Why MORE is less.

Why MORE is less: I picked up this little nugget of wisdom at Borders today for two reasons. First reason, Barry Schwartz explains how the CULTURE of ABUNDANCE robs us of satisfaction. Second reason: I like to read books on society. More and more, people become overwhelmed with choices: starbucks, one shot or two? 1%, soy or fat free? fizzled, sizzled or steamed? Wet or dry? In a cup? With an ice cube?

real life examples that made me want to know more about this book: I've come in contact with a lot of cool people on this planet. However, there are also a ton of absolutely miserable people out there. Many of them live in Germany. *kidding*

Traveling the world, I've met some of the poorest, but happiest people. Back at home with running water and cable TV I feel guilty for not being satisfied.

Some people are void of palm pilots, bMW's, imitation Louis Vuitton purses, direction of the future or choice of study, money to spend on hair dye or magazines. They're not picky about what to wear or how to dress. But then, look at the Ozbourne daughter, she says she's bored. Even with everything at her fingertips and endless $$$ at hand...

Angelina Jolie had some powerful comments in a recent interview "I want my children to be content in any surroundings." She went on to say that if her children were in the Amazon and only had sticks and rocks to play with, she wants them to be happy and not bored and missing their X-box. That's why she chooses travel and adaptation over comfort and security. So, Is there happiness in having fewer choices?

How can we POSSIBLY be satisfied in the grocery or drug store with the delight of being confronted with choosing over:

• 13 `sports drinks,'
• 65 `box drinks' for kids, 85 other flavors and brands of juices
• 75 iced teas and adult drinks (tea drinks sweetened (sugar or artificial sweetener), lemoned, and flavored
• 61 varieties of suntan oil and sunblock
• 80 different pain relievers
• aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen 350 milligrams or 500 milligrams caplets, capsules, and tablets; coated or uncoated
• 40 options for toothpaste
• 150 lipsticks
• 75 eyeliners
• 90 colors of nail polish from one brand alone

I can only sum my personal opinion in this: I love ordering "the special" when I walk into a mom and pop store. Why? Beacuse its the SPECIAL. What about you?