"Here's a way to think about what the masses regard as being 'good' things. If you would first start by setting your mind upon things that are unquestionably good—wisdom, self-control, jus-tice, courage-with this preconception you'll no longer be able to listen to the popular refrain that there are too many good things to experience in a lifetime." —MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 5.12
Just like many of us, I come from an extremely long line of people who have lived just above, and sometimes below, the poverty line. A majority of my ancestors were people whose main goal, most of the time, was just meeting their basic needs and surviving. When we grow up in these circumstances it’s easy to covet wealth and the all of the material things it provides for us. I think, most of all, people crave the perceived security money can provide. Wealth is viewed as a cure all and many sacrifice the best years of their lives and time with their families and friends for work and chasing “success”.
It’s important not to let this pursuit of wealth become the sole focus of our lives at the expense of the quality of our life experience and human relationships. I’ve seen this happen a lot in the crypto and legacy investment communities. You only have to read the cautionary tales of the X account, Coinfessions to learn about the horror stories of those who have lived in an unbalanced way, had their perception clouded by greed, and began to value money over everything else in their lives.
I’ve been in both situations and can tell you that having some money is a hell of a lot better than having no money but both have their pros and cons. Once our basic needs are met and we achieve financial independence, adding more money to the pile doesn’t necessarily make us any happier. In fact, wealth can bring with it its own set of unique problems—like scammers, thieves, jealousy, and endless worry not to mention the fear that the privileges and luxuries that wealth gives us will somehow be snatched away. Wealth can also cause us to live in a bubble, leaving us ignorant of the struggles and challenges most people are going through.
Although it’s admirable to strive to reach financial independence for us and our families, it's important in your pursuit of your dreams not to lose sight of the things that really matter. Despite what the mainstream media will have you believe debt is an enemy of our mental and psychological freedom but excessive wants are equally as harmful to our wellbeing. They call them “the trappings of wealth” for a reason because excessive wants become endless and they can imprison you every bit as much as mountains of debt can.
Like everything in life, it’s all about balance.
There’s so much satisfaction in living a simple and meaningful life, built on healthy relationships, and making memorable experiences. Each new day should be met with deep gratitude for the positive people and things in our lives. Forget the Lambo, the G-Wagon, and mansions with rooms you’ll never use to impress people you don’t know. As the bull market begins to ramp up later this year (which I still believe will happen) take those profits but also remember to be grateful for that abundance and never forget that contentment is the ultimate flex. Sometimes it's good to just be grateful to be alive.
For the coming week, set a notification on your mobile device for once during the morning and once in the afternoon yourself….
I’m immensely grateful for my life and the wonderful people and things in it.
This will serve as a daily reminder throughout the next week to honor the abundance we all have in our lives as we continue the dogged pursuit of our dreams and freedom. Gratitude is the true catalyst of joy.
Happy Easter Everyone!
Be well, make the most of this day. Thank you for reading!
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When Chavez took office in 2000, he told all Venezuelans that being rich was bad. Many people bought that message, not knowing that they would start a bad relationship with money. Having money is not bad. It is bad that money is above yourself. So good it is to have money and be able to do the things you love the most: like traveling, working on what you want, being your own boss and even helping people. In my daily life, the first thing I do when I wake up and when I go to sleep at night is to say thank you. Everything you are thankful for, multiplies. In infinite gratitude to you, my friend. Hugs
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I agree. So many people think money is the root of all evil but it's really the love of money and greed. Extolling the virtues of poverty and demonizing financial independence is a such a common tactic for those leaders seeking to control a populace. It's a shame that happened to your country and I really hope things change for the better. Many of the Soviet-era leaders did the same thing. It's so important to be grateful because it opens the door to more abundance. Thank you and I wish you a wonderful (and abundant) week!
This omg..
It’s important not to let this pursuit of wealth become the sole focus of our lives at the expense of the quality of our life experience and human relationships.
I’ve seen people throw away everything except for their career. Sure it’s nice to be secure and not having to worry about the future, but is it worth it when you lose all your friends and not even your family wants to reconnect with you? Enjoying life and being happy is among the only things that matters :)
I've seen that happen to a lot of people too. I think people just become addicted to the dopamine that taking risks and constantly getting wealthier creates. It's so important to remember that we can't take it with us. I view money as "fun tickets". : )
Couldn’t have said it better!!
My family was poor but had everything necessary to avoid hardship and raise our children. They had a saying: "You cover yourself as much as the blanket will reach." By this they meant that it wasn't good to be ambitious. I would be content with having enough income to own a house, raise my children, eat, and pay for healthcare. There's no doubt that money can bring a lot of security; it's quite another thing that it brings happiness.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, dear friend @ericvancewalton . A big hug from Maracay.
That's all that really matters. That's how I was raised as well! Thanks for reading and commenting my friend!
Not rich nor poor, never wanted for anything, did a lot around the home together. Balanced learning from young.
Happy Easter.
You were lucky to be raised in such a balanced way! Happy Easter!
Grateful for it, taught one to respect what we have.
I love that account coinfessions, but as many people point out, it is hard to know if the stories are real or just made up. The funny thing is, even if it is made up, it is totally believable in this day and age? I don't think there is much that shocks me anymore!
Yeah, I've heard the same suspicions. It could even be a psy-op to try to deter people from entering crypto. Nothing would surprise me.
Some of them are pretty funny, but sad enough that you know it could have really happened. Especially if you have been in the space for a while.
Some of the stories make me cringe deep down in my soul for that very reason...most of us have been close to doing the same thing. : )
For sure!
Happy Easter to you Eric.
While I am not a believer, I can still appreciate the music.
Happy Easter! The music is wonderful.
Achieving wealth could be a success for one's life, but it is also important that how well you have spent this wealth during your lifetime.
True! You can do a lot of good with it.
very interesting article. good evening my brother.
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#hive #posh
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STOPI am equally grateful for my life. Wishing you the best out of life
We should always be grateful for the life God blesses us with