The words of a favorite writer, Brianna Wiest, were on my mind today while I was shopping in downtown Philadelphia. I had just heard her utter these words, “Start Where You Are, Use What You Have, and Do What You Can” on a podcast while I was walking. Her “Use What You Have” words kept me from making a few purchases today that I might otherwise have made. Most of these purchases would have been small ones, but small ones add up over time. As I struggled with my decision about one of these, I made another decision. That decision will help me in more ways than saving money.

The decision whether to purchase a box of English Breakfast Tea, was my greatest challenge while shopping today. It was only a $15 decision, at least on the surface. But taken in the larger context, it was a much bigger and potentially at least, more expensive decision. I decided that there was absolutely no reason to buy any more tea since I have plenty in my cupboard at home. So why was I tempted? Because I convinced myself that this particular tea was superior. I have no idea whether it is or not. But I did do a taste test. I ordered a glass of the tea and thoroughly enjoyed it. That almost convinced me to purchase it. But I didn’t. I told myself that it would be foolish to purchase more tea when I have plenty. With one caveat. I decided to go home and taste test the English Breakfast tea in my cupboard, and get rid of any that does not taste as good as that which I wanted to buy.

That same decision also helped me to not even be tempted to buy any of the other items I saw while shopping, other than a book. Yes, I have plenty of books, and since I bought a new one, when I get home, I will need to get rid of at least one book, since I have also decided that before I bring anything more in, at least an equal amount must go out. I am still trying to reduce the number and amount of my belongings, and this is one way to do so.

My “Use What You Have” plan really went into effect last week when I decided to not immediately replace a moisturizer/serum that I am out of and use some of the other like products I have. This is a difficult one for me since I am convinced that the product I just finished using is the main reason my complexion is in the good condition that it is. I actually have people make positive comments about my skin fairly often, and I attribute that to this particular product. But I decided that I should at least test this and try to use the other similar product that I have and see if there is a noticeable difference. It has been too easy for me to purchase what I want, failing to inventory what I already have. I am trying to change that.

Will these choices result in significantly more money in my pocket? Probably not. But I know that these changes will ultimately result in me making bigger changes, which over time, will result in changes I know I need to make. I will keep you posted.

Are there any similar changes that you want to make?