In the relentless pursuit of wealth and success, it’s all too easy to lose sight of what truly matters.
Happiness and contentment cannot be bought or measured by the size of your house, your salary, or the car you drive. Yet, our society often equates material wealth with joy, success, and fulfillment.
However, there are those who have discovered a deeper, more authentic joy that transcends material possessions. This joy is not contingent on external circumstances but springs from within – a well of contentment that is not easily depleted.
In this article, we will explore the nine habits consistently displayed by such people – those who find their joy beyond material things.
These habits serve as a guide for anyone seeking personal growth and a more meaningful existence. They challenge the traditional narrative of success and invite us to redefine what truly matters in our lives.
1) They practice gratitude
“Do not think of what are absent as though they were not existing, but ponder on the most fortunate of what you have got, and on account of them remind yourself how they would have been missed, if they had not been here.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
When was the last time you stopped and truly appreciated what you have in life?
Not your new phone or the latest tech gadget, but the people, experiences and simple pleasures that make life worthwhile. People who find joy beyond material things have mastered the art of gratitude. They understand that happiness doesn’t lie in accumulating more but in appreciating what they already have.
Rather than craving for the next big thing, they find contentment in the present moment. They appreciate the beauty of a sunrise, the laughter of a friend, or a good book.
This habit of deliberate gratitude helps them to stay grounded and find joy in the simplest things. It’s a powerful reminder that true happiness isn’t about having what you want, but wanting what you have.
So ask yourself – what are you truly grateful for today?
2) They prioritize experiences over possessions
Remember that time when you went hiking with your buddies and got caught in a downpour? Or that unforgettable road trip where the car broke down, but you still managed to have a blast?
These experiences and the memories of them, even with their challenges, probably bring you more joy than the new phone or watch you recently bought.
People who experience true contentment understand this inherently.
They invest their time, energy, and resources in creating memorable experiences rather than accumulating possessions. They know that the thrill of buying something new fades quickly, but the memories made from an adventure or shared experience can last a lifetime.
3) They cultivate deep relationships
Studies have shown time and time again that people make us happy. Yes, people.
In fact, the longest study ever on happiness found just this. Our relationships are the best predictor of our happiness in older age.
Those who find happiness beyond material things understand the immense value of authentic relationships. They invest their time and energy in nurturing bonds with family, friends, and even strangers.
They comprehend that human connection goes beyond superficial conversations and social media likes. It’s about empathy, understanding, and mutual respect. These individuals strive for deep, meaningful relationships that enrich their lives and the lives of those around them.
In an era where ‘networking’ often replaces genuine friendships, they choose to focus on quality over quantity. They understand that a few close relationships are more fulfilling than a thousand acquaintances. Their joy lies not in the number of their followers but in the depth and quality of their connections.
So, take a moment to reflect on your relationships. Are they as deep and meaningful as you’d like them to be? Who are the people who truly enrich your life?
4) They find joy in giving
“He that does good to another man does good also to himself” – Seneca (Seneca’s Morals, 1882)
Picture this: It’s your birthday, and you’ve received a bunch of presents. But the joy you feel is nothing compared to the satisfaction you get when you give someone a gift and their face lights up with genuine surprise and happiness. Sound familiar?
Folks who are genuinely content understand this principle deeply. They know that giving, whether it’s their time, resources, or a listening ear, can be far more rewarding than receiving. They derive satisfaction from making a difference in someone else’s life – even if it’s as simple as making them smile.
This isn’t about grand gestures or philanthropy; it’s about everyday acts of kindness and generosity. These individuals realize that the act of giving not only enhances the lives of others but also fosters their own sense of purpose and fulfillment.
5) They value personal growth
Did you know that a study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found a significant relationship between personal growth and happiness? It turns out that the journey of becoming the best version of ourselves is closely tied to our overall contentment.
People who find joy beyond material things understand this. They value personal growth and self-improvement. They are open-minded, curious, and always eager to learn. Instead of seeking validation from external sources like wealth or status, they look inward. They strive to understand themselves better, to evolve, and to overcome their weaknesses.
They set personal goals, not with the intention of impressing others, but for their own satisfaction. Whether it’s learning a new skill, overcoming a fear, or working on their emotional intelligence, they recognise that their personal journey of growth is a never-ending source of joy and fulfillment.
What personal growth goal have you set for yourself recently? What steps can you take towards achieving it? Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is a step towards a happier and more fulfilled you.
6) They practice mindfulness
Years ago, I found myself rushing through life, always planning for the next big thing. It was like I was watching a movie of my life rather than actually living it. Then, I discovered mindfulness, and it changed everything.
By practicing mindfulness, we can fully engage with our surroundings and our inner thoughts and feelings. We become more aware of life’s small pleasures – the warmth of the sun on our skin, the taste of our morning coffee, the sound of our loved one’s laughter.
This heightened awareness not only deepens our appreciation for life but also helps us navigate stress and challenges more effectively. By staying present, we can tackle issues head-on rather than getting lost in anxiety or fear.
7) They maintain a positive outlook
While it’s impossible to control everything that happens to us, we can control how we respond. People whose happiness isn’t dependent on things understand this well. They maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity.
They view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. They focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. They choose to see the glass as half full, not because they’re naive, but because they understand that positivity breeds happiness.
This doesn’t mean they ignore their emotions or suppress negative feelings. Instead, they acknowledge their feelings, accept them, and then choose to focus on the positive aspects of their life. This habit of positivity helps them bounce back from setbacks and keeps them motivated to pursue their goals.
So, how do you view your glass – half empty or half full? How can you cultivate a more positive outlook in your life?
Positivity is a choice, and it’s one that can make a significant difference in your happiness.
8) They take care of their health
Health is a priceless asset that often gets overshadowed by the pursuit of material wealth. But those who find joy beyond material things know better. They understand that good health is the foundation of a good life, and they make it a priority to take care of themselves, both physically and mentally.
They engage in regular physical activity, not just to look good, but to feel good. They understand that exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, and it’s a great way to manage stress. They eat well, not out of vanity, but because they understand the connection between nutrition and overall well-being.
Just as they wouldn’t neglect their car’s maintenance, they don’t neglect their body’s needs. They also prioritize mental health, practicing self-care routines and seeking help when needed.
9) They live authentically
This is a big one.
In a world that’s constantly trying to mold us into something else, staying true to oneself can be a challenge. But those who find joy beyond material things have mastered the art of living authentically. They don’t bend their desires or change their values to fit societal norms or expectations.
Instead, they embrace who they are, with all their strengths and weaknesses. They express themselves honestly and openly, without fear of judgment or rejection. They make decisions that align with their values and passions, even if those decisions go against the grain.
Living authentically gives them freedom – the freedom to be themselves, to pursue what truly matters to them, and to live life on their own terms. This authenticity brings a deep sense of fulfillment and joy that material possessions can’t compete with.
The bottom line
Finding joy beyond material things isn’t about rejecting wealth or comfort. It’s about understanding that the true essence of happiness lies in the intangible – in deep relationships, in personal growth, in giving, and in living authentically.
It’s a journey of going beyond external appearances and redefining our priorities.
Remember, everyone’s journey will be different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. Start with small steps and gradually incorporate these habits into your life.
We’d love to hear from you. What does finding joy beyond material things mean to you? Do you have habits that help you find this joy?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. Your insights might be the inspiration someone else needs on their journey to finding true joy.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
