The Fall Of Malls And How To Avoid The Same Fate

On a cold, snowy, winter day, I made the trip to the local mall to honor my commitment to get more steps in this year. It had been a while since I had been to the mall. In their heyday, malls were the epitome of American wealth and prosperity. Modern clean buildings, sporting the latest design and architectural fashion. Going to the mall was an event. I’m sure you remember those days.

It didn’t take me long to become aware that the mall was no longer in its glory days. The stores that were still there had more open floor space than merchandise. There had been little to no improvements in the last 20 years. Many of the iconic names were gone. They were replaced by mom and pop stores, if at all. The glorious mall, while still hanging on, was feeling more and more like a flea market or secondhand shop.

Malls are closing all over America at an alarming rate. The ones that are still around, for the most part, are on life support. It made me think – What are the things in my life I am still holding onto that are no longing serving me or my life’s mission well? Like the mall, they were once a big part of our lives, but now have outlived their usefulness. Once we let them into our lives they tend to stay unless we intentionally get rid of them. It could be a job that no longer challenges you. It could be a home or office that looks as dated the mall.

My challenge to you is to spend some time reflecting on this idea. If you find a mall or two in your closet, board them up and move on. It will be a blessing to you and everyone around you.