Summarize the following:
Start by making a list of all the things you love that don’t require or involve money. Refer to this list often and try to incorporate one or more things on the list into each day. Some things on your list might include: love, laughter, faith, family, long walks, nature, and more. Struggling financially can often lead to unhappiness in life. While it’s often difficult to ever be in a position where money isn’t a concern at all, you can lessen the stress by living within your means. Instead of just buying whatever you want, think through every purchase and mostly only buy the things that you need in order to survive comfortably. If your friend just got the new iPhone and you really like it, take a look at your own phone. If it’s functioning properly, there’s no need to get a new one. If your phone has issues, do some research to see what affordable, reliable phones are currently on the market. Instead of focusing on all of the things you don’t have, try to focus on all of the things you do have. If you’re often wanting more than you possess, you might never feel fulfilled because there are so many fancy, expensive material items out there and you may never be able to buy all of them. Try to get enjoyment out of the things you already own and use. If you’re frustrated because you can’t afford a fun video game that just came out, play some of the games you already own. You bought those for a reason, and you can have fun playing them as well.
Incorporate non-material joys into your life. Buy what you need and not what you want. Desire what you have.