Everyday after work, I look forward to sitting by my little heater, snuggling under the pink blanket my mom crocheted years ago, and reading one of my books, while sipping a glass of wine. It is a drastic change from my once chaotic schedule, but I definitely welcome it.
When I am not reading my self-help, or character development books, I happily crack open contemporary adult novels in the likes of those by Sophie Kinsella. These would be the pink paperbacks usually with a graphic of a shoe or a shopping bag on the front cover.
I find myself laughing out loud at the hilarious antics of the 20-something young character trying to make it in the world of journalism or marketing. The best part is that I can relate full-heartedly with the protagonist.
Most of these novels are pretty much the same. They are about a young woman, finding herself in her mid-twenties nowhere she had imagined herself being years ago. She struggles to make it big, but is confronted by her own insecurities and self-doubt. Also illustrated are her family troubles, supportive friends, celebrity sightings, boy drama, and financial problems. Welcome to my world.
Last night, I wrote a check for an extremely large sum for late fees. The amount I saved for opening a card for a couple department stores did not even come close to the amount I paid for the fees. Lesson from this: pay on time and charge less.
Earlier this year, I was inspired by an article I read about a group of friends who successfully refrained from shopping for an entire year. As a result, they saved tons of money, developed healthier perspective on worldly materials, and were resourceful with their belongings.
I have had many friends go on “shopping fasts” as a result of a conviction to be good stewards of their money, and to give to charities or ministries instead. For some reason, I never joined these friends (I do give, but I have never joined them on their fasts). So honestly, I was a bit surprised to find myself intrigued by an article featured on a secular online journal. I wanted to go slow, so I decided to aim for three months… and what a challenge! It has been an incredibly difficult two weeks! Just yesterday, I found the most perfect pair of Sevens jeans for a fraction of its actual retail price. A $244 pair of Sevens jeans for less than $50! While my mind was screaming this bargain only comes once in a blue moon, and I must grab it right away or I would dream about it for months on end, I decided to stand by my goal to not make any purchases. Sure, I would have saved $200, but I think sticking to my "fast" is priceless.
I feel my life slowly changing by simply adhering to this otherwise simple plan. For lunch, instead of heading over to the mall, I have been going to the park to reflect and journal. I return to work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I have also determined that I have all the basics for my wardrobe and have no need to make any additional purchases. I need to better utilize my wardrobe to maximize their use. This past weekend, I cleaned out my closet, giving away items I’ve only worn twice and have no intention of ever wearing again. It was difficult parting with a couple DKNY tops and Express jeans, and the thought did cross my mind that the homeless probably would not even care nor notice the brand names, but I do know that they need these clothes more than I do.
