Sunday, February 22, 2009

Recession = Reprioritize

You know, I'm definitely not proud of this, but I used to be a little obsessed with "wants". I want a new pair of jeans, I want those hot boots, I want I want I want. Since the recession, I really feel like the focus on material possessions has shifted. I no longer waste time and energy on thinking about the things that I don't have. For the first time in my adult life, I don't feel that pressure to buy buy buy and have have have. You know what? It's a great feeling. Very liberating! I have almost completely stopped reading the fashion magazines that come every month, because they just aren't as interesting. Do you think it is a shift in my priorities? Or do you think I am finally, truly growing up?


I went wedding dress shopping with a good friend last week (we think she found her dress and it is AMAZING!). The dress shops that we went to were in a very upscale neighborhood in Chicago - took some pics to share with my blog-friends. I was really surprised, though, because most of the time I end up looking longingly in the window at these shops, and this time - I just wanted to get some good pics! I really wasn't even interested in the products for sale!



This represents a seismic shift in priorities for me, and I have to say, I'm really proud of myself. Tell me, how do you feel? Are you experiencing a similar transformation, or are you still addicted to retail? Don't feel bad if you are - I pass no judgements - and I'm definitely not ready to say I'll never get the retail itch again. I'm just enjoying this brief reprieve... :)

3 comments:

Ripper Arts said...

It isn't the recession so much for me, it is the shift in our priorities and our goal to "live our art" and support handmade. I think for you it is a little of both, in that AS you grow up, your priorities will change. :)

Additionsstyle said...

I much rather send my money on the work of a wonderful artist. An item that you know a lot of love went into creating it, so I don't miss shopping in any of those stores anymore.

tamara! said...

I think I have had the same thing happen to me lately too, and I'm not sure if it is growing up, the economy, or launching my illustration biz and getting really into etsy and the whole handmade revolution. Probably some combination of all of it. Whatever it is, my fashion magazines are sitting around getting dusty, too! Surreal.