Hello friends!
That Uhaul and I made it to Oregon and I’ve been spending some time getting settled in. Moving was so much easier when I was in my 20’s… or maybe it was that I just had less stuff!
Oh, the stuff!
I’ve never considered myself a heavy shopper; I don’t even like to do it. Yet, I found so many things I must have thought I needed – but then I packed it all away for 9 months and that need sure didn’t surface. After all - who needs to own 27 bras? Seriously?
So I’ve been thinking on this…
I think we use stuff sometimes to fill empty emotional holes. Yes, I know I’m not the first to say it, no need for shock. I think I've figured out WHY it works though.
I’ve realized that buying stuff actually makes me feel some sort of achievement. When I don’t feel like I’m accomplishing much, then buying things, especially if they are on some sort of checklist labeled “I NEED THIS TOO,” brings a feeling of self-satisfaction.
Achievement: brought to you by Visa.
But this period of “no stuff” has really helped me look at that. What have I accomplished, except for filling my closet, filling another’s wallet? Is this the kind of achievement I want in life? Is this the kind of legacy I want?
Legacy. Yep, I said it. Everything I do, each and every day, adds to what the world will remember of me. And if I’m not careful, I’m going to be lulled into missing out on all that I am meant to share with this world.
You are too! So here are a few steps to help us:
- Recognize coping when you see it. What are you dealing with? How are you dealing with it? Is it healthy coping, or could you use a new strategy or two?
- Analyze your achievements. Are you accomplishing things on a regular basis that give you satisfaction? If not, what can you do RIGHT NOW to change it?
- Stop shopping. You are wasting your money on things you don’t really need.
- In this moment, start leaving your legacy. Today, you can do something that builds a memory with someone else. Do it.
Our time, our hearts, our love and our laughter – these are the things we want to be remembered for.
Not drawers full of bras.
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