Fiscal responsibility can be hard to embrace. It’s so easy to get caught up in the Joneses. We’re in an immediate gratification mindset and the average person wants it all. And they want it now. An obvious behavior and belief that is both treacherous and time-consuming. But the truth is, most of America falls victim to it at one point or another. We swim in debt; whether it be our homes, our cars, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, etc. It’s gross. And I’m no exception. But I hate it. It’s a resentment to feel imprisoned to things. So, 2019 has presented me with a crossroads in my former beliefs and behaviors. Is it possible for me to convince myself (and my family) that the ideal is to downsize and stop caring about the fancy and the frills?! I’m not sure yet. But I’m using the coming months to see if I can position myself for that kind of acceptance.
I’ve found myself contemplating a lot of things since I went back to work. I value my time just a BIT more and I’ve been thinking long and hard about how I want to spend it. It’s led me to consider what life might be like if I could give up on the image and get comfortable with the idea. The idea that a life full of STUFF isn’t a life well-lived. Sure, it would undoubtedly be glamorous to live like the Kardashian’s, but I suspect it would also feel less meaningful and certainly a helluva lot more dramatic. So, I’m thinking I want to be responsible for less and instead, responsive to more. I want added memories and moments with fewer articles and attachments.
Step one to finding comfort with this conflict is really convincing myself that it’s okay to let go of superficial image. I am guilty of being envious from time to time. And I know you are, too. Comparison is an easy game but not at all a fun one. It’s a measurement that simply robs me of joy. And my happiness is important! It should never be tied to what other people think of me; my home, my car, my education, my possessions or even my family. So, I’ve made a commitment to myself this year. I want to find comfort in having less. 
Step two. Convincing my family that this is the way to go. Implementing some Marie Kondo mechanics. Clearing out places and spaces. Downsizing our square footage. Buying less to embrace more. I’m not the first nor will I be the last to take on this task. However, the operation becomes a bit more daunting when it involves the needs and desires of the people you share a roof with. But friends, I’m on a mission. Desire. Discipline. And a lot of diligence. It’s my year to make it happen.
Just don’t be surprised when you have to hear about all the kicking and screaming that took place along the way. Goodbyes are hard.
Weakness for Words 