Freebies

I love ‘em and I hate ‘em.

On the one hand, free stuff is great. Samples from a brand representative at a downtown transit stop during rush house are a good intro to a new product. Grocery food samples make a nice snack. Hotel shampoo is convenient. T-shirt giveaways are fun.

However, I’d be a rich lady if I had some free cash for every time I’ve heard a friend or client say about an unused item, “but I got this for free.” If it’s an unflattering garment, why keep it? If it’s a snack that doesn’t taste good, what are you holding on to it for? If you’re getting rid of unwanted things you had to buy, why keep the thing you didn’t even pay for?

Last summer, I cheered on my friend who ran in a half marathon. The finish line area included booths handing out food freebies. I got this iced coffee drink that looked good, drank it and spit it out. I’m grateful to the company for helping me decide not to clutter my pantry space with this icky product! On the other hand, I ran in a number of races myself this summer. The “free” shirt included in the race registration fee is great for running practice, and I’m glad to keep it in my t-shirt drawer.

If you still have freebies that haven’t been eaten, worn, used, or passed on, then I challenge you to toss or donate them instead.