When I first decided to do a No Buy Year, my very next thought was, ‘I should buy a nice new journal to document it!’ The irony struck me almost immediately. I still wanted to write about my year though so, instead, I fished out a plain, lined journal from my cupboard and covered it with some scrap material. It was a chance to ‘make do’ and be creative, two key goals for the next twelve months. The result pleased me even more than if I’d gone out and bought one.
I’m also keen to explore the underlying reason for my attachment to things, specifically, things I don’t yet own. Why do I want these things? What do I hope they will give me that I don’t already have? Is thinking about them merely a distraction, and if so, a distraction from what?
I wouldn't call myself a shopaholic, but I do spend a fair amount of time contemplating things I’d like to buy. I’m intrigued to find out why that is, but more than that, I’m keen to find out what else my mind could be engaged with if buying, and researching what to buy, were removed from the equation.
To keep me on track, I’ve identified six goals:
Goals
Identify my needs vs my wants.
Investigate why I use retail therapy to alleviate stress (not so much buying as window shopping, although, full disclosure: I do like scouring op shops and markets for vintage finds).
Reduce needless consumption to help the environment.
Be more creative by making do.
Save money.
Have fun.
Rules
Despite this challenge’s name, there will be times when I do need to buy things. I still need to eat, maintain my home, run my business etc. So, I'll buy nothing apart from the following exceptions:
Exceptions
Groceries – but not takeaway unless I’m very unwell and there’s no food in the fridge (unlikely). I will also check the fridge and pantry first before buying new items, and will avoid special one-off items that I won’t use regularly.
Gardening supplies – I have a veggie garden from which I eat a lot of produce. I aim to source free mulch and make my own compost. However, there may be times when I need to buy something to keep the garden healthy.
Meals out – I don’t plan on becoming a recluse so, I will eat out once in a while if I’m invited. For me, the issue is my relationship with things, not eating. I won’t be having coffees on my own though. Instead, I plan on making use of my thermos and taking it with me to interesting places.
Cleaning & laundry supplies – only when I run out.
Underwear and supportive shoes – I have ankle pain if I don’t wear good shoes so, if my sneakers die, they will need to be replaced. Other than that, I will buy no clothes either brand new or second-hand.
Gifts for others on special occasions – As I’m the one going on this challenge, not my family and friends, I see no reason to deprive them. That said, I’ll lean more towards getting them experiences rather than things. As for cards, I won’t buy any new cards but will use up my current stash, and get out my art supplies to make cards like I did back in the day.
NB: I will happily accept birthday and Christmas gifts and cards (because I’m not a monster!)
Haircuts – four per year. I don’t want to look scruffy for work.
Work-related expenses such as my website, insurance etc.
Medical expenses.
Household bills.
Transport – I mostly ride my bike, catch the bus or call the occasional uber. This will remain the same because I still need to get from A to B.
Thoughtful experiences. As my challenge concerns my relationship with things and not experiences, I’ll still see the occasional play. However, I’ve unsubscribed from all streaming services as that is mostly mindless viewing. I’m hoping to read more books, but only those from my own shelves or the library.
And that’s my No Buy Year in a nutshell. I’m six days in already and it's been fun so far. Only 359 days to go …
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