Help! I have a dilema

heavensent_7 · 01-12-2003, 05:13 PM

I REALLY want to live simply. I also want to live frugally.

I always thought these two things went hand in hand but here's the dilema:

I have LOADS of STUFF

If I was thinking 'simple' I would get rid of it ALL, but if I was thinking 'frugal' I would probably keep it all - Now I'm parayalised not knowing what to do!

I know I make everything really complicated but I don't know what to do and it's beginning to depress me because I'm not doing anything.

heaven · 01-12-2003, 05:19 PM

Keep the stuff you need and use and ditch the rest. LOL i know for me easier said than done. Keep the stuff you love, and get rid of the stuff you don't love, okay that doesn't work either. I am sorry i am no help

heavensent_7 · 01-12-2003, 05:23 PM

You are so funny Heaven

heaven · 01-12-2003, 05:30 PM

bev!!!!!!!!!!!!

homesteadmamma · 01-12-2003, 07:58 PM

Declutter, declutter, declutter!!!!

Go through each room one at a time. Do this in baby steps. Go through everything and make 3 piles. One you keep, one maybe and the other you get rid of.

Pile #3 - get rid of. Give anything away you've not used in a year. If you haven't used it, you won't need it. If you do need it at a later date, someone you know will probably have it or you can probably find that particular item at a yard sale or goodwill.

Pile #2 - the maybe pile. Set a specific date. Mark the boxes with the date and if you haven't used it by that date, give it away or throw it out. Six months is a good starting date.

Pile #1 - keep. Go through this stuff every 6 months or so.

Simplifying and frugal living go hand in hand always. I've been working at simplifying my life now for a number of years and in all those years, anything I've thrown out or given away, I've never needed again.

TheCottageRose · 01-12-2003, 10:37 PM

Great advise, CJ!

I don't have anything to offer other than encouragement and hugs.

Baby steps is the key here....one pile a day or week, just make your list and easy into it. The box idea is great!

Let us know how it works!

captclearance · 01-12-2003, 11:06 PM

I am a keepaholic so I understand your dilelma, just takes steps toward your goal........

SewCrafty · 01-13-2003, 08:04 AM

Great advice CJ!

voodidit · 01-13-2003, 02:57 PM

Another idea, too, try to sell the items you aren't going to keep, put the money in your savings!