Is it better to have more or need less?

Having More

In Western society we constantly seek to have more. We work to keep up with the Joneses. It’s a never ending pursuit that can lead one to an unhappy life. It’s said that desire is a contract you make with yourself to be unhappy until you get the subject of your desire. However in many contexts having more can be a great thing. More resources to care for your child in case they get sick. More opportunities to lead to a fuller, richer, more abundant life in which you can impact a greater number of people. More is good – unsatiable desire (in which you are unhappy while in pursuit of your desire) is not.

Needing Less

Needing less is a more sustainable way of living. You have less to lose and to fear if you require less. You’re less brittle. You’re life is simpler. But is this an idealistic philosophical concept? Shouldn’t you want to improve the quality of life, the possibilities, the places your family can travel, the experiences they can have?

The AND

Needing less is the baseline. The defensive position that allows you to take risks and pursue upside (having more). If you have become accustomed with requiring less you don’t have as much to fear taking risks that could result in gains (or losses). Appreciate what you have and that you can survive and be happy in scenarios where you have less, while relentless pursuing more.