Don’t overthink it. Those three words can simplify your life.
Every day, mail, email, texts and TV tell us we need something newer, better or more expensive.
Instead of getting sucked into “you’re not good enough” or “you don’t have enough,” try simplifying three things we tend to overthink:
• Cars
• Clothes
• Money
Don’t overthink cars
Years ago I wrote a column for the Dallas Business Journal, “Add $1,000,000 to Your Net Worth Driving Used Cars.”
I argued that driving preowned cars over a lifetime pays off with…
- lower insurance premiums
- lower car or no lease payments
- lower repair fees
I don’t care that my 2009 Acura MDX is Bluetoothless.
Neither does it have the fancy computer technology in this 2021 Tesla, which suddenly launched from a parking spot into my gym.
I thought he accidentally stepped on the accelerator.
But the driver said his foot was on the brake when the SUV took off.
I don’t know how much they cost, but I’m sure he paid big bucks.
Instead, buy older pre-owned cars and limit technology failure.
Don’t overthink clothes
Steve Jobs wore blue jeans and a black pullover every day.
Who cares if you wear the same thing?
Wear what works. Save your decisions for what matters.
Funny how the same dress or shirt becomes your favorite for outings.
Wear it everywhere until it just wears out.
Vogue magazine’s creative director usually wore black.
Probably the same outfit.
“I don’t want to think about what I’m wearing in the morning; I want to put all my focus on the clothes I’m shooting. It’s like a uniform. You don’t have to make a decision about it. I spend my whole life making decisions.”
— Grace Coddington, Vogue Magazine
Don’t overthink money
Money makes or breaks a life well-lived.
Money is a tool of habits despite…
- education
- background
- interruptions
After 40 years of observing money habits in the rich and the not-so-rich, I believe personal spending habits play the biggest role in financial stability.
Not education. Not privilege.
Just humble, simple habits.
- Drive the same car.
- Stay in your house or apartment.
- Become debt-free as quickly as you can.
Don’t overthink it.
Simple choices, repeated over time, can save money, reduce stress, and leave fewer regrets.
What’s one thing you’ve learned to stop overthinking?
Stories like this are part of the reflections I write about living fully, finding joy, and making life count, which you can explore on my About Stephen Blaising page.
Totally spot on Steve. I too drive a 2009 Acura MDX, not because I can’t afford a Ferrari, but because I rather give my excess wealth to society, not my kids. I already gave them plenty.
A lot to think about in your comment AB. Thanks for sharing.
Overthinking everything….. Guilty. Simplicity is the goal (every year!), but so hard to achieve…. Thanks Steve for calling out “overthinking”
There’s something about saying the words “don’t overthink it” that triggers the brain to release and let go. Maybe it’s just me, but it helps! Great to hear from you Jeff.
Your wise advice mirrors the simplicity of Jesus’ life on earth. And yet, He truly is the richest human ever to live. The paradox marvels me. Thanks, Steve.
Wonderful thoughts Wayne. Thanks for sharing.