COPING WITH RISING PRICES
Be Content
People who are content are satisfied with their life. And as their circumstances change, they adjust their lifestyle to live within their means.
WHY IT MATTERS
Psychologist Jessica Koehler noted that contented people tend to have a more positive outlook. She also found them to be less envious of others. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that contented people are usually happier and less stressed. In fact, some of the happiest people have little materially. That is especially true of those who place a high value on the things that money cannot buy, such as the joy that comes from spending time with family and friends.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Avoid making comparisons. If you compare your modest lifestyle with the luxurious one that someone else may seem to have, you could become discontented, even envious. Moreover, such comparisons may not reflect reality. Some who have many possessions may actually be deeply in debt. Nicole, who lives in Senegal, says: “I don’t need a lot of things to be happy. If I am content, I can be happy even when others have more than I do.”
Try this: Avoid advertisements or social media posts that highlight the wealth or extravagant lifestyles of others.
Be grateful. Grateful people are more likely to be contented and are less prone to feel that they need or deserve more. Roberton, from Haiti, says: “I take time to reflect on the acts of kindness others have shown to me and my family. Then, I tell those people how much I appreciate what they have done. I also teach my eight-year-old son to say thank you for everything he receives.”
Try this: Keep a “gratitude” journal. Each day, write down something that you are thankful for. It might be good health, a close family, true friends, or even a spectacular sunset.
At times, we all struggle to be content with what we have. But our efforts are worth it! When we choose contentment, we also choose happiness—another quality that money cannot buy.