Walk into any store these days, and you are instantly bombarded with advertisements. Shelves are stocked with the pretties of today, large "On Sale" signs entice you to make impulsive purchases, filling your home with items you don't need.

Is it truly the path to happiness, or is it the root of many of our stresses? We constantly strive to be the Joneses, but that's an impossible endeavor. There will always be someone with a better kitchen when you visit, a social media influencer showcasing the latest and greatest makeup and clothing, and your peers will always seem to have a better car than yours.

Are you truly happy owning all these things? Sure, in the short term, you might feel a rush of excitement when you return home with bags of merchandise, eager to replace the old on the shelf and tuck them into the closet. However, in the long run, do material possessions genuinely contribute to your happiness? Probably not. You are stuck with empty wallets, a closet and garage overflowing with unnecessary items, leaving little room for what truly matters. These possessions can distract you from the important things that are truly important: family, friends, and your own self-worth.

It's time to consider ending your ties with consumerism. Embrace the simple pleasures, such as taking walks with friends or baking cookies for your children instead of purchasing store-bought treats. Enjoy dates with your spouse using the money you save by not shopping. Living in a smaller home with less maintenance can lead to true happiness, as being happy with what you have is real joy. Try it for a New Year's resolution or for a summer revival. Clear out useless items that hold no significant or sentimental value. Discover a new hobby to replace shopping. Don't let things define your worth. Your worth is more valuable than any item you will ever own.