The age-old saying “Keeping up with the Joneses” still has significant relevance in current times, arguably more so than before. If you’re not familiar, the phrase means someone striving to match their peers’ societal status using their exterior appearance, seeming equally prosperous. Social media, advertisements, and celebrities continually present luxurious lifestyles, making today’s culture feel the need to maintain this façade with not just neighboring acquaintances, but a worldwide audience.
Our society has successfully ingrained the idea of living grandly, regardless of the repercussions. Regrettably, “Keeping up with the Joneses” often leads down a hazardous path. Here are some reasons why you should reconsider chasing this illusion.
1. OVERSPENDING IS A RISK:
It’s easy to feel left out when you observe the wealthy proudly displaying their luxuries via social media or television. It might somehow seem like everyone else can afford such high-end lifestyles. In actuality, very few people can truly afford designer apparel, precious gems, or private jets – probably less than 1%. So if you’re attempting to match wealthier strata, over-expenditure is almost certain. For many, the desire to “keep up” results in spending beyond their means, incurring credit card debts. Don’t let your aspirations lead you further into debt, destabilizing your financial goals. If you can’t afford something now, purchasing it later will likely remain unfeasible, especially with mounting bills.
2. POTENTIAL FOR ACCUMULATING LOANS:
In your quest for societal positioning, there’s a high chance of accumulating debts. The vicious cycle of maintaining exterior wealth can be hard to break. This process might even lead you to take loans for unaffordable property or vehicles. Like debt, loan repayments can become burdensome, particularly with multiples, signaling a financially precarious position.
3. SAVINGS MIGHT DISSIPATE:
Running after grandeur could sabotage your savings. You might be tempted to withdraw from your savings account to aid your extravagant lifestyle. The allure of keeping up appearances can be addictive, leading you to justify unreasonable purchases. Unfortunately, continuous spending leaves little for savings, retirement, or emergency funds. Life’s unpredictability necessitates readiness for any situation, including retaining sufficient savings. Adequate funds can make all the difference during a crisis, without necessitating more debt.
4. LITTLE OR NO INCREASE IN HAPPINESS:
Although this doesn’t directly affect your finances, it could impact your health. As you strive for material possessions, you’ll never feel accomplished or content. The need for more never ends. Materialistic joy is fleeting – the momentary happiness it brings will not make you truly content. In indulging in this lifestyle, you are bound to work harder, potentially leading to burnout. Amid financial struggles and mounting debt, you may encounter huge stress levels, possibly leading to mental distress.
5. PERSPECTIVE IS KEY:
This is crucial: no matter how glamorous someone’s exterior life appears, you cannot discern their actual circumstances. The notion of them having more or not enduring similar struggles is presumptuous and deceptive.
Don’t let your actions be guided by the perception of others or societal norms. The consequences may leave you discontented and potentially in debt. Do you perceive pressure to maintain a certain societal standard? How can we resist yielding to such pressures?
