Fulfillment isn’t about possessions — it’s about value

I used to believe that spending lots of money led to a happier life.

I thought I needed expensive clothes, the latest iPhone, and a Starbucks coffee every morning. After all, that was the impression I got from my friends on social media. But I’ve since learned that I was wrong.

Happiness comes from intentionality — instead of possessions. Because when you have time and space for what’s important, it’s much easier to wake up with a smile every morning.

Read also: 15 signs you will be financially free in the next 15 years

Here are seven things I stopped buying to live a happier life:

1) Clothes I Don’t Need

I used to go to H&M several times per month to buy lots of clothes. I had approximately 20 t-shirts in my wardrobe and way too many socks. As you can imagine, my bedroom was a mess due to the sheer amount of stuff.

But a couple of years ago, I started traveling around the world. So, I packed my favorite clothes in my suitcase and donated the rest to charity. Doing that made me happy as I no longer needed to pay overweight luggage fees at the airport. Yay!

2) New Technology

“If it’s not broken, don’t replace it.” That’s my motto.

I’ve kept the same iPhone for several years and refuse to buy tech unless it’ll improve my life. For example, I recently brought a new power bank to ensure I don’t run out of battery while on long walks.

That’s what minimalism is all about: owning stuff that adds value and meaning. And once you solely own things that serve a purpose, it’ll be much easier to live a happier and more fulfilling life.

3) Brand Name Items

I’m happier when I spend less money.

I don’t see the point in buying a branded T-shirt for $100 when I can get a generic one for $10. The same applies to food. I buy store brands because they taste similar to the bigger, commercial branded products.

4) Overpriced Coffee

Some of my friends spend $100+ per month at Starbucks. If you also do that, great. Nobody should criticize you for something that makes you happy (as long as you can sustainably afford it).

I brew coffee at home every morning for approximately $0.28 per cup. It’s quick, easy, and cheap to make. And, of course, I don’t have to spend money on gas to drive to the nearest Starbucks store.

It’s great!

5) Expensive Souvenirs

I traveled around Europe in 2018. During that trip, I purchased several keychains from overpriced souvenir stores in every country. My apartment was so cluttered that I often felt stressed and anxious.

But now, I spend money on experiences, instead of things. For example, I’m in Sydney right now. Whilst I’m here, I plan on visiting museums, going to the beach, and doing other enjoyable things.

Doing that is much better than buying a keychain I’ll probably never use.

6) Netflix And Other TV Subscriptions

I was part of the mass exodus. When Netflix raised its prices, I walked out of the door faster than the speed of light. Okay… maybe not that quick. But you know what I mean.

I don’t subscribe to TV streaming services anymore. Nor do I have cable. Instead, I watch Gordon Ramsay yell at people who can’t cook an omelet on YouTube.

Full disclosure: I pay for YouTube Premium to avoid annoying ads. It’s worth every cent.

Read also: 7 principles that will help you live a better life (powerful)

7) Things I Can’t Afford

“We buy things we don’t need with money that we don’t have to impress people we don’t like,” said Dave Ramsey. “You must gain control over your money, or the lack of it will forever control you.”

Dave is right. For a long time, my expenses were higher than my income. It was also difficult to sleep at night because I was worried about not having enough money to pay my bills.

Since then, I’ve realized that buying things I can’t afford makes me unhappy. It’s pointless. So, I don’t do it anymore. Instead, I spend money on things that genuinely make me happy, such as books, train tickets, and mango (to name a few). And as you might expect, my life is so much better now.

CONTRIBUTED BY Matt Lillywhite

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