"多くを求める者が貧しいのであって、少ししか持っていない者が貧しいのではない"

This idea suggests that true poverty isn’t about lacking material possessions; it’s about an insatiable desire for more. Even if someone has plenty, if they’re always chasing after more, they’ll never feel content. They’re essentially trapped in a mindset of scarcity, always feeling like they don’t have enough.

Let’s think about the context of this notion. It’s an old idea, echoed through the ages by philosophers, religious leaders, and wise folks in general. The ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, for example, believed that the key to happiness was not in amassing wealth, but in limiting desires. That way, you could find joy in simple pleasures and be content with what you have. Our modern world, bombarding us with advertisements and social media, constantly nudges us towards wanting more, convincing us that happiness is always just one purchase away.

Here's a real-life example: Imagine a successful entrepreneur who’s already made millions. He’s got the luxury car, the huge house, the exotic vacations. But he’s constantly comparing himself to others who have more. He sees someone with a bigger yacht or a newer jet, and suddenly, his own achievements seem inadequate. This constant comparison and craving for more make him feel poor, despite his wealth. On the flip side, think about someone who lives modestly—a teacher, say, who finds joy in her work, her students, and her small garden. She may not have a lot by societal standards, but she feels rich because she’s content with what she has.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by practicing gratitude. Make it a habit to regularly reflect on what you have and appreciate it. Focus on your relationships, experiences, and small daily pleasures. Limit your exposure to things that fuel needless desire—like social media influencers showcasing their latest buys. Instead, spend time on activities that bring you genuine joy and fulfillment, like hobbies or time with loved ones.

Imagine this scenario: You’re at a coffee shop with a friend. Your friend is scrolling through Instagram, sighing over someone’s latest vacation photos from some tropical paradise. “I wish I could afford to travel like that,” they say. You remind them of the camping trip you both took last summer, where you spent nights by the bonfire, laughing and telling stories. It was simple but perfect. “Remember that time?” you ask. “We didn’t need a five-star resort to have a great time.” By focusing on that memory, you’re steering the conversation towards gratitude and contentment—away from the endless loop of wanting more.

In the end, it’s all about mindset. Recognizing that enough is, well, enough, can free you from the constant craving that leads to feeling poor. Instead, you’ll start seeing the richness in the life you already have. It’s not always easy—society loves to push that “more is better” narrative. But by consciously shifting your focus, you can cultivate a sense of true wealth, one rooted in contentment and gratitude.