Stop buying the unnecessary and live a fuller life.
Since 2016 I've been cutting things out my life.
Have I lost anything? No
Do I feel less valuable as a person? No
Do other people view me differently? Not really...
Buying less things is not necessarily easy. It's different for different people. There are a lot of things I used to, excuse the pun, buy into... the culture and society that upholds this culture is one of them. This is a journey, for everyone, and although I have cut down on things, I know I could do more. Nobody is perfect, sometimes I find myself wanting to buy that pretty cushion, or a warm jumper, which is why I feel cutting down is more realistic than cutting out.
3 things I cut down on buying
Clothes. I've never been into fashion but I did fall into the trap of buying new, and often buying cheap. If I need new clothes now, I buy second hand or attend clothes swaps, and I love it! It's cheaper, fun and you're likely to find unique items. I used to buy clothes from ASOS, a few items at a time, and regularly. Often items would end up unused, given to charity or a friend. What's the point? I hate to think how much money I wasted on items I clearly did not need.
Candles. I love candles. Who doesn't? They are soothing, relaxing and beautiful. But I realised I do not need these, and I certainly do not need to buy several a year. I stick to only using them in Winter, for those cosy nights in and I'm conscious to only burn them when I really feel like a candle is called for.
Make up and skincare products. This was also hard, because I loved that scene. Trying new products, reading about them, watching YouTubers give reviews, and taking the time to clean and make up my face, but I don't do that anymore. I gradually cut down, I have more time, use more natural things, have a simpler routine, go out without make up, especially in the summer, and only buy what I need when I need it. Nothing extra. I go for organic and cruelty free as much as possible, and although it does take time to do the research, all round, it's going to lead to money better spent.
With all these examples, I've found over time, I've bought less and less. It would be a lie to say I never buy them, but I'd say getting 'better' at having less over 4 years means I've reached a point where I can say I hardly ever buy these items. If I do, it's just more of a need now, and never a want.
Things I still buy and why I believe in buying them
I still buy 4 things regularly: books, plants, magazines, and presents for people.
Books, because of education! Reading other people's stories gives you knowledge of experiences you might not have in your life and I think this is undeniably valuable. When I feel I have got all I can from a book, and no longer need it, I give it to a friend as a present, which this makes me take care of it better, and ensure I'm paying love and care forward. During lockdown I bought more books simply because the libraries and second hand shops were closed. I am a member of my local library, they are amazing places, so if you can, make this your main go to for books, and when you want to buy one, make sure it's because you really want it; it's a specific title you are interested in. Otherwise, second hand shops (when the pandemic is over and it's safe to shop normally again) are a dream.
Plants, because they clean our air, some absorb carbon dioxide better than others, are relaxing, and are great to learn about! Plants are living things, and by having plants in your home can make you feel closer to nature.
Magazines, because again, for education. I only buy beautifully considered independent publications and take great care of them. The market is one that is quite niche, and one I believe in supporting. They are not the mass produced international magazines you'll find in newstands like Vogue and Heat. For more on the magazines, you can go to the magazine section.
Presents for people, but only when necessary. Don't buy junk for people. Secret Santa is fun but it annoys the hell out of me for promoting cheap tat that will be unused, forgotten, and often, thrown away. Don't prop up the cheap and disposable market, buy with real care, or do as I do and give something you did buy for yourself, such as a book, but no longer need. .
Why is it so important?
Having less stuff is not only a cheaper way to live, it's less chaotic, minimising distraction, noise and quieting the mind. It's far more easier to decide what to wear if you have less clothes for example, and only investing in a small amount of things teaches you how to value everything you do own. I feel powerful when I make purchases and give it thought 'do I really need this', and if I do, I take greater care.
As with ever purchasing decision I now make, I try to look at the most ethical independent businesses who take the time and effort to be responsible and take care of the environment while operating. These are the businesses that deserve our money. I look at where they are based, how they operate and what precautions they have taken to limit their impact on the environment.
Asking these questions is key. You don't need to cut everything out in one go; it's not sensible to think you can go cold turkey on items you've been used to your entire life. Start slow, ease yourself into your journey, slip up, and fail, try again, and understand that it takes time to see real change in your personal spending habits, but starting with just one thing will probably lead to many others.
Good luck!
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