No-Buy Rules for 2021
The constant process of decluttering and working towards a capsule wardrobe has helped me learn that casual shopping, while enjoyable in the moment, just leads to more stuff for me to manage at home. I want to put the extra effort into making wise purchases instead of organizing, cleaning, and otherwise maintaining more stuff. This year, I’m implementing no-buy goals to help me stay consistent and on track.
“Consumerism is a poverty mindset that says what you have is not enough - and in 2021, I’m not buying it!”
motivation
While it’s fun temporarily to buy and try new things, I recognize that consumerism as a habit does more harm than good. It can eat away at finances, be an unhealthy coping mechanism, and loudly clutter your life. Consumerism is a poverty mindset that says what you have is not enough - and in 2021, I’m not buying it!
in this no-buy year, I want to…
be grateful for and satisfied with things I own
use what I already have to the fullest
practice mindful spending
reduce the quantity of items entering my life
Things I’m not buying in 2021
#1 - new clothes
I’m defining “new clothes” to mean additional wardrobe items that come from a store or thrift shop. The spirit of this rule is to not increase the number of items I maintain in my closet. That being said, I am permitting myself one-to-one replacements for articles of clothing that wear out or are begging to be upgraded. Gifts of new clothes are another exception, but once adopted into my wardrobe they may bump out a less loved item.
Based on an assessment of my current wardrobe needs, I expect this year will include the replacement of my black jeans and a pair of pants for work. These items are thoroughly worn out and ready to go. As it happens, I will also be buying a bridesmaid dress for my sister’s wedding, but I am counting that as a unique exception. Unless anything else goes caput, I’m drawing the line right there!
#2 - Hardcopy books & DVDs
My husband and I put significant effort into retiring books from our shelves, yet we still own many excellent, unread books. If I really must read something we don’t own, chances are I can find it at the local library or even as an e-book. It wouldn’t hurt to put my good old reliable Kindle fire to use again.
In a similar vein, we do not need any more hardcopies of movies. I use a small basket to store our DVDs and CDs. Using a container like this as a boundary is an excellent way to limit the items in a particular category. My basket holds approximately 30 favorite movies and our external DVD drive. Entertainment beyond our collection can definitely be satisfied by our DisneyPlus subscription or movies from the library, without bringing new items into our home.
#3 - small Home décor Items
I’m a sucker for cute knick-knacks, but they usually don’t retain sentimental value. and I’d rather display meaningful decorations in our home. This year, I will not buy home décor items that sit on a shelf or horizontal surface (including candles!). Our house has many surfaces prone to collecting clutter, and this rule is intended to prevent the temptation. However, several of the walls are a little too empty, so I will allow the purchase of wall décor like shelves and prints that spark joy. I’m always hesitant about committing to wall décor, so I know purchases of this kind will be well thought out.
Additionally, this category includes holiday décor. I want to learn to be creative with what we already have when celebrating special occasions and to not acquire more clutter in that department!
#4 - duplicate skincare or beauty Products
I collect a lot of skincare and beauty products simply because I enjoy trying new things. Skincare is my big downfall, because my needs can fluctuate, and I enjoy the self-care aspect of facial products. I’ve collected a drawer full of back stock and travel-sized products that I’d like to see reduced. Overall, I want to simplify my skincare routine and commit to products I really love.
Because I don’t wear much (if any) makeup on a daily basis, I end up with beauty products solely for the purpose of special occasions or theatre performances. I don’t mind keeping supplies for these events, but my store can be minimal and out of the way.
My plan this year is to use up much of what I have in the skincare and beauty department. In 2021, products in my stock need to be finished before buying one that serves the same purpose.
