"There is too much stuff in this house!" Most of us have had this thought while hunting furiously for something and then we promise to buy less on all future shopping trips. But having things and getting things can be a hard behavior to change. As solid waste professionals, this highlights an "R" that we are teaching our communities about: Refuse!
Making an effort to refuse additional "things" is not only a good way to help reduce what ends up in the waste stream, but having less helps us feel less stressed and more free to enjoy time with others, according to the theories of James Wallman, author of the book, Stuffocation. In fact, he promotes "Experientialism" (sharing experiences) as a replacement for acquiring things. More on Wallman's ideas below.
Whether it is a new concept like "Stuffocation," "Refuse," or "Repurpose" or the basics of "Reduce-Reuse-Recycle," we can help keep your community informed and educated about local solid waste management programs. Contact me to learn more about how we can help you deliver your message.
Now, let's all go clean out a closet and then share a walk with a friend!
Elizabeth Roe Eco Partners
317-450-3346
eroe@ecopartnersinc.com
Do you Suffer from Stuffocation?
Try replacing your stuff with experiences!
Have you looked for something you need, but been unable to find it amongst the clutter of all the other things that you own? Does all that clutter cause you to feel stressed, depressed, and overwhelmed?
You may be suffering from a condition author James Wallman calls "Stuffocation" in his book by that name. And, according to Wallman, you are not alone. He writes:
"Instead of thinking of 'more' in positive terms, as we once did, we now think 'more' means more hassle, more to manage, and more to think about."
As the movement of tiny houses and minimalism takes root, Wallman outlines the next big thing to come in our economy and culture: Experientialism. Instead of focusing on acquiring things, we will focus on enjoying experiences with others. Experiences, shared or not, make for better conversation than simply telling people what you've purchased. Read a brief review of Wallman's book on our blog.
Photo credit: @iStock.com | Eileen Hart
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