Our normal thought about what it means to be rich is to have big houses, expensive cars, and lo of money. However, how about we look at it in another way. If you were told to feel rich doesn’t  involve your bank account, how would you feel? This is about feeling content with what you have. Contentment happy and satisfied with your current situation, can make you feel richer than any amount of money ever could. In this blog, we’re going to talk about how contentment can lead to a life that feels full and rich, without needing more stuff or more money. 

What is Contentment?

Contentment is feeling satisfied with what you have. For example, you could be working as a low-income person with good debt and some manageable credit card debt and still being happy and contended. The feeling of contentment is deeper than happiness. It’s about being at peace with your current situation and not constantly longing for more. Happiness on the other hand can come and go with life’s ups and downs, but contentment is a more stable feeling. Contentment doesn’t mean you stop aiming for the best, but it means you appreciate the present moment and all you already have.

What is the Difference Between Contentment and Complacency?

Contentment means being happy with what you have, while still being open to growth and change. You may be earning low, be contented, and still be aiming to get a degree to improve your value and skills. Complacency, on the other hand, is when you’re too comfortable with your situation, so much so that you don’t see the need to improve or move forward. Imagine earning low and you are comfortable, without making any effort to improve your situation, that is top tier complacency. Being content doesn’t stop you from setting goals or dreaming big. 

Why is it Important to be Content?

People who are content tend to be less stressed, not envious of others, and resilient when facing challenges. This is because they have a strong foundation of satisfaction with their own life, which helps them handle challenges better. Content individuals also usually have stronger relationships, as their satisfaction with life makes them more positive, full of life, and supportive partners and friends. 

It’s Not Possible to Have Enough 

Running after wealth can lead us into a trap where the more we have, the more we want to have. The truth is, this cycle starts when we believe that happiness comes from what we have or what we can have. But once we get what we wanted, the satisfaction fades almost immediately, and we set our sights on the next big thing. This endless pursuit can make you feel like you’re running on a treadmill, working so hard, but not getting anywhere.

In the same vein, the irony of seeking more wealth is that it can lead to feeling less satisfied. If you tie your self-worth around your possessions or bank balance, you will see yourself constantly comparing yourself to others. You will be feeling inadequate and behind, no matter how much you accumulate. When you’re not contented and are always in pursuit of material wealth, it can create a void that no amount of money can fill.

Benefits of Contentment on You Finances 

Making Better Financial Decisions

Contentment can lead to smarter choices with money. When you’re happy with what you have, you’re less likely to spend on things you don’t need. This doesn’t mean you never treat yourself, but it does mean you think more about each purchase. Content people often ask themselves if they really need something or if they’re just trying to fill a void. This approach can help you save money, reduce debt, and even increase your savings over time. It’s about finding a balance between enjoying life now and preparing for the future.

Avoiding Unnecessary Expenses

Being content helps you see the difference between what you merely want and what you truly needs. For example, instead of upgrading to the latest phone every year, you might decide your current one meets your needs just fine. You can then use that money to build an emergency fund or pay down debt.

Debt and Savings

When you’re content, you’re less likely to use credit cards anyhow and reduce the risk of accumulating debt. Also, this satisfaction with what you have makes it easier to have a robust savings.

Setting Realistic Goals

While ambition is important, setting achievable goals is key for contentment. Unrealistic expectations can lead to constant disappointment. Instead, aim for goals that challenge you but are still within your power to achieve.

Conclusion 

Contentment comes from the simple things of life. A middle class man can be happier than a billionaire. This is because contentment makes you feel like the richest person, and money can’t buy that feeling.

Another important thing is you can be happier when you manage your debt within stress. Your satisfaction can boost the more when your debt is reduced by up to 80%, and interest stops immediately. You can speak with one of our debt experts at EmpireOne Credit to know how we can assist you in getting rid of overwhelming debt. Call us at (416) 900-2324 to schedule a free consultation with us. Being debt-free feels good!