Being versus Having Modes of Existence

Having Mode of Existence

  1. Focused on external possessions
  2. Preoccupied with material things
  3. High value placed on "What I Have"
  4. Massive energy expended on acquiring stuff
  5. Constantly making social comparisons that demean others and aggrandize self

Being Mode of Existence

  1. Focused on internal values
  2. Preoccupied with existential meaning
  3. High value placed on "What I Am"
  4. Energy expended on developing character
  5. Social comparisons are characterized by generosity toward the other

(Material adapted from Erich Fromm, To Have or To Be?)