I love a good purge, whereas my husband likes to hold on to a few more things eg. Billy Idol tapes from the 80's. But to my pleasure he is really starting to see how too much STUFF can get in the way, especially in a small house like ours. So we have both really enjoyed the process of spring cleaning this year and felt the relief and freedom that comes with organised, clear space.
All that being said there was a nagging feeling in the back of my mind "What if we lose sight and just fill these spaces with more STUFF?". And that is when I chanced upon a few Buy Nothing New for a Year blogs. So we are going to give it a try! Not for a year but for a month and see how we go.
Why you ask?
1. The Environment - I don't think it needs to be said but buying clothes, toys, furniture, anything and everything new relies on the use of more of the earths finite resources. See storyofstuff.org/ for more.
2. My Children - I don't want my children to continue asking me "Is it a buying day today". This is like torture for someone like me who hates going to the shops! I also don't want my kids growing up believing that happiness can be bought. I want them to pursue experiences that will enrich their lives and the lives of those around them.
3. Money - We are trying to pay our house off in the shortest time possible and hopefully in doing so will save hundreds of thousands of dollars. I want that money in our pockets not the banks!!!!! So how sad would it then be if we sacrificed that dream just for the sake of having more stuff!
4. Space - Like I said we have a small (and lovely) house. I don't like to feel as though it is all falling in on me. I watch those hoarder shows on TV with a pathological intrigue. It seems that those people have forgone healthy relationships, experiences and money just for stuff they don't even know they've got. This is why I verge on minimalism, an impossible dream with two young boys I think.
5. Freedom - Ever since taking on this challenge (a whole 2 days ago, ha ha ha) I have felt a sense of freedom. I've never liked going to the big shopping malls (all those bright lights and too many people) but gee isn't shopping over the internet easy. I've never liked adverts on TV, but can't stop the pop-ups and sidebars on my computer. Funny how internet advertising is so specific to the things I'm interested in. Advertising is getting far more insidious and shopping is getting way too easy hence why even someone who is 'aware' is still pulled into it. The BNN challenge has made me feel like none of it applies to me at all. And wow that is an immense feeling of freedom. More time for family, friends, veggie patch, creativity and experience!
