As I hit another milestone, turning 57 that is, I’m taking a moment to confess a part of my life that many of you may already know—yes, I was a shopaholic! Over the last 30 years, I amassed a collection of “precious collectibles” that I thought I needed… but realize I don’t. 🙃

The Great Decluttering Adventure

As I sifted through my belongings, I found myself parting with collectible watches, clothes, and other memorabilia. The goal is to retain only what is relevant and meaningful to me today.As a sentimental soul, it hasn’t been easy (believe me!), but I’ve learned that practice really does make perfect.

I have given myself five years to complete this process, as I need time to thoughtfully decide what items to pass along. I enjoy matching each item with a recipient whose interests or needs align with it—like when I gifted my French recipe book to a friend learning French and planning a trip to Paris.

For other pieces, especially those with unique history or value, I aim to find collectors on secondary markets who will truly appreciate them.

A Paul Frank Watch’s New Love Story

I recently sold my beloved Paul Frank watch on Carousel, a second-hand marketplace. The sweetest thing happened – the buyer wanted to refurbish it as part of a matching pair for him and his wife. Talk about a heartwarming twist! It’s not just about decluttering; it’s about giving these items a chance at a second life with someone who’ll treasure them as much as I did.

This gradual, intentional approach allows me to reflect on each item’s significance, making meaningful choices that honor both my memories and the item’s future use. I’m now in the second year, feeling more certain with each step about what truly matters.

Sole Sisters Getting a Second Chance

In the spirit of circularity, I also decided to invest in repairing my things rather than replacing them. I own a good number of shoes, many of which had fallen into disuse but still held sentimental value.

I took a pair of vintage favorites to a cobbler who sewed the mouth of the shoes rather than gluing it, and now, after a two-year gap, I can finally wear them again. These shoes have a new life, and so does my wardrobe. Each repaired item reinforces that comfort and functionality are what truly matter, far beyond brands or trends.

Embracing Second-Hand Finds

I’ve also been trying to shop more sustainably by buying secondhand clothes. I’ve found some amazing pieces at thrift stores and flea markets, including some beautiful summer dresses and blouses. It’s been a fun and rewarding experience to discover unique items that have a story to tell.

Moving Forward, One Year at a Time

I’m not trying to change the world overnight, but seeing how global production and consumption are depleting our planet’s resources really bothers me. My small steps toward circularity might not seem like much, but they’re my way of making a difference. Each year, I aim to become more mindful in my shopping habits and lifestyle choices.

Ultimately, I hope this journey inspires others to try circular living, even in small ways. It’s not about perfection or radical change. It’s about choosing what feels right and true to who we are and where we’re going. In a world of endless consumption, maybe we all have a part to play in honoring the life cycle of the things we cherish, both for ourselves and for our planet.

What about you? Have you started your journey towards a more circular lifestyle? I’d love to hear your stories and experiences in the comments below!