014. Simplify Your Life. Do What You Love.

 

These two and I have recently become best friends. 

Written By: Ashley Solis 

About two months ago, I came across an inspiring article about living more simply. As soon as I finished this article, I wrote down on a blue post-it what I wanted my life to look like. This list included writing full-time, traveling, teaching classes, more yoga and other things that I find valuable. I felt calm, focused and more clear on my intentions for my life. 

A month later, I signed up for a writing class with Tammy Strobel, the same author whom wrote a book about simplifying her life and whom the above article is about. I have always enjoyed writing. Ever since graduating college, almost 2 years ago, I have done less and less writing. I needed to find a way to inspire my creativity. My sister and I have been contributing to this blog as a way to keep up with our love of writing. But at times I find that I have to force myself to write more. I tend to get distracted by Facebook,  Instagram, shows I have recorded, my extremely stressful job, and life in general.

I kept referring back to that article about living simply. One question that stuck out to me was, what do I "want" and what do I "need." Some may wonder, what's the difference? We all have the same basic needs, food, water, shelter, human connection and so-on. I thought, "What is one thing I could live without and also save money while doing so?" The answer was simple, cable. I do not need cable. I work for a non-profit and have noticed that money has been tighter than I am used to. Also, cable was becoming more and more of a distraction for me. I was not doing all of the things I wanted to. Instead of writing, I was getting sucked into watching marathons of "48 Hours Mystery."

On Wednesday, I cancelled my cable subscription. After being on hold for 15 minutes, a representative answered the phone. I told her I would like to cancel our cable. She asked with her scripted, "Is there something wrong with your cable connection or have you had any issues with the service?" I chose to give her the reason why, "No, it works fine. We decided that we want to save money and would like to spend our free time not watching TV." Her answer surprised me. She said, "My husband and I recently got rid of cable. We realized we were spending too much time watching TV. Now we read more, listen to music and even talk to each other, what a concept!" It was refreshing to hear her response. She's a salesperson, but a person first. We talked for about 10 minutes and she made the process simple and painless. It has been a few days and I do not miss it at all. I thought I was going to have some serious withdrawals. In reality, I have been writing more and focusing on that blue post-it. I am back on track.

This week's change, what is one thing that you do not need and can get rid of? What is your reason behind it? Is it wasteful? Saving money? Bettering yourself? Lifestyle change?