I have been thinking a lot about what I want to do in the next 12 months and I have decided to keep it simple this year and focus not on the things I have and not have but the things I do and do not do.
So many of us get wrapped up in possessions but in the end the possessions just end up holding us back (how do we take care of them, where do we put them, worrying about them). Take a moment and think about all the effort and time you put into your stuff. Now imagine if you could take all that energy and focus it not on things, but on the people in our lives.
This year (and hopefully beyond) I can show my three kids that what they do and not what they own ultimately defines them. While owning something fantastic can feel great – it is short-lived. People will not remember you for the car you drove or the shoes you wore, but rather for what you did and how you treated others.
Try it for yourself. It does not have to be grand gesture. A simple smile and hello go a long way.
For yourself – choose the walk outside vs. watching TV. Choose calling a loved one. Send a simple text message to let someone know you are thinking of them. Help your neighbor. Enjoy nature. Spend your money on experiences where your memories will far outlive any item you will own.
This year – free yourself from the stuff and focus on yourself and the people in your life. It is truly life changing and will simplify your life.
Mom
Very good information for all of us to think about and do. I called a friend this morning to offer to go with her to the doctor today. She is alone, found a lump on her breast, and had to have a mammogram and an ultrasound. Such a small offer, but she was so happy that I was willing to go with her. We often do not realize how small things mean so much to others.
Jennifer Zelazny
That is what it is all about!