Everyone loves a bit of luxury every now and then — a new pair of trainers, the latest tech, or even just a fancy coffee can put a pep in our step.
But when does this love of nice things cross the line into materialism? While there’s no clear-cut answer, here are some things you might find yourself saying if you’re more focused on material possessions than experiences and connections. If too many seem familiar, you might be looking for fulfilment in the wrong places.
1. “I’m not happy unless I have the latest…”
Whether it’s the latest iPhone, the newest fashion trend, or the top-of-the-line car, constantly chasing the “newest” thing can be a sign of materialism. The feeling of needing to keep up with the Joneses can lead to a never-ending cycle of wanting more, even if it doesn’t bring lasting happiness.
2. “I deserve this.”
Source: Unsplash While treating yourself is important, using the phrase “I deserve this” as justification for every purchase can be a red flag. It might suggest you’re using material possessions to fill an emotional void or to reward yourself for things that don’t necessarily warrant a splurge.
3. “I would be so much happier if I could just afford…”
Source: Unsplash Constantly pinning your happiness on acquiring something you can’t currently afford is a clear sign of materialism. True happiness often comes from experiences, relationships, and personal growth, not just the things we own.
4. “I feel like a nobody without…”
Source: Unsplash Do you feel like your self-worth is tied to your possessions? If you think you’re only as good as the car you drive, the clothes you wear, or the house you live in, it might be time to re-evaluate your priorities.
5. “I need to have more than my friends/family.”
Trying to outdo people with your possessions can be a slippery slope. It can lead to unhealthy competition, strained relationships, and a never-ending pursuit of material wealth that doesn’t necessarily bring fulfilment.
6. “This brand is so me!”
Source: Unsplash While it’s natural to have preferences, defining yourself solely by the brands you wear or the products you use can be a sign of materialism. Your identity is so much more than the labels you attach to yourself.
7. “I wouldn’t be caught dead using/wearing…”
Looking down on people for not having the same expensive taste as you is a classic materialistic trait. It’s important to remember that everyone has different priorities and budgets, and what matters to you might not matter to someone else.
8. “This is an investment piece.”
While some purchases can appreciate in value, using the term “investment piece” to justify every splurge can be a sign of materialism. It’s important to be honest with yourself about whether you’re truly buying something for its potential future value, or simply because you want it.
9. “I worked hard, so I deserve to spend it all.”
Source: Unsplash While it’s great to reward yourself for your hard work, spending every penny you earn on material goods can be a sign of materialism. It’s important to find a balance between enjoying the fruits of your labour and saving for the future, or investing in experiences that bring lasting joy.
10. “I can’t wait to show this off on social media.”
If your primary motivation for buying something is to impress people on social media, it might be a sign of materialism. Remember, social media often portrays an idealised version of reality, and comparing your life to influencers’ is going to make you desperately unhappy and always looking for more.
11. “This will make me so popular.”
Buying things with the sole purpose of gaining popularity can be a hollow pursuit. True friendships and connections are built on shared interests, mutual respect, and genuine care, not the things you own.
12. “I’m only happy when I’m shopping.”
If shopping is your primary source of happiness, it might be time to explore other activities that bring you joy. Hobbies, spending time with loved ones, volunteering, or pursuing personal goals can provide a deeper sense of fulfilment than retail therapy.
13. “I feel empty without…”
If you feel an emotional void that can only be filled by material possessions, it might be helpful to explore the root of that emptiness. Talking to a therapist or counsellor can help you identify the underlying issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
14. “I can’t believe they’re wearing that.”
Source: Unsplash Judging people based on their clothing choices or the brands they wear is a sign of superficiality and materialism. Remember, everyone has their own style and preferences, and what matters is how someone feels in their clothes, not the label on them.
15. “I have to have the best of everything.”
Striving for the “best” in every aspect of your life can be an exhausting and unattainable goal. It’s important to prioritise what truly matters to you and focus on quality over quantity.
16. “I’m addicted to shopping.”
If you find yourself unable to control your spending habits and constantly buying things you don’t need, it might be a sign of a shopping addiction. This is a serious issue that can lead to financial problems and emotional distress. Getting professional help is a must if you feel you’re struggling with this.
17. “I can’t go anywhere without looking my best.”
While taking pride in your appearance is great, feeling like you need to be perfectly dressed and accessorised for every occasion can be a sign of materialism. It’s important to remember that your worth isn’t determined by your outward appearance.
18. “This is a status symbol.”
Buying things solely for their status symbol value can be a shallow pursuit. It’s important to focus on what brings you personal joy and fulfilment, not what you think will impress other people. Plus, sorry to break it to you, but these people aren’t going to pay your credit card debt!
19. “I’m so jealous of…”
Source: Unsplash Constantly feeling jealous of what other people have that you don’t can lead to unhappiness and a never-ending cycle of wanting more. It’s important to practice gratitude for what you have and focus on your own journey rather than comparing yourself to other people.
20. “My things are my most prized possessions.”
While it’s natural to cherish certain belongings, valuing material possessions above all else can be a sign of materialism. Remember, the most valuable things in life are often experiences, relationships, and personal growth, not the things you can buy.
