Live with Less Challenge

Since it seems that I have insomnia, I decided to watch an episode of Oprah I had recorded from last week. I don't normally watch Oprah, but caught the last minute or two of this particular episode and ended up recording the rerun in the middle of the night.

The show was about two families she challenged to "Live with Less" because they were so wasteful - of things, resources, and money - and their family relationships were suffering because of it.

At the beginning of the show, when they explained what the challenge was (TV for 1 hour a day, no computer, no video games, no eating out, 5 minute showers, etc.), I thought to myself, "Yeah, right!" There's no way I'm trying that.

However, as the show progressed, I began to realize how wasteful I have become and how much money I might be able to save by implementing revised versions of these "rules."

I'm notorious for having multiple electronics on at the same time, leaving lights on in several rooms, leaving my printer, shredder and computer on, and taking really long showers. I also tend to buy things I THINK I need, when I really just want it.

So, I decided that I'm going to start living with less...(which, if you know me, is going to be extremely difficult, especially since I'm not working right now and spend most of my day at home!)

• Turn off lights and fans when I leave a room - and keep fan use to a minimum - open windows instead, especially in the evening
• Unplug/turn off laptop and other electronics when not in use
• Take 5 minute showers
• One hour of TV or internet each day (I can't really give up my computer since my business and advising job involve the required use of the programs)
• No eating out and no fast food (this should help with the weight loss too!)
• Don't buy anything except food, necessary household items, and stuff for the wedding
• Run all errands in one day, once a week
• Exercise at least three times a week outside (I threw this in since I'm supposed to be working on losing weight and I can get outside and get some fresh air and not use those dumb equipment machines I don't really like anyway)

There's the list! I have a feeling I'm going to be finding myself much more productive and having more quality time to spend with John (instead of just watching TV or movies with him).

I'm trying my challenge for 30 days - June 15 through July 15. From the experiences the families had on the show, I have a feeling it will continue on longer than that, but that's my goal.

I will try to write about my experiences at least every other day, though my goal will be once a day (and I'll write first in Word, then copy and paste once I'm online, so I don't break my rules!).

Wish me luck and feel free to ask me how it's going too! I need accountability!