Out With the Old, in With the New (Year)

Tonight is New Year's Eve and like most of us I do have goals set for the coming year. My two main goals are:
-To live simply
-Increase my stockpile
Yes, I know those two seem mutually exclusive- How can you live simply when you have a stockpile of goods? Actually both work beautifully together because in order to achieve both, you need to get rid of junk. Well how do you know when something is junk? When you don't use it very often can be a clue, when it's outlived its usefulness, and when it costs you money...especially when it costs you money. There are some people in this world who actually pay to store their junk that they don't use anymore and that's what we should all try to avoid. Now what about my stockpile? Well, a stockpile should consist of CONSUMABLE goods that have a high turnover rate.
Now, how will I achieve both? Well to live simply, I follow this rule- ONE IN, TWO OUT. That means if I purchase one item, I have to get rid of two items. For example, if I purchase a new shirt, I have to donate two shirts to the salvation army. This method not only helps keep the clutter down, but it keeps the spirit of giving alive.
A couple of articles that have inspired me are:
The Essentials of a Well-Balanced Wardrobe
The Minimalist's Guide to Fighting (and Beating) Clutter Entropy

So what about stockpiling? Well now since I have space to store all of my grocery goods I try to stock up on things that I know are non-perishable and will get used often and I try to keep a three month's supply of them (because it's only me and my sweetheart).
Here are a couple of articles that have helped me:
How to Stockpile Food
How to Create a Stockpile of Food- for Little Money

Once you start doing these things you may also notice a change in your life. I know that's what I want to continue in the coming year. Already when I de-clutter I feel wealthier and when I stockpile I feel less worried. So my wish for all of you in the coming new year is for Peace and Prosperity. HAPPY NEW YEAR!