Shopping Detox Experiment

A search into minimalism will give you loads of tips on decluttering and donating a lot of your stuff. But, that is really only part of the deal. You’ve got to stop adding to the stuff with purchases and other people’s stuff.

I definitely do not consider myself a hoarder by any means, but it seems that my house is filled to the brim. The best solution to that issue is a bigger house, right? Maybe to some, but not for me. Below are my thoughts and opinions on consumption and only that. If you want to get that big house and fill with things that satisfy you, then by all means do so. I don’t consider myself to be an activist. Generally the word “activist” brings to mind someone that wants you to change your ways, but forgot to look into the mirror first.

I had a plan, first I was going to declutter my clothes and then slowly replace it with better quality pieces. In my head I had a certain look I wanted to exude: natural, classic, simple style. If I look like I’m confident and have it together, then it must be reality, right? If I buy new lipstick, new shoes, new anti-aging (insert whatever) then I’ll still be young and sexy. If I buy a new gym membership, new workout clothes, new exercise app then I’ll be slim and fit. If I buy new kitchen gadgets, different food, new meal plans then I’ll lose weight and not always be hungry. The list goes on and on. Maybe this isn’t you, but this sure describes me. I need new stuff to make me new and improved; Amanda 4.0, upgrade contains less complaining and more action. If only it were that easy!

My kids like stuff too, especially my daughter. She recently got a new tablet, but really wants an iPad. I do not allow internet access on her tablet and she has time controls on her tablet. The iPad would be harder to monitor (or at least for me), and maybe that is the whole reason she wants one. My point is I found myself telling her constantly, “You need to appreciate the things that you have instead of always wanting more”. Then this inconvenient thought crept up on me: “Maybe you should take your own damn advice.” You can teach your kids ideals all day long, but if you don’t live by them, how can you expect them to?

Now I’m trying to live by example: No shopping for 1 year. Obviously I’m not going to live in the wild, hunting and foraging for food. I will shop for food and tolietries I need to get on in the world. Although I will limit eating out and only get toiletries I need (you have no idea all the different soaps and shampoos I will waste money on). I will not spend money on clothes, shoes, memberships, apps, makeup, new tech, etc. Not sure if I should include memberships that I already have like audible, Apple Music? For gift purchases for others, and other needs the kids may have, I’ll consult with my husband (the most frugal one of us). Sorry kiddos, Christmas is going to be a little bare this year as I’m the one that overspends each year. Just thought I’d point out that this is completely my idea, no pressure from my husband. The timing I think works out perfectly as we are saving up for a house. The challenge to this will be to find activities that are free and blog about it.

I’m also keeping a notebook of all the things I want to buy, but will not. I already have 20 items on it…..The list will be helpful so I’ll remember what to purchase next year. Kidding! Joking aside, it will be interesting to see what items I still want after the year is up.

Like my posts, then please subscribe! I’ll be sure to include updates throughout the year.