchases. Socioeconomic status influences this relationship (Thomas & Millar, 2013). The theory of materialism and quality of life (Sirgy, 1998) explains why spending on material objects that enhance one’s living standard can lead to greater life satisfaction, particularly for those from lower socioeconomic classes.
The Thin Line of Materialism
However, it’s crucial to distinguish between spending to improve our lives and spending to impress others or compensate for insecurity. While investing in a high-quality, everyday item makes sense, amassing numerous expensive items for show does not. In the future, especially for high-cost purchases, I’ll evaluate how they contribute to my overall life satisfaction.
Conclusion: The Positive Side of Materialism
Materialism isn’t inherently negative. It can be a tool for self-improvement and enhanced living standards when used thoughtfully. My journey has taught me that materialism can positively impact our lives if we focus on personal growth and life satisfaction rather than external perceptions. Understanding these nuances allows us to make more conscious spending choices, benefiting our future and our overall well-being. Materialism isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept; it varies based on individual circumstances and goals.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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From The Good Men Project on Medium
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