Cultivating Feel-Good Shopping Simplicity
Duane Elgin, author of the landmark Voluntary Simplicity, observes, “Sim- plicity that is consciously chosen, deliberate and intentional, supports a higher quality of life. In reality, it is consumerism that offers lives of sacri- fice, whereas simplicity offers lives of opportunity.”
Although every holiday celebration requires some sort of shopping—even for the most voluntarily simple life- style—a new outlook can put our time and money where it does the most good for everyone—including us. In Less Is More, authors Cecile Andrews and Wanda Urbanska detail the types of simplicity thinking that can streamline our shopping and make us feel good, as we do good. Here’s a synopsis:
UNCLUTTERED. Less stuff translates to a more peaceful, serene home en- vironment. Instead of buying a knick- knack, why not get creative? Paying for an hour of a home-staging expert’s time to give a friend or family member’s abode a fresh look—using their own things—achieves the aim of effecting change without adding stuff.
CIVIC. Giving money to civic organi- zations helps the broader community and can simplify gift-giving. Com- ments Leah Ingram, author of Suddenly Frugal, “I recall my daughter’s long-ago first grade teacher telling us on back-to- school night that she didn’t need any presents at the holidays, and instead, would we please buy board games for the class. That was a specific request that I respected and answered. Had she said that [a specific charity] was her special cause, then I could have made a donation in her name in good conscience.”
FRUGAL. Spending less for things we really don’t need can result in more money saved for the really important things, such as a long-desired vacation that broadens our horizons and helps improve a developing nation. We can also experience the joy of providing unforgettable experiences that enrich loved ones’ lives—perhaps a New York City family reunion taking in the sights
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“Instead of buying new clothes, make over your matching wardrobe by re- combining and re-accessoriz- ing what’s in your closet—and have fun with the remixing process.”
~ Charlene Snyder, style consultant
and culture, or a weekend skiing the fresh powder of the Rockies. Making special plans close to home can also be instilled with the joy of a special occasion.
BUSINESS-ORIENTED. Business-ori- ented simplicity leads us to seek more meaningful alternatives to tchotchke- type gifts for employees and colleagues. Gift certificates to locally owned, green restaurants, health spas and other conscientious retailers and service providers help support local communi- ties while honoring business associates and making shopping meaningful—and simpler—for us.
SOULFUL. Less time spent shopping also translates to the option of devoting more time to beneficial activities that enhance our authentic selves. Spe- cial moments spent taking a walk in a quiet park, autumn garden or another natural setting provide a gentle way to step away from holiday craziness and de-stress.
When we know that the time and mon- ey we spent shopping have not only pleased the recipients, but have also done good in the world, it places our efforts in a new and brighter light. “As we get away from materialism,” sums up Urbanska, “the focus for Christmas and Hanukkah can return to its real spiritual meaning.”
Judith Fertig is a freelance writer in Overland Park, KS; for more informa- tion visit AlfrescoFoodAndLifestyle.
blogspot.com.
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