Happy Thanksgiving everyone! In my last post I talked about the importance of gratitude. This week, I’m going to twist that theme a bit and talk about an old saying, “Keeping up with the Joneses.”

There’s no quicker way to derail your gratitude than a bit of “neighbor envy.” As you look around (either in the “real world” or on social media), you might notice that other families live in bigger homes, take more vacations, or eat in more expensive restaurants. When you pick your child up at school, you might see other mothers and fathers with designer jackets or sleek new vehicles. It’s easy to feel inferior, especially when so many people on social media are constantly talking about their latest adventure or last night’s gourmet meal.

How can you help but feel envious?

How can you cut through all the feelings of inadequacy and start shifting your focus to the bigger picture?

It’s not necessarily easy, but it can be done! Start with gratitude. As I mentioned in my last post, take time every day to be thankful for what you have. Remember to appreciate the things you normally take for granted: the roof over your head, love from your family and friends, a steady job, food on the table. Be thankful for a warm cup of coffee or a car that works.

Appreciating what you have is one step toward defeating the Joneses mentality, but don’t stop there! Continue your crusade against empty materialism by starting a conversation. Talk to your family. Ask your children about the meaningful parts of their lives. If they point to clothing or toys as being meaningful, ask them how long those things will last. Then, remind them of the things that truly matter in life.

Lead by example. Take your children on volunteer experiences. Demonstrate how lucky you all are…even if you don’t have a pool in your backyard!

Remember, your children or significant other can also be a support for you when you feel like giving in to the Joneses mentality. Even though it may be uncomfortable at first, start having regular conversations about finances with your significant other and set smart savings goals that help you save with a purpose, not just in the pursuit of more “stuff.” With these goals in mind, it will be easier to resist empty spending. If you’re focused on saving with a purpose, it will also be easier to nudge your family members (or to have them nudge you!) to ignore the Joneses and avoid unnecessary purchases.

I know it’s easy to get into “spending mode” around the holidays. In my next post, I plan on talking about meaningful gifts your family members can give one another. Think of it as your “holiday gift guide with a purpose.” Stay tuned!

27 thoughts on “Oh, those Joneses!

  1. I just want to say I am beginner to weblog and honestly enjoyed this web blog. Very likely I’m planning to bookmark your blog post . You absolutely come with impressive stories. Thanks for revealing your website page.

  2. Faytech North America is a touch screen Manufacturer of both monitors and pcs. They specialize in the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of Capacitive touch screen, Resistive touch screen, Industrial touch screen, IP65 touch screen, touchscreen monitors and integrated touchscreen PCs. Contact them at http://www.faytech.us, 121 Varick Street,3rd Floor,New York, NY 10013,+1 646 205 3214

  3. Thank you for some other sort of great post on BLOGURL. Where else may solely anybody get that kind of information usual perfect manner of posting? I have a presentation in a month’s time, and I am over the search for such tips. NAME

  4. This design is steller! You certainly know how to keep a reader entertained. Between your wit and your videos, I was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost…HaHa!) Excellent job. I really loved what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it. Too cool!

  5. I just need to notify you that I am new to posting and incredibly valued your page. Most likely I am prone to store your blog post . You literally have memorable article information. Truly Appreciate it for sharing with us your current domain post

  6. Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with a few pics to drive the message home a little bit, but instead of that, this is fantastic blog. A great read. I’ll certainly be back.

Leave a Reply