In a world that often equates success with accumulation-more money, more possessions, more achievements-it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that having more is always better. Yet, for some people, this mindset leads to a kind of denial about how much they actually have. They keep acquiring, convinced that the next purchase or achievement will bring happiness, fulfillment, or status. But the truth is often the opposite: more stuff means more work, more stress, and more effort just to maintain what’s already there.
I see this with some clients. Some think that buying more and more toys for kids is what they want but the fact is the kids really want time with you.. the parent .. not the stuff.
When Kids have too much there is overwhelm. Just like when a parent is overwhelmed.. Kids feel it even. more so. I may not be a trained physiologist but I know people and I know stuff. I know the behaviour.
Denial isn’t just about ignoring problems; it can also be about ignoring abundance. Some individuals live in a state of constant wanting, unable to acknowledge the fullness of their current lives. They might say, “I don’t have enough,” even when surrounded by possessions, opportunities, or resources that many would envy. This denial comes from societal pressures, personal insecurities, or the addictive nature of consumerism. Buy, spend and buy.
More Stuff Feels Like a burden and it is.. More work, more organizing, more resources, most important , more time and energy. A valuable resource you just cant get back.
At first glance, many believe that acquiring more seems like a path to comfort and convenience. But every new possession or responsibility adds layers to your life that require time, energy, and money: More maintenance, more organizing, more stress, more to upkeep.
How to Realize That More Isn’t Always Better!!
There are practical steps to help shift perspective. I always tell my clients to read bloggers like Josh Becker, Known as the Minimalist. Don’t let that word “Minimalism” scare you. Its. not about owning nothing its about simplifying, knowing what is valuable to you. Not owning in excess.
We learn to prioritize experiences over things, reflect on usefulness over wastefulness. Practice gratitude and simplify. You will be amazed at how your life shifts.
When you stop denying how much you have and start embracing simplicity, you open the door to freedom. Freedom from the constant chase, freedom from the mental clutter, and freedom to focus on what truly matters-relationships, passions, and peace of mind.
With less stuff you have More time, more energy, and more space to live fully. So next time you feel the urge to add “just one more thing,” pause and ask yourself-will this truly enrich my life, or just add to the work of maintaining it?
True wealth isn’t measured by how much you own, but by how much you can enjoy life without feeling overwhelmed. Embrace the power of less, and discover the joy of living with intention.
I love my friends who live in Hawaii. They are not living in mansions. They are not Uber wealthy ( or they could be and I would never know it) nor do they own huge amounts of stuff. They are out there everyday living life, getting together and the appreciation and the love they share and hold for each other warms my heart every day.
I wish everyone could meet my Hawaii friends and live this way. To My friends in Hawaii, I love you miss you and thank you for showing me friendship, joy and love.
