What Do You Really Want?

It’s quite natural to want or desire something in our lives; whether that’s world peace or a pair of Jimmy Choo’s, isn’t important.

But why we think we want them, and what we believe they will give us, does matter.

The Oxford Dictionary defines the verb “want” as “to have a desire to possess or do something”. and the noun as  “a lack or deficiency of something”.

That feeling of desiring or lacking something can have a profound effect on our happiness and confidence.

When I started to think about the things I wanted or wished for (after world peace obviously!). I realised there was quite a lot, and that wanting things quite often popped into my thoughts.

At the time of writing this blog I came up with my current top 6:

1. I want to book a family holiday
2. I wish I could have a cleaner every day
3. I want an All Saints top that appeared in my browser
4. I wish I was nearer my friend whose Dad has just died
5. I want to finish that open bag of Werthers sweets
6. I wish there was more time in a day

Some of my wants aren’t achievable, such as more time in the day. Others aren’t exactly a necessity, like a cleaner every day and some are just greed!

It did make me think, though, about how these thoughts might be affecting my self-esteem and happiness. Also, do I really want those things, or am I just being manipulated by marketing?

When I started to reflect on these questions, I realised that wanting things was often my natural reaction to a situation. For example:

• Feeling overwhelmed – I want a holiday or a cleaner
• Need to earn more money – I want a quick fix marketing programme
• A friend buys a new outfit – I wish I could have a new outfit too
• Feeling sad or guilty – I want to do something to help others
• Feeling bored – I want that bag of sweets

not all wanting is a bad thing, but perhaps rather than just wanting a distraction, a quick fix or to feel better. I could focus on my emotions and real needs in that moment, which is far more likely to boost my confidence and self-esteem than reaching for a credit card.

My tips for you would therefore be:

Take some time to think about the things you’re wanting. Question yourself, why you want them and what they are really trying to solve. Is there a different way you could meet that need?

I found it an interesting exercise, although it hasn’t stopped me lusting for those Jimmy Choos!!

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Thanks and enjoy,

Jo