"It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness."

Happiness isn’t about the quantity of stuff we’ve got. It’s about truly appreciating and enjoying what we do have. You know that feeling when you’re with family or friends, laughing over something silly? Or when you take a moment to watch a beautiful sunset? Those moments are where real happiness lives. It’s not about having the latest gadget or the biggest house.

This idea has roots all over, but let’s think back to ancient philosophers. They didn't have all the modern-day distractions we do, yet they seemed to get it. Take Epicurus, for example. He was all about seeking simple pleasures and ditching the idea that wealth or luxury equals happiness. Epicurus believed that happiness was found in friendship, freedom, and thought—things that don’t cost a penny.

Now, let’s bring this to life with a real example. Imagine Jane, a high-powered executive with a fat paycheck. She’s got the car, the house, the designer clothes. But she’s stressed, barely sleeps, and never has time for herself. Compare her to Tom, a middle school teacher. Tom doesn’t earn much, but he takes his dog for a walk every day, cooks a nice meal, and reads a good book before bed. He’s content and enjoys the simple pleasures of his routine. Who do you think is happier? Most likely, it’s Tom. He doesn’t need a lot to feel joy.

So how do you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start small. If you’re caught up in the race to get more, hit pause. Take stock of what you already have that brings you joy. Is it your morning coffee ritual? The way your pet greets you when you get home? Make space for those moments. Prioritize experiences over possessions. Take a walk, call a friend, or just sit in your garden and breathe.

Here’s a little story to illustrate. Think about Sarah, who decided to declutter her life. She had closets full of clothes, gadgets she never used, and felt overwhelmed. One weekend, she started clearing out, keeping only what she truly used and loved. It was hard at first—kind of like parting with memories. But as her space became clearer, she found herself feeling lighter. She had time to enjoy a hobby she’d forgotten about, and her evenings became more relaxed. She didn’t have to worry about the mess anymore, and it turned out, she didn’t miss the stuff.

In the end, it’s about shifting your focus. Instead of asking, “What can I get next?” try thinking, “What do I already have that I love?” It’s a simple mindset change but it can make a world of difference. We’re in a society that constantly pushes us to want more. But the secret sauce to happiness might just be hidden in enjoying what’s right in front of us. So, next time you feel that itch for something new, take a moment. Breathe. Look around. You might find that happiness is already with you, just waiting to be noticed.