Happiness: Less is More

Unpacking Wisdom of Socrates

I love this statement, Socrates: "The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less." It promotes a life of minimalism and limitation. However, more contemplation exposes a fundamental reality. This ancient wisdom proposes a route to happiness that contradicts the current narrative of a never-ending desire for more. 

Happiness in the simple things

Redefining Abundance: The Joy of Minimalism

Contrary to common assumption, happiness does not correspond to having more belongings, experiences, or successes; real fulfilment may lie in the other direction. The minimalist movement, which reflects Socrates' philosophy, tells us that eliminating the unnecessary makes room for what is truly important. This could mean physical and mental as well. This type of deliberate living provides clarity, reduces stress, and allows us to enjoy the riches that we currently have. Minimalism is not about deprivation but about discovering richness in fewer, more meaningful objects and experiences.

Freedom of Detachment

One of the most common misunderstandings about pleasure is that it is linked to financial items or certain life events. Socrates is saying that we need to cut the needs and links with such dependents. By learning to appreciate less, we break free from the never-ending cycle of want and disappointment. Do not think for a moment I am saying, abandon your aspirations, I am saying, discover calm and fulfilment not dependent on external circumstances. It's about developing inner strength and unwavering joy in life's ups and downs.

Depth of Simplicity

In today's complicated world, simplicity has an inherent draw. When we choose to enjoy less, we are not choosing a monotonous existence but rather one in which simplicity allows for depth. Relationships, interests, and even simple pleasures like a walk in the park take on new dimensions. That statement: stop and smell the roses! That's what it means. Clearing the clutter, both literally and psychologically, allows us to connect more profoundly with our environment and ourselves. This depth enhances our lives in ways that superficial pleasures rarely do.

Gratitude is enjoying less

Gratitude is essential to enjoying less. Focusing on what we have rather than what we lack causes a shift in perspective. Gratitude transforms what we have into enough and more. It alters our perspective from scarcity to plenty, from deprivation to appreciation. In this mood, even the simplest pleasures can provide tremendous enjoyment. This type of thankfulness does not dismiss life's obstacles but seeks the silver lining, acknowledging that the finest aspects of our lives are frequently the simple, unassuming moments.

Cultivating Mindfulness: Being Present Now

Another part of enjoying less is the practice of mindfulness, or being completely present in the moment. When we continuously strive for more, we effectively live in the future, pursuing bliss that is always just out of grasp. In contrast, enjoying less enables us to be present and joyful in the present moment, whether it's savouring a meal, engaging in a discussion, or just soaking in our surroundings. This practice cultivates a profound sense of contentment that is not dependent on outward accomplishments or things.

Sustainable Living: A Bigger Picture

On a more significant level, the concept of enjoying less relates to the idea of sustainable living. In an age of environmental problems, we are decreasing our consumption and focusing on what is essential, which benefits our satisfaction and the health of our planet. By embracing a lifestyle prioritising quality over quantity, we may work towards a more sustainable future and discover enjoyment in harmony with the environment.

Happiness: Perspective on Life

To put Socrates in greater perspective, years ago, I was talking with an old man at Broome Airport (Northern Australia) about his life, and he made this joke about when he was young that I will never forget, 'I had something as a child that money couldn't buy: poverty.' We laughed, as it was something we both related to, but he highlighted in that one statement and subsequent conversation that although he was poor, he was happy as a child. His mind was constantly pushed to create something from nothing as a kid. It also offered a shift in focus from things to relationships with people. He was a great communicator, and in that one conversation, although he was wealthy now, it was clear to him that experiences and people matter over the car or the house he had. 

Final Thoughts: Less is More

Socrates' wisdom offers a surprising yet liberating view of happiness. In the quest for less, we do not restrict our pleasure; rather, we expand it in deeper, more lasting, and rewarding ways. This path to appreciation is not about limiting ourselves but about finding the limitless possibility of a simpler, more mindful lifestyle. It's about recognising that sometimes the key to getting it all is realising you already have everything.

When we embrace this attitude, we discover that pleasure is a journey rather than a destination. It's a road we may take every day, finding joy and fulfilment in the simplicity and genuineness of our interactions. The answer to happiness is not in how much we may acquire but in the beauty and richness of what we choose to appreciate.