"Wanting what you don't have is wasting what you do have"

Many many moons ago - this very sentiment was on the back of a Salada tea bag I was given at a small cafe before the current plethora of teas were available.  A lesson well said and I offer to many a client.

The idea that always wanting what you don't have can lead to a disregard or underappreciation of what you do have is a valuable lesson in mindfulness and gratitude. This concept underscores the importance of appreciating and making the most of your current circumstances and possessions rather than constantly longing for more.

Here are a few key points to consider:

Gratitude: Cultivating a sense of gratitude for the things you already possess or the situations you find yourself in can lead to greater contentment and happiness. When you acknowledge and appreciate what you have, you can experience a greater sense of fulfillment.

Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and appreciating the here and now. Constantly wanting more or different things can distract you from fully experiencing and enjoying your current reality.

Balance: It's not necessarily wrong to desire personal growth, improvement, or new experiences. Ambition and striving for better are important for personal development. However, it's crucial to strike a balance between ambition and contentment. Recognizing that you can have goals and aspirations while also appreciating your current situation is key.

Reducing Stress: The constant pursuit of more can lead to stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction. Embracing the idea that you have enough and are enough as you are can alleviate some of this stress.

Perspective: Sometimes, what you desire may not necessarily bring you happiness or fulfillment. By appreciating what you have, you might realize that you already possess what you need for a meaningful and satisfying life.

In summary, while it's natural to have desires and goals, it's important to find a balance between pursuing what you don't have and appreciating what you do have. Developing a sense of gratitude and mindfulness can help you avoid the trap of constantly wanting more and allow you to find contentment in the present moment.  Steven Stills had the right idea - "Love the one your with".  Always living in a state of "want" perpetuates that very state to become your future.  Be present and grateful in every moment and the future will be filled with more opportunities to be grateful.  

Photo by Xuân Thống Trần