Did you take a closer look at your closet as a result of last week’s message? I recently had a ruthless purging of mine. It was difficult letting go of some of the pieces, for the same reasons I shared with you: I didn’t realize I was carrying around “yeses” from the past and the emotional ties that were there.
It has been over four and a half years since I resigned my financial advisor position from the firm that had purchased my book of business in 2006. The transition as an owner of a Registered Investment Advisory firm to an employee of a larger organization had been great for me and my clients. I moved on in 2010 only because I had uncovered my larger purpose in life – to coach others to realize their goals.
One day I was an employee and the next day an entrepreneur, again. No change required in my closet; I had far bigger things on which to focus! And so it remained until just a few months ago, when the closet became overstuffed as I was adding new pieces in a softer suiting style next to my suits from days past.
I was no longer wearing the suits yet reluctant to give them up. I could hear my Aunt’s voice “You always need a good interview suit.” My most recent interview occurred via video for a testimonial of the recent Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach training I attended. I pulled out a suit jacket to wear and as I studied my reflection in the mirror, I realized the suit no longer fit. Not in size; it no longer fit who I was. I ditched the jacket for a more comfortable, yet professional look.
In the purging process I came across pieces from one of my favorite designers. The pieces still look great and fit well, yet they no longer fit my work life. Out they go.
Out go casual pieces as well. Some I have worn and worn and am just done with. Others were great bargains at the store yet became expensive items as I wore them very little. Sad t-shirts and well-worn exercise wear – gone as well.
What a wonderful feeling when I finished. There before me was a closet full of wonderful clothes that I enjoy and make me feel good when I wear them. The relics from my previous work life were gone and things felt lighter and fresher.
Making this whole process somewhat easier, particularly for the suits, is my “goodwill” closet. Items removed from my daily-use closet go to the goodwill closet. It gives me the opportunity to adjust to the change and, if I find the need, reclaim an item from the past. I have yet to do so.
What needs purging in your life and what could serve as your goodwill closet?