Have you ever read something that causes you to rethink all of your life decisions?
“The world isn’t driven by greed; it’s driven by envy.”
— Quote attributed to investor Charlie Munger, as quoted in Same as Ever: A guide to what never changes by Morgan Housel
In other words, it’s not that everyone wants more. It’s that everyone wants to feel they are doing better than others. (Or at least not worse than others!).
The more I considered this, the more profound it felt.
Suddenly, I noticed all the things I did because I felt I was supposed to. I felt I “should” keep up with the Joneses — drive a fancy car, vacation in exotic locations, get good grades, buy the right brand of oat milk, or whatever.
But once I recognized those “shoulds,” they quickly faded away.
Once I stopped comparing myself to others, I felt a massive sense of relief!
I was left with: What do I want? What do I value, for me and my family?
Then all I have to worry about is how to live in a way that’s consistent with my values — not anyone else’s.
As we head into summer, I hope that you can give yourself permission to not compare yourself to others. I suspect you’ll feel more grateful for what you already have. Start by asking yourself:
What do I want?
Sleep well,
Nora
P.S. For a provocative read, check out Same as Ever: A guide to what never changes.
