When It's Time to Make a Change

This week of the year always feels a little bit strange; almost like being in limbo. It’s a time that we’re focused on the closure of another year and ushering in a new one.  For many, it’s a time of reflection on what has been and what is to come. This reflection often leads us to the realization that we need to make a change. 

CHANGE...  One of the heaviest words in our vocabulary with the weight of its expectations, and one of the most difficult things to achieve.

During the course of the past year, I’ve been fortunate to speak to hundreds of potential Cooperative members in person, on the phone, and electronically via email and chat. In that time, I’ve listened and learned many things from them, for which I’m very grateful.

Here are a few of those kernels of wisdom that have inspired change in me, which I hope are also helpful to you!

Be purposeful with your possessions.

Things don’t get easier to let go or downsize with time – quite the opposite – they become more burdensome! If you own things that aren’t being used, whether it’s clothing, furniture, décor, or items that were gifted to you, it’s time to let those things go. Many current and potential Members have said this is one of the hardest things they’ve had to do, especially when they learn that their kids don’t want any of it. I’ve learned to preserve things of sentimental value in my memories, or in some cases digital photos that don’t take up physical space. It’s important to me that I don’t pass this burden along to my own children; to sift and sort through and make the painstaking decision on whether to hang onto every kitchen spoon and chair. Sell, throw, or donate on a regular basis.

Experiences make great gifts.

Time is an UNrenewable resource.

We are all busy and life moves rapidly in our always-connected world. We all carry a computer in the palm of our hands in the form of a cell phone, and this is a distraction like none that has ever existed before it.  Time is the greatest casualty of our era, and the most priceless commodity. This is a daily battle and a work-in-progress for me personally, but one that has become more top of mind. I want to be in the places and with the people that matter the most to me.  If you knew today was the last day that you had to live, how would you spend it?

Be strategic with how you spend your energy.

Similar to time, energy is a resource that isn’t infinite, particularly as we get older. I’ve realized that in order to continue to live a long and fulfilling life, more time needs to be spent on building physical strength, challenging myself to learn new things, and remaining adaptable. Movement and activity are not optional, because if you don’t use it…you WILL lose it! There will be trade-offs, and this is by design.

This is why we plan for retirement; there will come a time when we can’t live a meaningful life outside of a full-time career because our energy levels simply won’t permit it. The same can be said about maintaining large homes, full schedules, and more “stuff”.

What I’ve learned is that the decisions around determining what is worthy of your energy (and time) should offer you contentment, fulfillment, and peace.   Oh, and if it eventually means less house and yard work, that’s okay with me too!