Purchases and the Art of Being Wrong

When it comes to purchases that create clutter, the art of being wrong does not come easily for most people. It’s often far easier to admit fault at other things. “Oh, I am so sorry I cut in front of you in line; I did not see you there.” But, take the issue of clutter and add responsibility in the mix paired with money and it gets awkward very quickly. It is difficult to say to one’s partner, “The restaurant quality food processer which you objected to because it cost a lot of money and you thought we didn’t need (but I proceeded to buy anyway), has actually gotten almost no use. You were right; it was not a wise purchase.” Gulp. Or if you are single, to simply admit to yourself “That thing I thought was such a great investment, turns out to just be just sitting around, unused.”

The new exercise equipment…that now acts like a clothes rack.

The adorable sock puppet…that now sits forgotten at the bottom of a toy bin.

The hot tub…that originally got a lot of use, but now is hardly ever cracked open.

The extra set of dishes…that remain in the cabinet.  

So many purchases we think are a brilliant and much needed addition to our lives turn out not to be utilized. Items loved in the moment, and then...not.  

There is no easy out on this. Admitting fault to either yourself or your partner is step number one. Consciously working to see if there is a pattern in purchases that create clutter is step number two. Really thinking about the potential long-term use of purchases before making them is step three.

Lastly, remember, no matter what the price, it’s not a “great deal” if it’s not going to be used!