I recently had the opportunity to read Simplicity is Genius: Simple Wisdom for Simplifying Your Life by Dr. Criswell Freeman. Freeman is a doctor of Clinical Psychology and has compiled and edited many quote books. This simple and enjoyable read contains a plethora of wisdom.
One particular section stood out to me as being highly applicable to the season we are currently in. The holiday season, while meant to be an uplifting time of giving and sharing with family, has also become the season of “stuff.”
Criswell writes, “Our material possessions improve our lives in countless ways, but when those possessions begin to assert undo control over our daily affairs, it’s time to declare, ‘Enough Stuff.’” Criswell continues to mention that the matter is complicated even more when this stuff is purchased with debt. The underlying theme of this principle in the book is to “control your possessions before they control you.”
The goal is to focus on what is necessary and simplify your life. While this may seem hard to do in the holiday season when your list of obligations seems to increase daily, I believe it is absolutely necessary to keep this in mind as you go through the next two weeks.
5 Things to Take Away and Apply
- Don’t feel like you have to do everything. With every event comes an underlying cost: financial, emotional, and physical. Things take time and money and you need to know that you don’t have to do everything. Too often people feel pressured into doing everything and can’t wait until the month is over.
- Limit your purchases.One of Criswell’s suggestions is to “purchase only those things that make a significant contribution to your well-being and the well-being of your family.” Consider and plan your gifts accordingly. Don’t fall prey to just buying “stuff” because you feel obligated.
- Avoid using credit.This one may be the most difficult to abide by because our culture has adapted to buying things with purchased credit. This increases the overall cost of the items and can lead to excess spending.
- Change traditions.If you find yourself in a position where you simply can’t afford the holidays, change your traditions. Focus on devoted time with family, volunteering at community events, and even homemade gifts. Traditions shouldn’t feel confining or overwhelming.
- You have a choice.When it comes down to it, you are in control of what you do this holiday season. Be honest with others and aware of what you are able to do and what you simply feel pressured to do. Do what is best for yourself and your family and don’t worry about the rest.
So for any of the last-minute Christmas planners out there, keep this in mind. Don’t let “stuff” ruin your holiday! Be in control and make the most of this holiday season with what actually matters.
