A Lesson in Balance

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As Mrinalini and Nirma sat down to share their latest shopping finds, Mrinalini casually remarked, “Nirma, why do you always overbuy? I wonder if you actually use all the clothes and groceries you stock up on. It seems like overspending, and that same money could go into savings or building assets for the future.”?

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Nirma, slightly defensive, replied, “I buy big packets because they’re cheaper per unit, so it’s not wastage—it’s saving. And as for clothes, I love wearing different outfits. What’s the point of earning if we can’t enjoy a little spending?”?

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Mrinalini nodded thoughtfully. “I understand your point, Nirma. But just think back over the past year or even three years—how much of what you bought did you really use? Don’t you often give away excess groceries or clothes because they expire or go out of fashion? Just something to consider.”?

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Nirma didn’t like the unsolicited advice, and it showed. She changed the topic, but her friend’s words lingered in her mind.?

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That evening, Nirma excitedly showed her shopping haul to her family. But instead of the enthusiasm she expected, her husband gently said, “Nirma, why so much again? We already have so many things piling up at home, and half of it isn’t even used. Do you remember those clothes you bought six months ago? I don’t think you’ve worn them yet. Maybe it’s time to slow down a bit?”?

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Her husband’s loving words echoed Mrinalini’s advice, and as Nirma lay in bed that night, she began to reflect. She remembered the baby clothes she’d bought for her kids that went unused because they’d outgrown them too quickly. She thought of the beautiful sarees sitting untouched in her wardrobe because she always opted for churidars in her rush.?

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The next morning, Nirma called Mrinalini. “You know, Mrinalini, yesterday I was defending my shopping habits, but after thinking it over, I realize you were absolutely right. I’ve been overspending on things I don’t even use. Thank you for pointing it out.”?

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Mrinalini smiled. “I knew you’d come around. So, now that you’ve realized it, what’s your plan to change this habit?”?

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Nirma laughed lightly, “I was hoping you could guide me on that too!”?

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Mrinalini chuckled. “Alright, let’s start simple. First, take stock of everything you already have—clothes, groceries, everything. Then, assess your actual needs for the next year. For clothes, for example, you could keep 15 everyday outfits and a few for special occasions. The rest, if they’re in good condition, can be donated.”?

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“That sounds like a big task,” Nirma admitted. “I don’t even know how much I have piled up!”?

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“Take it one step at a time,” encouraged Mrinalini.?

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Over the weekend, Nirma tackled the task. She sorted her clothes into categories: casual, office wear, and special occasions. She was shocked at how much she owned but never used. In the kitchen, she found large packets of snacks and groceries nearing expiration, untouched and waiting to be thrown away. By the end of the weekend, she felt lighter and more organized.?

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On Monday, Nirma sat with Mrinalini over breakfast. “Mrinalini, I can’t thank you enough! I feel so much better now that I’ve sorted everything. I’ve even decided to curb my impulsive shopping and focus on buying only what we need.”?

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Mrinalini beamed. “I’m so proud of you, Nirma! Now that you’ve taken the first step, it’ll get easier. And remember, I’m here if you ever need a nudge.”?

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That evening, as Nirma shared her weekend efforts with her husband, he smiled warmly and said, “I’m so proud of you, Nirma. This is such a positive change. Thank you for being open to reflecting on this—it’s inspiring for all of us.”?

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Nirma felt a deep sense of satisfaction. She’d not only learned an important lesson but had also taken steps to become more mindful and intentional. With a renewed sense of purpose, she vowed to maintain balance in her spending, saving, and living.