For the past few months, I have been writing on clearing out junk; both material possessions and soul-clutter. Most of the time this involves getting rid of things or attitudes weighing us down.

But sometimes instead of getting rid of something, we can re-purpose it. We can adapt.

According to Oxford Languages Dictionary, to “adapt” can mean:

• make (something) suitable for a new use or purpose; modify.
• become adjusted to new conditions.

Repurposing Stuff

When it comes to material possessions, if something that has outlived its purpose can be changed and used in a different way; you have just saved the environment by eliminating one more thing from a landfill.

I know what you’re thinking: “Jerralea, this is just an excuse to keep your junk instead of getting rid of it.”

Of course, that is a temptation. My earlier post, Keep Only What is Useful and Beautiful, addresses this situation. Repurposed junk is still junk if it’s not useful to me. I need to release it and let someone else find a purpose for it.

I want to focus on the second meaning of adapt, “becoming adjusted to new conditions.”

Re-prioritizing Schedules

Let’s say I’ve learned to practice saying “no” to every opportunity that comes down the pike. I’ve cleared my calendar of everything not essential to my callings. Now, there is more time. I have new conditions wherein I can schedule blocks of time to do the important things.

This causes me to become adjusted to the feeling of not being in a constant state of hurry.

I have time to just be. I can assume a listening posture during my prayer time and be open to what God might impress upon my spirit.

Rethinking Routines

For example, I found a new purpose for my Friday evenings. My previous routine had been to go immediately after work and get groceries on Fridays. I would visit at least two stores and it would take me approximately two hours. (I’m a slow shopper.)

Then I discovered making pick up orders. I make an order online buying only what is on my list; therefore, eliminating impulse buying. After work on Friday, I drive to the store and within 10 minutes – or less – the personal shopper has loaded my trunk with my goodies and sent me on my way. They will even put my cold stuff in my cooler for me. Easy-peasy!

I am already adjusted to this way of doing things and it is saving my life right now. Instead of being worn to a frazzle on Fridays, I can enjoy my evening and be rested up to tackle my Saturdays.

Sharing what works

Is there something you can adapt or modify in the way you do things to save you time and energy? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment and share.

Hey! I’m on a journey. I don’t pretend I’m doing all this perfectly. I’m sharing the goals and dreams I have in my heart in this series, “A Rich and Satisfying Life.”  This is my twenty-first post of examining a life free from the clutter of both wrong thoughts, attitudes, expectations, and too-full calendars, as well as physical clutter. You can click here to see all the links to the series.

This series is part of a Write28Days challenge sponsored by Anita Ojeda. The challenge is now over, but I am still working at the goal of writing 28 times on my subject.

All photos created in PicMonkey by Jerralea using personal, family and stock photos. Please do not copy.

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