What criteria do you use to make decisions?
I've been asked about this twice in the past week in very different circumstances.
1. Stuff--how do you make decisions about the stuff you surround yourself with? Clothes, furniture, knickknacks, papers, etc. How much is too much? What to keep and what to let go of?
For instance, do you follow the clothes replacement rule? When you purchase a new item of clothing, do you let go of a corresponding item already in your closet? Or do you just add to the stockpile until you have so many clothes you can't possibly wear them all, let alone care for and maintain them in a wrinkle-free manner?
When I think about the stuff in my life, I try to remember it's only
things. Those things need to be functional and beautiful (in my eyes, anyway). No one else thinks my first knitted item is either useful or pretty, but it makes me smile! What would I really miss if everything went up in flames? Not much, except pictures. I have a number of items which beloved friends have given me. After a while, I may take a picture, keep the sentiment (and the friend) and pass the item along to someone who can use it. I think of it as passing along the blessing.
2. Life choices---What factors do you consider when making life decisions? For example: choosing a college major, making a career change, deciding where to live?
Do you make a list of the pros & cons? Talk to people? Pray? Fret & worry? Go with your gut?
I have made a number of major life changes and they aren't easy, but they are necessary for a vital, flourishing life! I tend to gather all the info possible, make the lists, talk to others, pray a lot, and listen to my instinct. I call it
following the Spirit. I try not to procrastinate and to realize that discernment is a
process. That's it. Life is a journey. What's important are the people you meet along the way, not things.
