Petty Capitalist Pursuits

So odd, but it happens to almost everyone. You possess items that you no longer want, but you have a difficult time parting with them.

So, you decide to have a yard sale, and if you obtain even a few dollars you'll be satisfied.

From a time and cost standpoint, it is not a worthwhile pursuit. The few dollars that you receive over the course of the several hours setting up and conducting your sale do not justify the effort. Still, you feel good when you make a sale. This is what I call petty capitalist pursuits.

Invariably, you see someone selling items on eBay at giveaway prices, another example of petty capitalist pursuits. The seller simply wants to get rid of the items and almost any amount of money will suffice.

Some Satisfaction

Over the years, I’ve learned to avoid petty capitalist pursuits. It's faster and easier to donate items to PTA thrift shops and charitable groups. If you can identify a recipient who will appreciate your gift, such as a street person, and offer such items directly, that also works.

Petty capitalist pursuits are not wrong or unworthy. You experience psychological satisfaction that makes your efforts seem worthwhile, but beware. If you engage in such pursuits too often, eventually your time is consumed and you're not handling the larger items on your agenda.