What causes stinginess?

As we recently explored the depths and nuances of generosity, it seemed only right that we also turned to its opposite, namely stinginess, greed, avarice or cupidity to name just a few. We could ask ourselves where these traits come from and perhaps discover ways to minimize them and even wipe them out of our lives? 

Always curious, I did some research and this is what I found. To begin with, it seems that the root of these negative traits are found in our drive for survival and material gains. These instincts, while essential for survival in the past, can sometimes manifest as greed and a desire to hoard resources. It’s also undeniable that consumerism, materialism, and the emphasis on wealth and status in our modern societies will inevitably encourage a culture of greed and competition.

From a more personal experience as I was raised in tough conditions, scarcity, deprivation, or insecurity in childhood can also lead to a fear of scarcity and a strong desire to accumulate resources to push back on them. Then come the usual psychological factors, like low self-esteem, anxiety, or a need for control that may also exacerbate these traits. 

As you can see, there are quite a bunch of reasons that can make some of us act like a miser. In a next blog we’ll see how we can fight this and turn these frown-upon behaviors into desirable qualities, so please stay tuned!