Need vs Desire

“Desire is by choice, need is by necessity.”

We cannot seek happiness from other-people or from other-things if we cannot distinguish between things that we need and things that we want.

When we need something, we automatically want that thing and we have a desire for it; however, when we desire or want something, it does not mean we need that thing. Likewise, when we want something, we must have a desire for it; but, when we desire something, it does not mean that we want that thing, or that we need to have that thing. Therefore, we must be aware and cognizant to separate our desires, wants, and needs from one another.

Things that we need, are things that we cannot live without; for example, air, water, food and other “necessities”.  Many other things that we think we need, are simply wants that we can live without. To distinguish the difference between desires, wants, and needs will help us deal with life with a more realistic outlook and with less urgency and stress.