With What I Have, 1.10.25


 Using what you have on hand, rather than immediately going to the store to buy more "stuff" that you "need", not only saves money and saves more junk from ending up in a landfill, it forces you to exercise the creative part of your brain and think outside of the box. 

A recent example from my own experience:

January is a "No Spend" month for me. I only allow myself to buy what I can consume. I resist temptation to buy more stuff-whether the stuff is more clothing, more gadgets, more furniture, etc. A few days ago, after cleaning up the Christmas mess and putting away all of the decorations, I realized we could really use a chair-side table in the living room, I immediately began thinking of what things I could re-purpose as a table. Options: a small ottoman, a wooden wine rack cube, a crate, a bar stool, etc. Then I remembered a vintage TV tray that I had painted and collaged a few years ago that was stored in the basement. I brought it up, wiped the dust and realized it was perfect. Not only is it the perfect size and style, it folds up on days when I need a bit more floor space and less table space. 

I know I think more creatively when I have limited choices, rather than ALL of the choices, which, honestly, always overwhelms me. "Shopping" in my own home, obviously, limits my choices. So, to exercise your brain, what could you re-purpose in your home at those times when you might be tempted to shop for something new? Maybe make a list: If I need this________, I could use that __________. 

Fun, right?! Share in the comments. I would love to read your "This or That" lists!

Be Good. Do Good. 

~ Juli


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