You can use what you have and reenergize your surroundings! Sometimes the simple act of really investigating what you have, reorganizing, using in new and different ways, etc, can refresh your area just as much as buying something new.
We run into this at the boutique. From time to time, we’ll hit a slow spell where new inventory isn’t coming in. So instead of having new items to work into displays and such, we’ll take what we have and change it up. Sometimes using things in unconventional ways adds the best element! A wreath that one typically hangs on a door or wall instead can get used as a decorative centerpiece on a table. Or perhaps what you used to organize by brand you switch up and instead organize multiple brands by color.
Rearranging can be energizing and when you successfully use what you have and somehow reinvent interest it is incredibly satisfying! And this isn’t limited to a boutique, this can apply at home, in your life, or in your studies! What you give your attention to peaks your interest. You can use what you have and take things to the next level!
At Home
My nephew and I recently remodeled my closet and added wallpaper. Though I did buy the wallpaper, I ended up rearranging and reorganizing a number of things that I already had. I wanted a pretty mirror in the closet and shopped around some, only to discover I wanted to use the mirror I already had in my room, so we moved it into the closet. And now, without too much money – but a decent amount of time and effort – the closet is fresh and a treat to walk in!
I recently bought a vanity from a shop downtown. I have been wanting one for a while and was excited to finally see one that was “just right”! It has a nice number of drawers for my hair products, makeup, etc, but I realized in loading the drawers that I needed drawer organizers to make it tidy. I ordered basic clear plastic organizers. While I waited for them to be delivered, I used little pieces of decor throughout my room. A teacup here, a decorative tray there. I liked the effect of using the pretty pieces, but hated them to be hidden in the drawers. They are too pretty to tuck away for too long!
What are some creative ways that you can bring new interest and life to your area by using what you have? Perhaps a pretty plate or bowl to catch your keys and wallet when you get home. A pretty cup or vase to hold your pens. Faux florals help to soften an area that looks too hard or industrial. Perhaps you have a lackluster piece of furniture, consider a fresh coat of paint, it can work wonders. Sometimes the simple act of giving attention to areas that need help reenergize them more than buying something new!
In Your Life
It is especially important to use what you have in your life. For instance, if you want to improve your relationship with God, no number of new devotionals or apps will help you like picking up the Bible you already own and reading it. That’s not to say that a new translation might not be in order or that you never need to buy another devotional. But rather, before you rush out to try new and eye catching things, examine whether you might perhaps already have something comparable and you just need to practice a bit of self discipline.
I fall into this category plenty. I have a weakness for trying new business trainings and I even rationalize that if I have to spend money on it then it must really hold value that will help me do what I do better. And then I find myself with three different trainings, all for the same line of work, that I’ve barely spent any time on. And that’s all on me. I finally determined that I would not let myself take multiple courses for the same topic until I was finished with the previous course. Not revolutionary in the least, but simply trying to work smarter!
I can’t help but think that might be a generally good rule of thumb in life too. To thoroughly try and investigate something before getting distracted by the next thing. Whether you are trying new hair products to help your hair be healthier, trying a new workout, or even a diet. Give what you first found a chance to work or not before you race off to the next thing. Of course the balance of that would be to be sure not to beat a dead horse, as in pay attention and if, after a decent effort such and such isn’t making a difference, then move on.
It’s all about balance and making an effort and making use of what you have. Pay attention and do your best to make intelligent decisions! A lot of times I’ll give something the effort of finishing the entire bottle and seeing where that has me. Or doing the workout for thirty days and seeing how I feel. Sometimes it’s a definite “yes, that makes a difference” so I keep at it. While other times I’m not even sure I can determine any change – those are the things to move on from and look for something new.
In Your Studies and How You Spend Your Time
We’ve already discussed reading the Bible and making use of what you have. But what about other studies and classes. Before you buy a new sewing machine for sewing class, have you maxed out the one you already have? Do you really think a new calculator is necessary for math class or do you just need to use the one you have and apply yourself better?
I’m not saying never to buy anything new again. But rather, I’m saying that I think if we could buy self discipline, we would. In other words, we need to make the switch from thinking buying something is the answer. We need to realize how much we can actually accomplish with what we already have. It’s part of being a good steward and being resourceful with what we have. We can practice creativity and bring new life and energy to what we have to do!
When you use what you have it shows God that you are grateful. It is like taking the talent you have been given and turning it into more. Look around and really consider what you want to enhance, change, or refresh and then ask God to inspire you right where you are. It is exciting to see God work and direct us!
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. Keep reading: https://www.theamericanlady.com/