There’s trash everywhere.
There’s plenty of trash going around, mucking up the landscape and filling
garages.
Your imagination is the
limit. While there’s some money to be made reselling items that are found for
little or no cost, you’ll really take it to the next level if you transform
that old object into something new. It’s just a matter of figuring out what
that is, doing it and getting your reward for being so clever.
Everyone has had one of
those moments when inspiration strikes and it all becomes clear. It is in the
cultivation of these moments that we begin to optimize the creative process.
Perhaps a good way to start
assessing your goals in this adventure is to examine what motivates you.
Are you moved by the sight
of an object that’s been given a new and clever life doing something completely
different? Do you look at other peoples’ trash and imagine how much space will
be saved in the landfill if you can rescue it from that fate?
Perhaps you are motivated to
have these practical skills in place before an economic downturn. Maybe your
parents’ or grandparents’ Depression-era thriftiness rubbed off on you.
Be it practical or
ideological, your motivation is what’s going to keep you going when you hit
bumps in the road. If you really believe that you’re doing something really
good or worthwhile, inspiration will come more easily.
Everyone is good at
something. No matter your talent, you can find a way to use it to your
advantage given the wide-ranging nature of trash. Even if you don’t think
you’re particularly good at anything, just think about the things you feel good
about accomplishing because you’re good at them. There is always a way to apply
your talents to the transformation of an object from a disposal problem into an
income stream.
There are more resources
around you than you’ve realized before. Most people don’t realize what they
have to hand until they take an inventory. Moreover, your friends and family
will likely want to help out in any way they can, especially if it takes no
effort on their part.
Treat him or her right, and
your spouse will likely wind up helping you, too. Not only will you find your
productivity doubles with your very first “employee,” but also your combined
energy will make every transformation easier.
You may already have the
perfect workspace set up in the basement or shed. Your 17 years as a retailer
of fine teas may give you just the insight you need to serve a niche market.
That basket weaving class you took in junior college may come in handy when
fashioning your new creations. Don’t overlook any of your skills or assets.
Most of all - have some fun!