Everything that you've been pursuing or doing are probably just means to an end.
You don't want money. You want what it can buy you. Options. Freedom. A sense of security. Peace of mind.
You don't want luxury goods. You want to buy your way into prestige and status. You want to be perceived as someone with a higher social standing. You want to be treated differently, perhaps with much more dignity.
You don't want to go on mindless shopping. Although the ad that you saw previously did say that happiness is just a purchase away. Who doesn't want happiness?
You don't want a big house or a nice expensive car. Then again, how else are you going to signal to everyone else that you've made it in life? That you've climbed the social ladder and have proven how worthy you are? It's necessary for your survival.
You don't want fame. But how else would you get validation for your talent? In a world of indifference, how else would you stand out and get all the attention to feel important and worthy?
You don't want to smoke. But it's one way to help you get away from your stressors. For you to slow down and take deep breaths.
You don't want to drink. But all these problems that you're carrying is not going to drown on its own. Doesn't matter if it's just a respite.
You don't want to eat unhealthy food. But for someone with a busy life, convenience wins.
When you look at it that way, you realize that everything you're doing or pursuing is just a means to fulfill your personal needs. On a deeper level, your perceived sense of survival.
Like many things, there will always be different means to an end. It's up to you to take notice of what you're trying to fulfill. And the choice is yours to choose the best means to it.
Because it can make a difference to your life.
Question: Have a look at your habits and the things you’re pursuing. What are you trying to fulfill and is it the best means to it?