Repurposed Furnishings; Repurposed Attitudes
by Linda Griffith, The Organized Option
If you’re a regular reader of mine, you know I love to repurpose used office furniture and new kitchen pantries for use in sewing and craft rooms. It just takes determination and creativity to give new life to old furnishings.
Well, it’s the same thing with people and our attitudes. I learned a long time ago that we, as individuals, make the decision as to whether or not we’re miserable. We can choose to react to situations and negative people, or we can keep our reactions focused on what is within our own control.
I want to tell you a wonderful story of how my 83-year-old mother has “repurposed her attitude”. My delightful mom has always been quick to laugh and share in the fun around her, but I don’t recall her creating her own fun. In other words, she never put herself first, and I know this is the philosophy of her generation (saying yes when she really wants to say no). Over the years, we’ve had many discussions about the importance of setting boundaries, and I know it’s been sinking in. She’s even become more accepting of young mothers taking time to go bowling with friends, for example. Well, if my mother could bowl, she’d be throwing strikes right now.
My mom is actually learning to toss her inhibitions aside, and flirt with the men at her independent living facility. My mother! Go figure . . . when she laughs now, they’re true belly laughs. Her sense of humor has become wickedly funny. As to what changed, I don’t know. Maybe she’s finally taken my tip about adding a small amount of organic apple vinegar into her daily water intake (or maybe she’s decided she doesn’t want to be a widow anymore). Regardless, I’m all for it. Positive attitudes equate with charisma, and we’re all drawn to magnetic people. I’m very proud of my mom’s repurposed attitude. Just like with repurposed furnishings, a little determination and creativity can breathe new life into people, as well.
Linda Griffith, owner of The Organized Option, is a Professional Organizer & Speaker based in Phoenix, AZ. Linda helps sewers, crafters and home-based business owners achieve clutter-free, efficient work areas and regain their lost creativity. A national speaker, Linda's presentations blend practical how-to organizing tips with motivation and humor. She is also a regular columnist on organizing topics for The Country Register. Linda can be reached at (480) 755-3991, or through her website, www.organizedoption.com, where you can sign up for her FREE monthly e-newsletter.