Saturday, February 2, 2013

Can We Have Too Many Choices?

What's for dinner? What movie are we going to see? Which pair of shoes should I wear?  Which cell phone should I buy? Where are we going on vacation this year? 
These are just a few questions that may cross the average person's mind. As middle-class Americans we have so many choices that our brains are constantly evaluating the options before us. We are blessed to be in a country where food, water, housing, clothing and all the tangible and intangible things that fill our lives are readily available. But do all of these choices make us happier? Are we more satisfied because we have more choices?
Too many choices can result in high expectations, which may in turn, leave us with feelings of regret and worry from missed opportunities. Barry Schwartz, psychologist and author writes, "nurture the things that really make you happy." His statement is so simple. 
I've learned a few things from Dr. Schwartz statement. Assess your life and everything in it. Step back and determine what you really like. Then nurture what makes you happy and let go of the rest. You may find that simplifying your life could be fundamental on your road to happiness. 

Luke 12:31

New Living Translation (NLT)
31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.