How to Avoid Materialism & Save Your Family This Holiday Season

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We have officially entered the three month mark of the holiday season. Some of you may have already even begun shopping. Some of you shop year-round regardless of the seasons. So, let's talk about materialism and how it affects family dynamics.

If one partner spends a lot more than the other, it could cause problems, but debt could add up quickly if both partners are materialistic and big spenders. Debt leads to stress, and financial stress often results in divorce.

"Adolescents who associate happiness with material possessions report higher levels of family stress due to family disruption (parental divorce) compared to those who are less likely to associate happiness with material possessions."

Defining Materialism

Understanding the concept of materialism is crucial in navigating its potential impact on our lives. According to Dictionary.com, materialism is a "preoccupation with or emphasis on material objects, comforts, and considerations, with a disinterest in or rejection of spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values." This definition provides a clear insight into the mindset that drives consumerism and its effects on our relationships.

Watch television commercials or look at advertisements enticing you to buy the latest and greatest. They are not a bitconcerned with whether you can afford it or if you need it. But they make it irrisistable, so you feel you must have it.

Do You Know People Who Overspend?

I would challenge you here. You probably have no idea that they are overspending. People live beyond their means all the time. They may drive fancy cars and wear fancy clothes and jewelry. But you do not know how many credit cards they have maxed out. The problem today is that people are more concerned with their image than with living authentically.

I know a couple, and the wife was very fashionable. Her husband pulled mine aside (this was many years ago) and said, "Hey, how much does your wife spend on fashion each month?" My husband replied, " She doesn't. What are you talking about? She rarely shops for herself." Our friend then said, "Oh Lord, I have a huge problem. My wife is spending $2500 a month on herself, and I don't know how much longer I can afford this." My husband came home, hugged me, and thanked me. He then told me how grateful he was to be married to someone who was financially conscious.

I tell that story because this happens all the time. I am no saint. But I am financially responsible. The older I get, the less I need or want.

4 Dangers of Materialism

1. Happiness becomes attached to possessions
2. Overall, poor psychological well-being
3. Low self-esteem
4. No sense of authenticity

How to Overcome Materialism

• Self-awareness. Ask why you are buying it, whether you need it, and what value it will add to your life.
• Practice self-love and acceptance. Often, buying 'stuff' is really trying to fill a void. Maybe you are bored.
• Connect to your higher self. Materialism lacks spirituality.
• Make social connections with people who have strong morals and values. Consider volunteering. Connections are essential.
• Practice detachment. Minimalism is very similar in style, and Santosha, in Sanskrit, means contentment when detaching from desires and cultivating inner peace.

Final Thoughts

So, as we head into the holiday season, remember less is more. The greatest gift you can give anyone is time. Many people spoil their children with lavish gifts, but what they need most is our time, love, attention, listening ears, and respect at every age in life, even as adults. Small gifts are wonderful tokens, but gifts of love mean the most.

The people I know who spend the most are the most lonely. It is quite sad. And, at the end of life, we cannot take anything with us. Why not start giving away the things we don't need to those who do need it far more?

I hope this helps put things in perspective and relieves some stress. Wishing you all the best life has to offer. Spread your magic!

Peace & light,

Libby