Enough And The Consumption-Fulfillment Curve

The Consumption-Fulfillment Curve

"He who knows he has enough is rich", Lao-Tzu said. That is because achieving a relationship with enough means unlimited fulfillment, instead of the diminishing returns of increasing consumption.

I feel rich because my basic needs are being fulfilled - not everyone in the world is so fortunate. I have enough food, clothing, and shelter. As long as we live in a world where millions are starving, homeless and cold, how can I expect any more? 

I have quit the endless striving for more. It has allowed me to create a life directed toward more productive and fulfilling purposes. I don't have much by Western standards, but I know I have enough. That knowledge has set me free.

I can't say what 'enough' is for anyone else, but I can tell you what it is for me.

Enough is: 

• liberation from perpetual want.
• the sweet spot, elegant and simple. 
• sufficient, not surfeit.
• my fair share.
• what the planet can sustainably provide.
• feeling secure and satisfied with what I have.
• comfortable vs. luxurious and extravagant.
• sane and rational.
• anti-consumerism.
• the cure for greed.
• doable for all of our sisters and brothers around the world.

Yes, you can buy a piece of the moon

Gandhi knew that the planet could provide enough for everyone's need, but not for everyone's greed. He recommended each of us find our 'enough'. That way we can use our resources in the most minimal way so as to not deprive others, and to protect our environment.

"How much is enough?" is a question that we must answer in our journey toward a better life, and a better world. When we answer this question truthfully and honestly, fulfillment is unlimited and we are truly rich.