Celebrating What You Have

Part of the great American dream is to always strive for more—more money, success, personal possessions, happiness. While I appreciate this dream in some ways (ambition and motivation can certainly be assets!), there is also something to be said for being appreciative and grateful for what you already have.

While it’s natural to desire more in life, taking a moment to celebrate and be thankful for what you have can bring immense joy and fulfillment. In July, as Americans commemorate our nation’s birth with lively festivities, it serves as a reminder to appreciate the freedoms and blessings already present in our lives. Gratitude not only fosters a positive mindset but also helps cultivate contentment and a sense of abundance, enhancing overall well-being and happiness.

In her book, The Soul of Money, Lynne Twist says, “When you let go of trying to get more of what you don’t really need, it frees up oceans of energy to make a difference with what you have.” In other words, when we shift our focus from constantly wanting more to appreciating and utilizing what we already possess, our perspective changes, and we begin to recognize the abundance surrounding us. This shift in mindset allows us to redirect our energy toward making a positive impact with the resources we currently have. By acknowledging and celebrating what we have, we not only cultivate gratitude and contentment but also create opportunities to make a meaningful difference in our lives and the lives of others.

Practically speaking, celebrating what we have can translate into prudent financial practices such as:

• Learning to love your home (and making renovations or additions instead of moving)
• Rejecting trends and fast fashion
• Repairing clothing or other objects, instead of discarding them
• Embracing minimalism and occasionally decluttering your possessions
• Practicing mindful consumption and avoiding impulse buying
• Cultivating a mindset of abundance and gratitude
• Setting financial goals aligned with your personal values and long-term aspirations

By celebrating what we have and practicing mindful consumption, we can lead more fulfilling and purposeful lives, making a positive impact on ourselves and the world around us.

This month, I challenge you to take a few moments to contemplate what you have—both the tangible (a house, a car) and intangible (support from friends and family, a stable job). When you acknowledge and appreciate what you possess, you’ll realize the abundance and richness already present in your life. This awareness can inspire you to live more intentionally, focusing on what truly matters and aligning your actions with your values.

By shifting your mindset towards gratitude and contentment, you can create a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle while positively impacting those around you. Embrace the beauty of what you have and let it guide you towards a more meaningful and purposeful existence.