I mentioned it briefly at the beginning of the year, but I decided in 2020 to have a No-Buy/Low Buy year. Technically, I started it before the end of 2019, so I could get a head start. I have to say it has been going better than I expected.
Since I’ve been home, I’ve been trying to address the ways I cope with different feelings and situations. I realized that one of my worst habits, especially when I’m feeling down, is turning to retail therapy to make myself feel better.
I’ve known for a while that this would be something I needed to deal with. And I felt that now was a good time to address it.
So, I made a few changes in my life to set myself up for committing to my no-buy/low buy (NBLB). The first task was getting out of a call center environment. I knew that wasn’t suited for the role, and it was causing me to want to shop to relieve stress. Also, I decided to focus more on my health and the gym as a way to alleviate stress healthily.
Once I did those things, I set my rules for my NBLW.
No Buy Rules
- No buying lipsticks
- No buying eyeshadows
- No buying clothes
Low Buy Rules
There are exceptions to every rule, which is where the low buy part of the plan comes in.
- No buying skincare UNLESS I’ve used up all of the products I have of the same type OR it is necessary to my routine
- No buying makeup UNLESS it is something necessary and I have used up all of my alternatives
- No buying clothes UNLESS it is for work (within reason) or it is a staple (underwear, socks, etc.)
For the things I can buy to replace stuff I’ve finished and have no replacement for, I’m only to buy ONE replacement. It isn’t an excuse to buy a ton of things because that would defeat the purpose of this project.
As I said, I started this in 2019, and I can already see a difference in my bank account because I’m on a weekly pay schedule. Usually, I give myself a weekly “allowance,” and by the end of the week, I would be low on cash. However, since starting, I’ve had more money left over at the end of the week to transfer into my savings, which I love.
I’ve also started improving on deciphering between true needs and my wants. This is something that I want to continue to build on in the months to come.
After a few more months, I might have some deeper thoughts and tips on this topic. But so far, it has been a fun experience, especially the growing savings part.
Is anybody else doing a no-buy or low buy this year? Let me know in the comments!