Simple Living and High Thinking: Navigating the Standards of Modern Life

Standards of living are often shaped by the societal strata into which we fall, dictated by the friends we keep, social media influence, and consumer culture. We unconsciously join the 'club' of consumerism, driven by the desire to match our peers and maintain a certain status in society. Sociologists and their research categorize individuals based on factors such as economic background, education, profession, hobbies, and interests. Classes are further subdivided into Upper, Middle, and Lower to simplify their research and data collection.

Efforts to Fit the Societal Norms

When applying for an Australian visa years ago, one of the questions asked, 'Do you own your home? Do you possess books?' The affirmative answers to these questions resulted in higher points and, surprisingly, a gratis visa. Such factors as book ownership were not only considered in visa applications but also influenced the perception of social status.

Consumerism and Societal Pressures

The media and society often dictate lifestyles, such as pursuing thinness, undergoing cosmetic treatments, owning luxury vehicles, real estate, and pricey travel packages. This consumerist mindset creates a sense of belonging and acknowledgment, leading us to feel part of the ‘upper class’ and ‘haves’. However, adhering to these societal standards can lead to misguided priorities and even financial hardship, as exemplified in the classic short story, The Necklace, by Guy de Maupassant.

The Unintended Consequences of Conformity

In The Necklace

The story follows a middle-class couple whose wife aspires to be like her affluent friends. She borrows a pearl necklace from a rich friend to wear at a ball. During the event, she loses the necklace, leading to years of hardship and sacrifice to replace it. Only to discover that the necklace was fake, and her pursuit led to unnecessary suffering.

When to Say 'Enough'

The story highlights the futility of chasing after societal benchmarks without self-awareness. It is crucial to recognize when to stop 'keeping up with the Joneses,' which can prevent us from becoming 'uwat.' These whimsical social benchmarks, whether about thinness, luxury possessions, or social status, can lead to increased stress, financial strain, and complicated lives.

A Call for Inner Truth and Self-Acceptance

William Shakespeare's advice, "This above all—to thine own self be true, and it must follow as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man," should guide us in avoiding the pitfalls of conforming to others' standards. We must introspect and question the purpose of our actions and the reasons behind them. Let us stand firm and be true to ourselves, resisting the pressures of social media and our peer groups.

Conclusion

We should aim for a balanced life that allows us to prioritize our well-being, personal growth, and true happiness over fleeting societal benchmarks. By focusing on simple living and high thinking, we can achieve a more authentic and fulfilling life, free from the shackles of external validation.

Keywords: simple living, high thinking, societal standards