We lose / we appreciate

Why Can't People Be Content with What They Have, and Why Must They Lose It to Appreciate What They Had?

Here's a question I've heard many times (and probably will hear again). But for those who may not engage in this discussion but could use an answer, here it is.

First of all, the situation can vary from case to case. Each can find the answer that applies to them.

The First Question: Why can't people be content with what they have?

There are situations where a person appreciates what they have when they have something specific, but they need more to be truly happy.

Similar situations exist where a person appreciates what they have, but they need something else to feel fulfilled or happy.

There are situations where a person appreciates what they have and desires nothing more than to keep what they have forever.

Some people do not appreciate what they have because:
A. They cannot realize within themselves that what they have is real; for them, everything seems like a dream that can end at any time.
B. They do not appreciate what they have because they have never had something so precious, and they do not know how to appreciate it.
C. Some people simply do not know how to appreciate what they have, even after they have lost it, because they do not value what they receive.

Sometimes, people want more, not because they are dissatisfied with what they have, but because they want to evolve. Having what they desired opens their minds to new possibilities, shows them that they can have what they want, and this, in turn, makes them want more. It's a vicious circle that includes the need for growth: 1. You want more, 2. You get more, 3. You have more... so, 1. You want more.

Now, let's move on to the second part.

Why Must They Lose It to Appreciate What They Had?
Often, we appreciate what we had even more intensely only after we lose it because the need to have it is stronger than when we already possess it. When you have something you need, your need is satisfied by the presence of that something. Having something you need diminishes the desire and need to have that thing, while the absence of something you need accentuates that need, inevitably leading to a stronger appreciation of it.