When is enough, really enough? I recently went to a EWomen networking gathering, where the founder Sandra Yancey, talked to us about her weight issues. She was telling us how she had been stuffing her hungry body with food, instead of what it really needed. She said she was hungry for change, hungry for help, hungry to move forward and to fulfill a purpose. That really made me think about my own life. What am I hungry for? I came up with an answer and it was purpose. I know many of you would think I already know my purpose, by the things I do with Fabulous@50, but I don't feel it is enough. So this is it, I want to give more. To stop the excessive buying of things I don't really need or want and do more for my community and the world. It is small, but so are seeds, and they can grow into beautiful trees and flowers.
So I thought...what could I be doing with my time and money that would be more beneficial than a new pair of sandals or a new dress.
Last week I proclaimed on Facebook that I would not be purchasing any new clothing, shoes...etc for the rest of this year. Many people thought it was because I have a full closet. Partly the reason, but mostly because I think I am buying when I should be giving. Am I filling my hunger by buying something new, a very temporary solution. I guess the rest of the year will tell and I will keep you posted.
I do have have a few exceptions:
• new underwear is on the okay to purchase new list
• consignment or used if really needed
• gifts will be accepted (my birthday is coming up)
• I have a planned trip to South America. (I may purchase something there) I am not usually a big shopper on vacations on trips, I prefer to enjoy the experiences of a country.
So if you are interested in joining me on this journey, here are a few things to do:
• purge your closets and give it away, sell it and donate money
• stop the shopping habit, go for a walk, take up a new hobby instead, volunteer
• when you feel the need to buy, give instead, a gift to a friend, a donation to a charity or save your money.
Here is an idea, every time you feel the need to buy, go to Kiva.com and give a $25.00 donation to someone. Fabulous@50 has a group there.
Watch for an upcoming event this summer. #Ihaveenough
P.S. Picture is of my latest purchase. A pair of vintage gloves and brooch to wear with my consignment dress and shoes for a couple of events I am attending this year.
Dianna Bowes is the founder of Fabulous of50 and the editor of Be Fabulous! Magazine.
Dianna was the winner of the 2011 YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Turning Point category and the 2014 Leader of Tomorrow Business Award. She is a creative soul, who loves connecting people and embracing life. Travel, great food, family, friends and a long bike ride on a sunny day is her definition of great life.