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We live in a world where it is too easy to click "buy now."
When something breaks, our first thought is usually: Let me just throw this away and order a new one.
Buying new is fast. Buying new is easy. But always buying new steals a very quiet, simple joy from our lives: The joy of fixing it.
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Today, let's talk about why using your hands to repair something is one of the best things you can do for your mind, your wallet, and your family.
The "Buy It New" Trap
When we throw away everything that breaks, we learn a bad habit. We learn that things do not have value. We learn to replace instead of repair.
But fixing something changes how you feel about it.
Here is what happens when you decide to fix something instead of throwing it in the trash:
1. The Joy of Saving Money
Every time you glue a broken shoe, sew a torn shirt, or fix a leaky pipe, you keep money in your pocket. A $5 bottle of glue can save you from buying a $50 pair of shoes. That is money you can save for your freedom.
2. The Joy of Learning
You do not need to be an expert. You can learn how to fix almost anything on YouTube for free. Every time you fix something new, you make your brain work in a new way.
3. The Joy of Pride
Think about the last thing you bought. You probably felt happy for five minutes. Now, think about something you built or fixed with your own hands. You feel proud every single time you look at it.
The Lesson for Our Kids
If you are a parent, fixing things is a superpower.
When your child's favourite toy breaks, do not rush to the store to buy another one. Sit down with them. Get some tape or glue. Fix it together.
When you do this, you are teaching them a massive lesson without using any big words:
You teach them patience.
You teach them that things have value.
You teach them that we do not give up on things just because they are broken.
(And if you teach them that about toys, they will learn to treat people the same way).
The 15-Minute Fix Rule
You do not have to fix everything. Some things really are totally broken. But try this simple rule:
Next time something breaks in your house, do not throw it in the trash right away. Give it 15 minutes.
Look closely at the broken part.
Search for one short video on how to fix it.
See if you already have the tools in your house.
If it takes too long or costs too much, you can still buy a new one. But you will be surprised how often a little bit of effort brings a broken thing back to life.
Stay simple, stay balanced.
See you next week.