If you search the popular hashtag #FirstWorldProblems, it’s likely you’ll come across some hilarious yet relatively minor problems or frustrations… These problems are usually self referential admissions of privilege, because on some level we all know many of our day-to-day problems do not compare to the struggles facing millions of people around the world. These “dilemmas” are ones only the privileged would understand. Those of us living in the developed world are all guilty--I know I am!--of falling into the trap of taking these day-to-day annoyances way too seriously. With Thanksgiving (in the US) and many global holidays right around the corner, let’s make a conscious effort to be thankful for our privileges, instead of counting our (silly) problems.
Below are some of my most ridiculous complaints. Do you catch yourself complaining about any of these? Let us know what bothers you in the comments--and maybe even how you’re going to work to take these “problems” a little less seriously and work to focus on the real problems facing our world.
1. Public restrooms--Guh-ross…...
The real problem: Today, there are 2.5 billion people in the world without access to a safe toilet. That’s not gross that’s unsafe.
2. Running out of Pandora skips
3. Losing the remote control
4. Losing WiFi
5. No service on the subway
6. Waking up in the morning for work or school
7. Being "starving"
The real problem: There are 870 million starving people in the world. Of the 870 million, it's been estimated by the World Food Programme that 98% live in developing countries.
8. "Nothing" to wear
9. Cracked iPhone screens
10. Not enough likes on Instagram/Facebook/etc.
11. Delayed flight
All of us--no matter where we live or what our privileges--are so much more fortunate than we give ourselves credit for. It’s time we take a step back and stop taking things for granted. There are countless “inconveniences” we face on a regular basis that are actually blessings. On the larger scale of things, your problem, if it’s not even a “problem” at all, has an easy solution. Don’t be a grinch this year, instead focus on all of the reasons you have to be grateful and find ways to help those less fortunate.