Mindset #4: Give as you receive

No, you didn't miss anything. And to be quite frank, I am not sure anyone is even reading this. But as my mental-health-crush Kara Lowentheil says, "keep taking massive action until you have what you want."

Side note: if you haven't caught on yet, I strongly identify as a feminist and mental health advocate, and these ideas deeply infuse my writing, thinking, and general outlook on life - including fashion. More to come later...

The reason I am starting with number 4 is that some of the mindsets require more time and attention than others. Some are merely musings of my mind and others I want to provide facts, statistics, and perspectives different than my own. While fast fashion is the first and perhaps the most important mindset, it is equally as important to not get ahead of myself and to be patient with what is to come.

The following is a "mere musing" with my thoughts on the cycle of thrifting. This was also deeply inspired by a conversation I had with my brilliant sister yesterday.

4. Give as you receive.

In order for secondhand style to even exist, we must honor the cycle of thrifting. I have benefitted greatly from the generosity of other amazing women and want other women to experience the joy of finding THAT ITEM they can't believe is at a thrift store. (The other day I brought home a Valentino sweater from my clothing swap store). In order for people to find amazing items, others need to donate amazing items.

The practice of non-grasping or non-attachment comes to mind, a Buddhist virtue leading towards freedom and enlightenment known in Sanskrit as aparigraha. It teaches us to take only what we need, keep only what serves us in the moment, and to let go when the time is right.

I have had several items over the years that I loved so deeply, found so unique but for whatever reason did not fit my lifeSTYLE with perfection. Yet I held onto them so tightly. I have lost and gained weight, changed careers, gotten a dog - which DOES require thought about what to wear -, gotten older, and my style is ever evolving. Just because I don't wear something does not mean it is garbage. Just because something is awesome does not mean I should be the only person with access to it. In fact, quite the opposite. Why should something beautiful sit in my closet? I can almost guarantee that many of you have something hanging right now that you're "saving" and haven't worn yet. Wear it or donate it.

Action item: As you get dressed over the next few weeks, start paying attention to what is in your closet - DEEP in your closet. No need to do anything quite yet. Simply start noting items as well as how often, if at all, they are getting worn.

stay conscious