Money Plan: 5 Ways Why Spending Less Leads to Living More

Does spending less lead to living more? Is that really true? Well, it depends who you ask. I'm wondering what having less really means to you. What it means for me is that I'll have less clutter and stuff to worry or think about, which really translates to greater focus on what really matters in my life.

For example, my car is now 12-years old and still runs great. My house is filled with items I really enjoy and not filled with lots of things I thought I couldn't live without. Of course, my car has a few more dings and nicks than it used to when it was in it's prime, but I know that if it were brand new, I'd be overly protective and pre-occupied with keeping it immaculate and this wouldn't fit with my lifestyle. Now, I only need to be sure it's washed every month, waxed once a year and taken in for scheduled maintenance. Oh, did I mention, no car payment for years! That sure is more!

What about you? Do you buy things because you really feel you'll enjoy them? Or do you tend to accumulate stuff because it was "on sale" and in a few months realize that all it really does is clutter up your life, deplete your energy and reduce your cash flow? Take a day to clear out all the energy drainers in your life. Look at what sucks up your energy and either sell it in a yard sale or donate it. It's good to purge the things that don't bring you joy or benefit you in any way. Do this at least once a year--you could make a little money in the process!

I have a relative that has lots of little knick-knacks all around her house. There was a time when she really enjoyed them but now feels they take up her time and energy. She often feels overwhelmed with how much time it takes to clean around all of her decorations. Having fewer decorations would actually free up energy for her to focus on the things she truly loves and enjoys in her life.

Ask yourself these five questions to help you understand why less is more:

-- Are there areas in your life where you spend that later just become energy drainers? Maybe it's a closet full of clothes you don't wear, household decorations or piles of toys for your kids. -- What areas do you spend that if you stopped would mean you'd have more money or time? -- Are there times you spend money because you're unhappy somewhere else in your life?
-- What would spending less really mean for you?
-- How would spending less benefit your relationships?

Spending less often means more time to focus on creating a more meaningful relationship with someone you love, more time with special friends, or more time to work on your dreams and goals. Having less doesn't mean there is something missing. It's quite the contrary. Less really means more. Try it and you'll see!

What times in your life have you felt most happy and joyful? Was money involved?

Here are some examples of when less is more:

-- Less shopping, more time for you and those you love
-- Less spending, more money for retirement
-- Less stuff, more time and energy for what you really love! -- Less debt, more freedom and choices
-- Less time focusing on what other people are doing, more time for you and your financial goals
-- Less financial chaos, more peace and happiness
-- Less financial doubt, more confidence! -- Less dancing with your financial fears, more financial success!

Let less be more in your life. As for my 12-year old car, I hope she makes it to 20!