Since I’ve been off, I’ve realized something. We have a lot of stuff. Just stuff in general. This is mainly my fault.  You see, I love to shop. Doesn’t matter for what  doesn’t matter for who.  If I get bored, or if I need a girls day, we go shopping. I may not need a single thing, but I come home with BAGS of stuff. Eventually, this stuff will get worn for a season then taken to Goodwill. The cycle will continue.

The question is, how do you break the cycle and but not give up one of your favorite pass times?  I’ve tried replacing this hobby with another. I actually went to the library last week and got a library card. I haven’t been in a library in over 10 years! (And then I HAD to go for school)  I figured this was a good idea for a couple of reasons. I like to read (when I have time, which hopefully I will have more of with this job change of mine). It’s free. Plus, I don’t have to store the books.

I’m currently reading Keeping Faith by Jodi Picoulot. It’s really good so far. I read My Sister’s Keeper a while back, and it made me cry!

Anyway, I’ve also tried to change my mindset when I go shopping. When I go to a store, I’m there looking for something in particular. When I walk through the store, I only let myself look for whatever it is I’m shopping for. It seems easy enough in theory. But you fellow shopaholics out there know how hard this can be. I was so proud of myself when I came out of Penney’s yesterday with nothing but my new Easter dress! Yah me :O)

I challenge you to make a plan, and stick to it. Try to limit impulse buying. When you go to the grocery store, have your menu for the week already planned out and your list made. When you go clothing shopping, only buy what you are looking for. It’s a good form of practice for self discipline.