“Before you try to keep up with the Joneses, be sure they’re not trying to keep up with you.”
— Erma Bombeck
Simplified Meaning:
Sometimes people want to buy fancy things or change their lifestyle because they see others doing it. But before you try to copy what your neighbors or friends are doing, think about whether they might actually be copying you in the first place. For example, imagine you see your friend drive a new car and you feel like you need a new one too. But, what if your friend got that car because they noticed you often take good care of your things and they wanted to keep up with your good habits? It's important to be sure you’re making choices because they’re right for you, not just because you want to match what others have. If you always try to follow others, you might end up not being happy with the choices you make. So, focus on what makes you happy and what you really need, rather than just trying to outdo someone else. This way, you can avoid unnecessary stress and live in a way that truly suits you.
