Laugh with me, former procrastinators – I just spent 10 minutes looking for notes on this blog – and I found them right where they should’ve been – in my tickler file! Yes, this system is working well for me. I love a clean desk that welcomes me to work without distraction. How’s your system working for you? (Progress with Papers, March 13, 2017)
We have begun a huge cleanout project at our house. The Dreaded Office. Due to schedules, responsibilities, the magnitude of the task, and the thoroughness we’re seeking, our goal is to have it done by mid -July. We’re off to a great start! Please pray for focus and persistence. Thank you!
Cleaning out reminds me: There can be great joy in not owning.
I’m not a minimalist and don’t aspire to be one. I like stuff; but I want to own it, not have it own me. When stuff controls me, some stuff has to go. I want to enjoy what I have. Having too much kills joy. It gets hard to breathe, think, act.
Therefore, procrastinators feel overwhelmed and walk away, or they’re distracted by handling everything. Delay beckons. Over-owning is life draining.
True, owning can bring joy. Some of us like owning a swimming pool and are happy to carry responsibility in exchange for the pleasure; others of us find it a burden. Some of us are happy to polish silver in exchange for the beauty; others of us find that bothersome. We get to exercise our individuality – and enjoy other people’s.
I can visit another’s home and enjoy what they have without having to own those things myself. Long ago I would buy a dish like theirs – because I liked the dish. Not anymore.
Now, before buying or otherwise acquiring, I consider the cost of owning.
What will this item require of me? Would I have to keep it safe? What kind of space will it require on display or in storage? What time will it demand for maintenance? Is it worth the money? What else could I do with the money – give, save, travel, use for future needs? Will the item be a burden for our children? Will the item serve us – in usefulness or beauty – in ways that justify these costs? Will something we already have work? If it’s “free,” still ask. Would I pay money for this thing?
If I choose not to buy, what will I receive? No safeguarding, no giving up space, no maintenance, no time or energy, no monetary loss, no burden for children. I get freedom, time, space, flexibility, availability of myself and our money.
It’s a relief and fun to appreciate and enjoy without owning. Buying can be the gift that drains. Not buying can be the gift that keeps on giving.
What a pleasure to enjoy the beauty of a vase in a store – then walk away having had that moment.
It’s enough.
How do you evaluate the wisdom of a purchase?
Leave a Reply