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Last week I shared my contentment story. This week I am sharing the guidelines for this challenge with you. These are modified slightly from the original rules posted by Nancy Ray for her Contentment Challenge.
The Contentment Challenge : August 15, 2015-October 15, 2015
We will give up shopping for clothes, accessories, household decor, and “stuff” for 3 months, to focus our hearts and minds on the root of true contentment. We will actively pursue fulfilling activities that will replace our addiction to material things.
The Guidelines:
• For the next 10 days, your homework is the following: prepare your heart, organize your closet, and make any necessary purchases that you might need during these months. (This is not a last minute shopping spree! This is one final trip to the store for items you will need, and the opportunity for you to say your goodbyes to Target.)
• Choose 1-3 inspiring books to read during this time. Nancy recommended any of the following: Seven, Weird, The Celebration of Discipline, 1000 Gifts, Kisses from Katie. I am going to read Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, From Your Head to Your Heart: The Change You Are Looking For Is 18 Inches Away and The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands.
• Gifts are okay! If someone gives you a new dress or piece of decor during that time, receive it graciously! If you need to buy someone else a gift, by all means, do so. The point is not to be rude, but to learn more of ourselves and the Lord.
• Necessities are okay! If you drop and break your phone, please go get a new one! If you lose your glasses, buy a new pair. Just don’t start justifying new purchases for items that you already have. (“I really NEED this bathing suit, even though there are 8 in my closet already.”)
• You must actively pursue something – anything – that replaces your tendency to buy stuff. Begin thinking about something you love or a hobby you’ve always wanted to do, and make preparations to actually do it.
This is not about being perfect… This is about finding a place of contentment that is deeper than the “stuff” we surround ourselves with. Who is with me? I would love for you to join me in this journey and hold me accountable. Check back each week to follow along.