Using What I Have!

View more tips in:

Everyday Life Featured Home

I came across a great tip recently that simply said, “Use up what you have.” I read it over and over again, because it was just so simple and gave me such a calm feeling that I vowed to give this a try.

I’ve made this simple tip a reality by beginning with the following areas.

1. Bathroom – I have what seems like a million products, either purchased by me or gifted to me by makeup counters or at events. I’ve decided to use what they have given me. I figure at the very least it will save me money for a few months and I could discover a great new find!

2. Closet – Certain items in my closet have found a permanent home without ever being worn. I have told myself over and over that I will eventually wear them, but then never do. With my new mindset, I’m trying to be more creative to incorporate these items into my life. (There was one item, with the tags still on, that I just really couldn’t see myself wearing, and so donation was the way to go). Overall, I feel great trying to switch up my wardrobe!

3. Kitchen – This is a great area to really apply this mindset, especially before items go bad. The other day, I noticed that my eggs were one day from expiring so I decided to make hard-boiled eggs. Challenging yourself to use the can of soup you have had forever in a recipe is a fun way to make a new meal.

Overall by using what you already have I have found myself saving money, being a little more creative (in the kitchen and in my closet) and the best part about it is I feel great knowing I’m cutting down on clutter!

What other areas would work great here? I love hearing different ideas!

Posted by Kristen on Mar 17, 2010 print article e-mail to a friend

http://www.voicesinmymind.com Dee

I’ve been trying to be more aware of this lately, especially in the kitchen. I wouldn’t call myself a hoarder (well, not the tv show version anyway) but I do tend to stock up on things. For example, if I need to buy one can of diced tomatoes for a recipe, then I’ll just buy 2 so I have an extra on hand. I’m trying to get out of this habit by making a weekly meal plan using what we have before I make a trip to the store.
http://justamomandmore.blogspot.com melissa

yes yes yes. me too! and i’m trying to teach my children this too:):) great lessons to be learned here by both them and me!
http://www.frugal-mama.com Amy @ Frugal Mama

Excellent simple advice!
http://maldonadofamily-vanessa.blogspot.com/ Vanessa

Thanks for this awesome reminder. I need to work on that my self. I have to learn to use what I have!!
Ann

Great to see this article. I give you credit for sharing the thought. I’ve been doing this for a couple of months now and yes, it works. Especially
bathroom and kitchen products.
Pingback: The Ultimate Moving Checklist for Families — Frugal Mama
http://organisingmycrazylife.blogspot.com/ Tubbah

Great post! I’ve trying to do this with my food for a while now, but i always end up with a full weeks groceries and $100 down the drain, where really apart from bread and milk we could comfotably last at least a week or 2. Thanks for the reminder and maybe I can succeed this week