Why do we always want to keep up with the Smiths'?

Question

Everytime I go to somebody's house I come out depressed because how beautiful their house is and mine isn't. My house isnt shabby either. I live in a nice neighborhood, but I just cant seem to keep up appearances. Why do I care?

Answer 1

god i am the same way dude. i guess the best answer i can give you is don't judge your self worth based on superficial things. become a well rounded person with family, friends, job, sports, hobbies, spirituality, ect. have some deep thoughts and figure out what is or should be really important to you in life. cause we can't take our money with us when we die.. good luck

Answer 2

We live in a competitive society, marked by our love of money and capitalism. (I'm thinking you live in America.) Since the day you were born you have been seeing advertising and it is quite influential on most people. I think it is detrimental in the overall picture. I mean, really, why are we so concerned about material possessions?

I outgrew the tendency, quite early in life, to "keep up with the Joneses." My ex-husband helped with his observation one day upon returning home and seeing yet ANOTHER new car in the neighbors driveway. (We had just bought a new car and we were both students) I said, "Do you think the neighbors bought another new car?" He said, "I hope NOT, we can't afford another one." Which is how I deal with "problems", humor.

BTW: I drive a 30 year old Honda and I love it, but the neighbors don't seem to be trying to keep up with ME. LOL.

Peace.

Answer 3

In UK, we call it keeping up with the Joneses.
Maybe you care because other people suggest you should. Possessions are ultimately futile. A sound set of values is far more important.

Answer 4

its keeping up with the jonhsens.so why do you care.if you make an effort,you can be just as happy,from mikhal in israel.