Are we obsessed with having more?

Consumption has evolved beyond a simple means of acquiring material goods. It now intertwines with our perception of success and personal identity. In our relentless pursuit of more, even activities once undertaken for pure pleasure have come to demand a return on investment. A beloved record player playing Janis Joplin's "Mercedes Benz" sparked a reflection on whether we ever truly grasped the original intent behind such consumerist themes.

Books, which once imparted valuable lessons in language and expression, now face scrutiny for their ability to demonstrate measurable outcomes in shaping us into better leaders or more employable individuals. Exercise and networking are now measured by their performance benefits, while hobbies morph into side hustles. Even rest is scrutinized for its productivity value.

What once seemed like an innate part of human nature—comparing ourselves to others—has been amplified by the pervasive reach of social media. Malaysians, like many others, are particularly adept at this comparative scrutiny, always peering over fences to observe the perceived "greener pastures" of relatives, colleagues, and neighbors.

Through social media, we now have access to the lives of millions, constantly bombarded with updates about the successes of others. In Malaysia, progress is measured through growth, investment, income, infrastructure, and development. While these metrics remain relevant, one must ponder if true progress should also encompass more tangible aspects of life, such as a decent home, good schools, meaningful work, affordable healthcare, and time spent with loved ones.

A modest income should suffice to provide peace of mind and savings for a comfortable retirement. Additionally, the act of reading for enjoyment, such as immersing oneself in the whimsical world of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, should not be undervalued. The question posed by the hookah-smoking Caterpillar—“Who are YOU?”—serves as a poignant reminder that some experiences are valuable simply for enriching the human experience, without the need for immediate tangible returns.

Ultimately, perhaps the essence of a good life lies in allowing certain joys and experiences to exist for their intrinsic value, beyond the constant need to demonstrate productivity or gain.