Trapped on the Treadmill

Sometimes referred to as the hedonistic treadmill, this is a machine always in motion. As material possessions increase, so do our expectations about what is needed to feel good/happy/fulfilled. Because all the things we deem essential are taken for granted, expectations rise. As newer, bigger and better items become the next “must haves”, thinking the attainment of those things will make us happy, assures that the cycle will continuously repeat itself.

What were the last few things that you were simply dying to have? Have they made a difference in your life and enhanced your well-being? While there is nothing wrong with making and having money and enjoying the fruits of your labor, remember to foster personal ties along with increasing financial gains.

To find out which culprits rev up the speed of this treadmill and how can they be minimized, read on:

• Material madness – satisfaction brought from possessions is often fleeting, as the things craved soon become the norm. Conversely, we remember, cherish and re-live the meaningful experiences which are significant in our lives.
• Bound by “bling” – do you own your possessions or do they own you? If you feel enslaved by your things, it’s time to consider what to discard, curb purchases, or re-examine attitudes about what is really of importance to you.
• Buyer’s remorse – not only true after purchasing big ticket items like a car or home, but felt after buying almost any commodity: after the initial high, a significant drop in satisfaction occurs, then onto the next “needed” thing, culminated by the anxiety about the possibility of losing these possessions.
• Caveat emptor – yup, buyer beware of all advertising, no matter how clever or creative it is; stop and consider if you really need that product and if it’s worth the ephemeral satisfaction it brings.

So what are the universal antidotes?

• “The family that plays together…” – strong family cohesiveness builds lasting love and feelings of well-being (divorce causes the biggest drop in personal happiness).
• “Ya gotta have friends” – research confirms that people who have at least five close friends are much more likely to describe themselves as “very happy”.
• Sector search – whether it’s your vocation or avocation, focus on the areas which bring you continued satisfaction, total engagement and joy.
• Community ties – a feeling of belonging, whether through religious affiliations, organizations, communal groups, etc. bring a sense of purpose and a framework for structuring your life.
• Can’t fool Mother Nature – there’s no playing games with your health; if it diminishes, every aspect of your life changes. Do everything possible to maintain a healthy mind, body and lifestyle.

And remember, taking action is the catalyst for change!

image credit: Mr. T in DC