Why do we consume? Why do we buy things?
I only go to the mall to buy specific things I need and want. I’m always with my wife because I get lost in the mall. We usually argue about things we buy. For example, we wanted to buy one notebook for let’s say Php 150. But if there is a sale and you can get three notebooks for the price of Php 400, that is what she’ll buy. This is just an example that I totally disagree with. Why do we think we can save by spending more?
In every moment of our lives, we always consume. We always think about what we can buy. With the growing market and usage of e-commerce apps like Shoppee or Lazada, I bet you have always been scrolling there for new things to buy and have in your cart. I personally do not have.
Why do we consume more than we create?
I know a person that always does that, not my wife. But he always looks for things to buy. Getting ready for that next big sale. These things we buy, we consume. Consume in the general term of using it. Everything around us, we are always looking for something that we can use.
Have you ever thought of doing it differently? Instead of thinking about what to consume, how about thinking of what to create?
Every day, think of what you have created. It is not always just tangible things like cooking your food or creating a masterpiece of art. It could be as simple as creating awareness and helping people. What are you creating each day for the benefit of others? What have you done today to help someone? What have you created for someone?
Create
Consume what you need. Consume in moderation. Focus on creating to make a better world. We all need to live a life that creates more than we consume. If we think every day about what we could possibly create and actually create it, we will have a sense of fulfillment. We can start living purposefully.
The Consumption Mindset
When we think about consumption, it’s not just about physical goods. We consume information, media, experiences, and even time. The allure of sales and discounts can lead us to accumulate more than we truly need. Your example of buying three notebooks instead of one because of a sale illustrates this well. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that saving money means buying more items at a lower price, but that’s not always the case.
The Creation Mindset
Shifting our focus from consumption to creation can be transformative. Here’s why:
- Purposeful Living: When we actively create, we infuse purpose into our lives. Whether it’s writing, painting, volunteering, or simply helping someone, these acts contribute positively to the world.
- Quality Over Quantity: Instead of mindlessly accumulating possessions, we can prioritize quality over quantity. By creating something meaningful, we invest our time and energy in things that truly matter.
- Mindset Conditioning: You mentioned mindset conditioning, and it’s crucial. Cultivating a creator’s mindset involves recognizing our ability to shape our reality. We become intentional about what we put out into the world.
Practical Steps
Here are some practical steps to embrace the creation mindset:
- Reflect Daily: Take a moment each day to ask yourself: “What have I created today?” It could be a small act of kindness, a piece of writing, or even a new recipe.
- Set Creative Goals: Just as we set financial or fitness goals, set creative goals. What do you want to create this week, this month, or this year?
- Balance Consumption: Be mindful of what you consume. Ask whether it adds value or merely clutters your life. Consider Marie Kondo’s philosophy: Keep only what sparks joy.
- Share Your Creations: Whether it’s sharing a blog post, teaching a skill, or creating art, share your creations with others. It amplifies their impact.
Remember, creating doesn’t have to be grandiose. Small acts count too. By consciously creating, we contribute positively to our own well-being and the world around us.
Let’s explore each of the practical steps in more detail:
- Reflect Daily: Taking a moment to acknowledge our daily creations is powerful. It helps us appreciate the small victories and recognize the impact we make, even in seemingly insignificant ways. Whether it’s a heartfelt message to a friend or a new recipe you’ve tried, these moments matter.
- Set Creative Goals: Just like financial or fitness goals, creative goals give us direction. They encourage us to explore our interests, learn new skills, and express ourselves. Whether it’s writing a blog post, learning to play an instrument, or creating digital art, having goals keeps us motivated.
- Balance Consumption: Marie Kondo’s philosophy of keeping only what sparks joy is brilliant. It encourages intentional consumption. When we’re mindful of what we bring into our lives, we avoid clutter and focus on quality. It’s liberating to let go of things that no longer serve us.
- Share Your Creations: Sharing our creations connects us with others. It’s not about seeking validation but about contributing to a collective experience. Whether it’s sharing a poem, a piece of code, or a home-cooked meal, our creations ripple through the lives of those who encounter them.
Everyday Creativity
- Problem-Solving: When faced with challenges, we engage our creative minds. Whether it’s finding an innovative solution at work or troubleshooting a technical issue, problem-solving is a creative act.
- Empathy: Understanding others’ feelings and perspectives requires creativity. Empathy allows us to connect deeply, offer support, and build meaningful relationships.
- Acts of Kindness: Small gestures—like writing a heartfelt note, cooking a meal for a neighbor, or volunteering—emanate creativity. They brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity.
Creative Mindset
- Curiosity: Curiosity fuels creativity. Ask questions, explore new topics, and seek out diverse experiences. Curious minds are open to inspiration from unexpected sources.
- Flexibility: Creativity thrives when we embrace flexibility. Be willing to adapt, learn, and unlearn. It’s okay to change course and explore uncharted territories.
- Playfulness: Remember the joy of play? Engage in activities just for the fun of it. Whether it’s doodling, dancing, or building with LEGO bricks, play sparks creativity.
Inspiring Others
- Lead by Example: When you create, you inspire others. Share your journey—whether it’s writing a blog post, cooking a recipe, or crafting a heartfelt message. Your authenticity resonates.
- Collaborate: Creativity blooms in collaboration. Connect with fellow creators, exchange ideas, and amplify each other’s impact. Together, we create a richer tapestry of experiences.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your everyday creations. Celebrate the poem you wrote, the meal you cooked, or the smile you shared. Each moment adds to your creative legacy.
Remember, creativity isn’t a finite resource—it’s abundant and renewable. Keep nurturing your creative spirit, and may your journey be filled with fulfillment and wonder!