Inch By Inch, Life's A Cinch - Mile By Mile, Life's A Trial!

July 05, 2012

Sometimes when we want to make a change, "forever" seems too daunting, so we just don’t even try. Mary Carlomango shows us another way in her book Give It Up! My Year of Learning to Live Better with Less. It’s the same principle our parents used when we had a new food; just try a few bites.

Carlomango spends a year journaling her experiences, giving up various items and habits cold turkey for one month. For one month each, the author gives up alcohol, shopping, elevators, newspapers, cell phones, dining out, television, taxis, coffee, cursing, chocolate, and multi-tasking. 

I tested the theory by giving up my beloved Diet Coke for one month. I can’t say it was easy, but I did succeed for the whole 30 days! (Yeah, me!) I returned to drinking my Diet Coke, but with a new appreciation of the choice I was making. I’m thinking next on my list might be decorating magazines – but that could be my toughest challenge yet. 

I wonder if Carlomango’s "one month" theory could apply to starting a new habit such as exercise or flossing? Maybe, I’ll have to give that a try…..but just for a month!

Terri B.
Blue Springs South Branch