Join me on a journey towards a simple, sustainable and meaningful life. Throughout November we will be exploring each category of the A-Z guide to a simple, sustainable and meaningful life. Today we’re looking at Q… Quality.
This guide has been written from the point of view of someone living with chronic illness but the topics and concepts discussed are relevant to everyone and anyone.
Q is for Quality
Quantity vs Quality… In this day and age lots of people seem to go for quantity, but if we’re truely aiming for a simple and sustainable lifestyle it’s much better to aim for quality.
Quality time with family and friends.
Make sure you take the time to actively listen and talk to those around you. You may not have a lot of time or energy, especially if you have a chronic illness, so use what you have wisely.
Find ways to do meaningful activities with those who are important to you. For me, that used to be lots of hiking and outdoor activities. These days it’s more board games, watching movies together, short walks and meals.
Quality items – clothes, furniture, toys, cars, house.
I feel it’s better to spend a bit more up front to buy something quality that will last you longer than to buy something cheaper that will need to be replaced a lot quicker.
In my wardrobe, at least half my clothes are quality vintage items that have already lasted me 2+ years (after being 2nd hand already) and will last at least another 2.
In our house, we buy quality furniture that will be suitable and should last most of our lives. Hardwood bedroom set, dining set, entertainment unit, and coffee tables, leather couches, and toys like Lego which are durable and timeless (and surprisingly a good investment!).
Quality activities – outings, work, events.
Make sure what ever events, work and activities you participate in fit with your values and/or adds value in your life by some way.
Given my current limitations my time is divided between work, health, and social activities. I’d say 8-20 hours a week are spent on work activities including working on sustainability projects for local councils, doing greenhouse gas assessments for companies, writing this blog, and working with my husband on the pictures for the Foggy Frog and the Pain Gang picture book (which I’m excited to say the electronic version should be out for Christmas!). A further 1-4 hours are spent on health related activities – appointments, stretches, etc. Finally, 1-10 hours a week are spent on social activities with my family and friends. The remaining time is spent resting – either sleeping or in front of the tv.
How do you focus on Quality over Quantity in your life?