The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life Is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store

by Cait Flanders

Up to this point, some of the things I learned to love most about myself had only become evident when I was changing my life. Digging myself out of debt showed me how much determination I had. Living on a tight budget proved I could be more resourceful. Taking control of my health confirmed I was, in fact, in control of my body and my mind-set. Not drinking alcohol continued to teach me I didn’t need to be under any influence to have—or be—fun. And giving up shopping for a year demonstrated I had more willpower than I thought, and I was happier when my attention wasn’t focused on what I could acquire. Each of those challenges forced me to adjust my habits and push myself outside of my comfort zone. I had different concerns and fears during each one, but many of those stemmed from the same thing: change, and the uncertainty that comes with it. Quitting my job and working for myself would be no different, but I was ready for it.