The Oxford Dictionary defines materialism as “a tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values.” Most people realize it’s a losing proposition. Still, with 24/7 appeals to buy, buy, buy, it’s easy to become preoccupied with the pursuit of material possessions without even realizing it. But it’s never enough, and we may fall into thinking less of ourselves based on how we measure up to those with more money and stuff. Obviously, ignoring one’s material needs altogether in a money-based society doesn’t work: Just try not having to be materialist all the time when you’re broke. This leaves materialism as only a problem for those with fundamentally sufficient economic resources. So, lucky you. Nonetheless, there’s a healthy balance that should be struck. And there are ways to break out of a destructive materialistic mindset.

De-programming your mind

Jessica Stillman, writing for Inc.com, suggests three steps to take to shift your perspective back to sanity as you wend your way through a materialist world. 1. Get mindful about advertising Face it: You’re surrounded. On TV, in apps, on web pages, on the streets, it’s everywhere. People want you to buy their products. You may be able to minimize the impact of this 360-degree brainwashing by taking conscious note of your exposure to it. Stillman suggests that you can gain a better appreciation of its insidious effect—and build up resistance—by listing every ad to which you’re exposed for four days. Spoiler alert: It’s going to be a lot of writing and a jaw-dropper. 2. Inventory your actual values Take a time-out to thoughtfully write out all the things you really consider important, such as loved ones, feeling healthy, and so on. Don’t be disappointed if the list seems trite. These things are often cited as having value because they really do. Want to be happier? Consider the acquisition of these things your new goal.