Do I love it is my new mantra. The question I ask myself before I buy, eat or do anything. Do I love these shoes? Do I love this red velvet cupcake? Or do I love fitting into my jeans more? It’s a simple question, but one that packs quite a punch.
I spend way too much time doing things I don’t love or spending money on things I don’t love. Sure, there are some things you must do or buy even if you don’t love them. But I also gave away too many clothes with the price tag attached to Goodwill or stared at knick knacks that I had no idea why I bought. Basically, the things that I spent my time, money and energy on that left me stuffed and still empty.
Since I started doing this, my shopping habits have approved significantly. I was never reckless with my money, but I still spent any extra cash on lots of meaningless stuff. Now I live a simpler life. I spend my money on things I love—buying books, going to the movies or brunch with friends and exploring new restaurants.
I still struggle when it comes to my eating habits; I tend to eat whatever I want. And I’ve spent way too much of my money and calories on subpar food that added pounds to my belly and emptied my pocket book. So darn it, I’m only spending my money and calorie allowance on yummy food. And yes, I do need to ask myself when I start eating a little recklessly—which do I love more—the food or fitting into my clothes?
Sometimes I struggled in the past to make decisions that felt right and honored me. But asking myself whether I love it—helps guide me to the right decision.