What’s going on?
For the few that follow this - which is not many… Here is what I’ve been geeking on lately:
I’ve been reading up on some the concepts of “stuffitice” and “consumerism”. I’ve also been studying time management techniques and reading a lot of personal finance blogs. So, my challenge for myself from now until the end of the year is to gain a more streamlined lifestyle. It all ties together like this: the more hobbies that require stuff, the more stuff I collect. Each piece of “stuff” eventually requires time and money, thus taking me away from spending time with the two most important kids in the world - Jonny and Molli. So, do I want the stuff? Guess not. Time management & personal finance goals accomplished in one shot.
Since collecting “stuff” had become a way of life for me, I am determined to set forth on a different path. Here’s the short term plan:
- I own 4 guitars. I am a drummer. Why? Selling my Tacoma dreadnought, Fender Strat, and Martin Backpacker to fund one Art & Lutherie “Ami”
- I’m selling the super beetle. ok, this is my dream car. But, why have two cars? I have realized I don’t have the time to spend restoring it, nor do I want to spend the money. I can already tell, this one’s gonna hurt a bit :(
- I own 3 complete drumsets. EEK. I have plans of sending one to my parents house, but they have “stuffitice” worse than me. At least one kit has to go.
- Lots of CDs - trying to import them into iTunes has become a chore. A big chore! Once done, the CD’s are going to a used CD place.
- which to keep - Piano or Keyboard? not sure yet…
- recognizing duplicate items in my life and getting rid of them
My inspiration:
Last time I was out in Phoenix visiting family, my brother-in-law got me reading www.getrichslowly.org which led me to www.earlyretirementextreme.com. The latter blog is more severe, but like many Catholics (a corrupt empire which I have long since abandon), I am picking and choosing with the viewpoints.
Stay tuned and I will try to give some updates as I take action!