Combating Consumerism

Source: GIFER

The article published in Becomingminimalist.com by Joshua Becker, a writer who changed over to and advocates for a minimalist lifestyle, titled “9 Intentional Ways to Challenge Consumerism in Your Life” demonstrates the economic principle "Institutions are the 'rules of the game' that influence choices” because it shows how one can combat the consumerist culture within America, rather than following what big corporations want the nation to do.

First, the article discusses many ways in which one can lead a life outside of consumerism. One tip is to stop looking to live like other people. Too often, when looking at the lives of other people on social media, advertisements, and television, people begin to follow what they see. Although, this is only giving in to the desires of the corporate world. Says the article, “Your life is too unique to live like everyone else. And if you think you’ll be happier by following all the latest trends in society, you are wrong.” Once you truly begin to find your own sense of exigence in the world, happiness will come. Spending time following others only leads to unnecessary purchases - like expensive clothes, accessories, and so on - whereas buying what you truly want will lead to less consumerism overall, because you won’t constantly be tempted for more. So, this allows you to combat consumerism, and therefore the Institutions that create the “rules” in which people generally follow.

Second, the article discusses how giving things away is a good way to escape a consumerist mindset. It claims, “Your life will feel lighter. Your heart will feel warmer.” The article gets into how giving things away creates a better feeling inside than purchasing things again and again. This isn’t hard to believe, because constantly buying things only leads to more emptiness inside. So, over time, giving more things away than buying things leads to a more minimalist lifestyle, therefore, again, going against the grain, and also making one more happy than when they were stuck in a consumerist loop. In all, going against the Institutions in this aspect will lead to much more happiness than not.

The last piece of advice that the article gives is to do more of what makes you happy than purchasing things. This is easier said than done, but it leads to a much more fulfilling life than consumerism can bring. Claims the article, “Do more of what makes you happy. Your possessions are not making you happy. Once our basic needs have been met, the happiness found in consumerism is fleeting at best.” People respond to institutions by doing what they want, typically. When an ad says to buy something, people generally feel as if they should obey, whether they actually follow through or not. The article says to ignore these institutions and live life in actual memories, than in purchases. Going on vacation, visiting a friend, and just generally doing something always leads to a much more accomplished and happy life.

In all, combating consumerism is a difficult feat. Going against the culture of our nation will need a ton of motivation and persistence. Although, actually living in the moment rather than finding happiness in purchases will lead to a much better life in the end. In my next blog post I will research: synthesis on the topic overall.