OK, I am doing an experiment. For years I have been driving luxury cars. Currently I drive a Mercedes but I am turning in my Lease on June 1st, and for the first time in YEARS, I will not be replacing it.
I live in Cherry Creek (a suburb of Denver) and I am literally walking distance from everything I need. I also work from home, so commuting isn't an issue. Why do I even own a car? It just makes no sense. Now, I am not a radical. My husband owns a car and I realize if we want to get to places that are farther than 5 miles away we will need something. But for the everyday errands and stuff, I just need a break.
So I decided that I would turn in my leased MB and take the summer off of owning a car. Here what will happen:
1. I will save $4,000 over the course of 4 months (car payment, insurance and gas)
2. I will do my little part in helping our environment by driving less
3. I will get into better shape (walking and riding a bike when I used to drive)
4. My stress level will go down (if you have never been in the car with me in traffic you can't imagine how it stresses me out)
and last but not least
5. I will take the focus off what I am driving and put it on who I am as a person.
This is a big one, and the reason I am calling the blog vanity plate - an experiment in humility. I have come to the realization that I have put who I am below what I have. This is NOT good, for anyone, but I can't be responsible for anyone but myself. So here I go, on a journey to relinquish my need for luxury items. Won't you come along with me?
About Me
- Kristen
- I am a Business and Life Coach with Building Champions. I was raised in Atlanta, GA and moved to CO 16 years ago. I am married and have 2 step children.
seriouly impressed ! I look forward to your discoveries along the way....hmmm wonder what you will end up purchasing at the end of 4 mos???
ReplyDeleteJody
Maybe I won't buy a car at all??? Thanks Jody, I hope you are doing well.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool experiment Kristen. It is so easy to get wrapped up in what we have/don't have instead of who we are! I look forward to reading your posts.
ReplyDeleteI think this is an experiment with some nobility. The last paragraph is the key. I wish you exciting discoveries!
ReplyDeleteMe and my 1998 Lexus with 160,000 miles will follow you...You are saving more than 1,000 a month. A mercedes is not cheap to maintain, either...
ReplyDeleteJohn, I would think that the Lexus you own would be considered a luxury car? Hmm, jump on in John :-) Thanks for the post. Keep following.
ReplyDeleteLove this Kristen! In 2007 I prepared for impending motherhood by trading in my BMW for a Honda Pilot. Yes, I still have to drive a car to get me to work, Riley to preschool, etc., but I can't tell you how liberating giving up the "status car" was. The Honda is already almost paid off, and we're saving so much in car payments, we've already agreed to just drive it for as long as it runs and continue to save $. This lesson has leaked over into other areas of my life. My shopping habits have changed (for the better) and we have switched to renewable/sustainable resources for many of our household necessities. So yes, your experiment in humility is so much more than just giving up your car. I'm looking forward to hearing all about your journey!
ReplyDeleteYes, it's true that you'll actually contribute a lot to the environment if you don't have a car. Plus, it will totally help you fit by doing such exercise. However, if you think the benefits a car can give, then you'll actually have this to consideration. Let's face it: having a car is very important. It can actually save you a lot of trouble in the near future if you'll decide on going more than 5 miles away from your home.
ReplyDelete