Consumerism is the belief that material objects will bring you happiness. That through purchasing and getting deals, that you will find existential and relational bliss. But as the January Blues tells us, this is simply not true.

 The Christmas shopping season is notoriously aggressive in its marketing and sales techniques from wrapping perfectly wrapped bows on cars in snowy settings to diamond rings to new clothes that fit perfectly. But these realities could not be further from the truth.

 Items, gifts, and purchasing can bring a sense of happiness, but they won't generate anything new for your mental health or relationships. Instead, it will exaggerate what was already there. So if you have hopes that a new car would solve or ease problems in your intimate relationship, think again. Though this hope may not necessarily be what drives your spending behaviors, the hope for whole, healthy and meaningful relationships and sound mental health is. Marketing is geared to suggest that you will become happy if you spend this holiday season, this simply is not true.

 Instead of falling into the trap of buying, spending, using and discarding try giving yourself what you actually need. This could be rest, this could be grace. This could be relaxation. This could be a conversation over good coffee.

Take the next step to meet the need that consumerism is hitting on. Items will not bring you health, wholeness or rest, but people and space to refresh and relax can.

 ©Grayson Wallen 2021. All Rights Reserved. Terms & Conditions Apply.

Disclaimer: Grayson’s credentials are noted in the footer below. This blog post is not intended to replace therapy or counseling services. While this post may represent psychoeducational content that brings clarity or helps you personally, Grayson encourages you to process your findings and concerns with your mental health counselor and/or other trusted people in your life. If you have questions, comments, or concerns about the content of this post, or want to start counseling please contact Grayson directly.

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