Less Money, Less Power, Less Status, More Peace

In the relentless rat race of modern life, the holy trinity of money, power, and status often gets treated like the ultimate prize. It's as if society collectively agreed that happiness could only be found in a penthouse suite, with a corner office and a closet full of designer shoes. But let’s pause for a moment. What if we dared to step off the hamster wheel and embraced the revolutionary idea of "less is more"? Specifically: less money, less power, less status—and more peace.

I know, I know. It sounds like I’ve just returned from a yoga retreat where I drank too much kombucha. But hear me out. The pursuit of money, power, and status is exhausting. It’s like chasing a mirage; just when you think you’ve reached it, it moves further away. Meanwhile, your knees hurt, your inbox is overflowing, and you can’t remember the last time you laughed so hard you cried.

Let’s start with money. Yes, it’s important to pay bills and occasionally splurge on that extra guac. But after your basic needs are met, chasing more money becomes diminishing returns. Think about it: Is a yacht really going to make you happier than a kayak and a peaceful lake? (Spoiler alert: No. The yacht comes with maintenance fees, staff drama, and the pressure to host insufferable parties with people who wear sunglasses indoors.)

Then there’s power. The thing about power is that it’s like juggling flaming torches. Sure, it’s impressive to watch, but one wrong move, and you’re in for third-degree burns. Power comes with responsibilities, politics, and the occasional backstab from a colleague who’s been quietly waiting for you to stumble. Do you really want to spend your life in high-stakes meetings where “leverage” and “synergy” are thrown around like confetti? Wouldn’t you rather be leveraging a hammock in your backyard instead?

And status? Oh, the fickle beast of status. Social media has turned it into a full-time job. You’re not just living your life; you’re curating it for likes and validation from people you barely know. Do you really need to post a picture of your avocado toast every morning to prove you’re thriving? (Fun fact: You’re allowed to enjoy avocado toast in obscurity. It tastes the same!)

Here’s the radical alternative: embrace less. Less chasing, less striving, less comparing. More rest, more joy, more peace. Imagine spending a lazy Sunday reading a book, instead of doom-scrolling through a feed of people pretending their lives are perfect. Picture a life where your value isn’t tied to your job title, your car, or the number of followers you have. A life where success is measured in sunsets watched, belly laughs shared, and naps taken without guilt.

When you stop chasing money, power, and status, you start finding happiness in the little things. A cup of coffee in the morning sunlight. A deep conversation with a friend. The freedom to wear sweatpants on a Tuesday afternoon. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. And real is where peace lives.

So, here’s to less. Less money, less power, less status. And in their place: more peace, more presence, and more of the stuff that truly makes life worth living. Like ice cream. Or naps. Or ice cream after naps. Now that’s success.