Here we are again starting a brand new year. Truthfully, I'll live the new year much like I did the old one. No monumental changes that I can predict.
For several years now, I've been on a reduce-and-organize kick. I don't deprive myself of things that make my life better, easier, or happier, yet for sure, I've become a more mindful shopper. Call me an under buyer as opposed to an emotional buyer. Beautiful, impractical things stay on a retailer's shelf even if I fall in love while standing in front of them! I do that plenty of times! Still, if I don't have a place, budget, or need for ''it'' (whatever it is) I move on. [↑Photo of fireworks above left: Istock]
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| Rockefeller Center tree taken on December 30, 2024 |
I also take stock of what I already own such as articles of clothing like t-shirts, leggings, or shoes; scented soaps; skincare products (retinols and moisturizers are a weakness); or makeup from eye shadows to lipsticks and have formed the habit of using up what I have at home before adding new products. Over time I've learned our lives get simpler if we're not always out and about looking for more commodities to haul home. When we do replace possessions that either run out or wear out, we can fully enjoy new purchases. It turns out that buying more than enough doesn't tend to save us money or increase our happiness. So my motto is: Always buy enough, not more than enough!
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There is an area of life where spawning more than enough rocks ... and increases happiness. It's showing kindness to our fellow humans. We can't shower others with more than enough kindness. If you can help someone do it. Little appropriate kindnesses can make a huge difference in the lives of other people. Judge people less. Assess your time and energy to know what you can give. Be generous with your time, acceptance, and hospitality. There are no small gestures only overthinkers who are afraid of extending themselves. In instances when your goodwill isn't received well (as there are all kinds of imperfect people in the world) remember you're only responsible for your good intentions, not someone else's reaction. Move on to the next human, chances are s/he will be on the same page as you! Surround yourself with positive, generous, kind people. Happy New Year🎉, Readers! Now and then drink the champagne. Know that I love and appreciate you! Many thanks for your support!! |
Champagne dutifully drunk at Christmas and New Year, and very nice it was too. I like the term under-buyer, and have become one myself since we moved onto our retirement pensions last year. I re-use and recycle a lot more now, as you say, don't buy more than enough. I am finding I can save money from my pension with the incentive of a trip to Europe coming up. Happy New year to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteSince I've become an under-buyer myself, Trish, I'm more contented and truly enjoy new things when old things and must be replaced. With clothes I really appreciate basics that can be dressed up or down.
DeleteWishing you and Mr C. a very Happy New Year! Oh a cultural trip to Europe, I'll enjoy reading and seeing everything on your blog. Experiences and culture are so worth giving up unnecessary material things to do.