Why Chasing More Leaves You Hungry Again

Marina had just closed her third startup and thought, Okay, this time I really have enough. Except the next week she found herself pitching a fourth venture. More money, more influence, more stuff—yet the satisfaction she’d craved was fleeting. Studies show that ‘hedonic adaptation’ means a bigger paycheck or nicer car only boosts happiness for a few months. After that, you drift back to your baseline, craving the next upgrade. It’s the treadmill of more. At a retreat, Marina met an executive who turned the tide. Instead of brainstorming new products, he challenged her: “List five things you’re grateful for right now.” Within minutes, her desperation eased. She realized she had a healthy family, a loyal team, and years of freedom to shape her own path—all gifts she’d ignored. This shift—from seeking more to appreciating enough—is like discovering a door you never noticed. Billionaires and paupers alike share one truth: contentment grows when we count what we already own rather than lusting after what we don’t. Epicurus declared that “nothing is enough for the man to whom enough is too little.” In business as in life, growth mindset matters, but so does gratitude. Learning to balance ambition with acceptance can power true innovation—rather than just chasing an ever-moving finish line.

Each morning, quickly jot down yesterday’s wins—no matter how small—and each night, replay highlights in reverse, savoring each one. When desires for more appear, pause twenty-four hours and reconsider if your craving serves your real goals. By cultivating gratitude, you’ll find genuine contentment and fuel your best work without burning out. Start tonight with one win.