My husband spends money for a living. It’s harder than it sounds. It’s one of those jobs where a crystal ball would be handy. As a purchasing agent, his goal is to have the right amount of product. When sales don’t go as forecast, it can result in an excess of stock, or running out of parts. Neither is acceptable, so he strives for a “just-in-time” inventory.
Most of us aren’t dealing with hundreds of thousands of dollars of inventory, but the challenge to maintain the right balance of stuff in our homes is difficult. People normally err on the side of excess. Too many clothes, too much in the pantry, too many mugs, etc.
Many of my clients look fondly on times in their lives when they had less. “When we were first married and couldn’t put two nickels together—that was the best time.” “When we had to make a temporary move and put half our stuff into storage, it was freeing.” “When we stay in a hotel and have only what we need, it’s so nice.” However, when given the choice of reducing home inventory to achieve that sense of freedom, there's often resistance.
Since we’re in the season of Thanksgiving, I thought we’d glean some Timely Tips from the Pilgrims, who made hard choices and achieved a different type of freedom.
TIMELY TIPS - from the Pilgrims
They knew what was important to them and were willing to make sacrifices to achieve it. For them it was religious freedom and they sacrificed all that was familiar to them. Think about what’s important to you. Determine if managing a lot of stuff is as important to you as relationships, activities, and a sense of freedom from clutter.
They kept only what they needed. They chose what was vital to their existence and left the rest behind. Granted, you have fewer choices when everything you keep has to fit in one large chest. I’m sure the criteria included that which was used frequently, and multiples of anything was deleted from the list.
They secured investors. They knew they couldn’t accomplish their goal and establish a new village without support, so they entered into an agreement for financial assistance. Before you begin to de-clutter, find someone who cares about your success enough to come alongside and support you in your project.
They created the Mayflower Compact. This document laid the foundation for the community’s government. In order to maintain order, whether it’s a new village or a pantry, there must be a plan and commitment to a new system.
They didn’t give up. Only 52 out of 102 of the Mayflower passengers survived the first year. They could have packed up and returned to England when the Mayflower left, but they didn’t. Likewise, don’t throw in the towel when it gets tough. Keep your goal, values, and benefits in mind.
They took advice from Squanto. He instructed them in growing Indian corn which contributed to their survival. Seek help from organized friends or a professional organizer as needed.
They didn’t give up. Only 52 out of 102 of the Mayflower passengers survived the first year. They could have packed up and returned to England when the Mayflower left, but they didn’t. Likewise, don’t throw in the towel when purging gets tough. Keep your goal, values, and benefits in mind.
They took advice from Squanto. He instructed them in growing Indian corn which contributed to their survival. Seek help from organized friends or a professional organizer as needed.
They shared. When they finally had enough, they didn’t hoard it. They shared it. Keep an open hand on your belongings and share with those in need.
They celebrated. They joined with their new friends and celebrated God’s provision, giving thanks. Celebrate your accomplishment—not by buying more stuff, but by enjoying the freedom from it!
Wise Words
Gratitude turns what we have into enough. --Melody Beattie