Consumerism is the beating heart of modern society. Millions of people spend more than they earn on a daily basis. About 99 percent of the stuff Americans buy is trashed within six months of purchase. Every day, people living in North America throw out 200,000 tons of edible food. Statistics also indicate that U.S. customers use more than 25 percent of the world’s energy. The addiction to buying things is a vicious cycle that leads to debt, frustration, and greed.
What’s behind American Consumerism?
An overwhelming number of studies show that Americans are enslaved by consumerism. For most people, buying things is just a way to escape the pain of an empty life. Some do it out of boredom or curiosity. Others want to show off their assets and prove they can afford an opulent lifestyle. There are also people who buy stuff to get rid of stress, anxiety, depression, or anger.
The average U.S. household’s debt is $117, 951. In 2010, the total amount of customer debt is $2.4 trillion. According to Mad Magazine, the only reason American families don’t own an elephant or other exotic pets is that they’ve never been offered one for easy weekly payments. One in three Americans has more than 10 credit cards. About 4.5 percent of them don’t pay their credit card debt on time. These numbers tell a dramatic story: consumerism has taken over our lives.
Breaking Free From Consumerist Chains
Escaping the iron cage of consumerism isn’t easy, but it can be done. The key is to set new priorities and determine what really matters to you. Are you controlled by greed? Do you really need all this stuff to be happy?
Make peace with yourself. Find ways to fill your day other than buying things. Before buying new stuff, consider whether it’s just a desire or a true need. Break the urge to compete with your friends or colleagues. Learn to appreciate what you already have and think about those who would do anything to be in your shoes.
