2023 was a wild ride! It was a year of transitions, confusion, and mood swings. I found myself caught up in a spiral of impulse buys. I thought I needed something but eventually went deep inside the cupboard. By the end of the year, I was reminded of what I was before and how my life became better in previous years and eventually, I realized that intentional living was my ultimate goal. in life
By the end of 2023, I started decluttering my home, donated things and sold a few. But I aim to stop myself from impulse buying unwanted stuff that ends up untouched. It’s important to lead a healthy sustainable life in this era of global crisis.’
I’ve decided to refrain from buying items that I don’t actually need. This not only helps me cut down on my living costs but also breaks the cycle of impulse buying. I understand that these no-buy items are subjective and might bring joy to others. However, I’ve realized that they hold little significance in my life.
- Salon Visits
When 2024 happened, everything changed, and we went into lockdown. Before that, I used to visit salons once a month for my eyebrows. However, with the lockdown in place, I had to find an alternative. That’s when I discovered the facial razor, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! It’s so easy to use, and I can groom my eyebrows whenever I want, right from the comfort of my own home. Plus, it saves me some money! Aside from eyebrows, I did visit salons a couple of times for pedicures, and in 2023, I splurged on two expensive haircuts. But you know what? I’m missing my long hair, and I have no plans to cut it anytime soon. I’ve even invested in tools for doing pedicures and manicures at home. So, all things considered, I can opt out of salon visits and save some money in the process.
- Gym Membership
The next one is gym membership. I hate going to the gym as I feel intimidated by the people there. Don’t blame me! I did try and fail a couple of times. Then, one day, I started with just 10 minutes of yoga at home, then walking, and eventually running! I learned how my body functioned and what was hindering it – turns out, it was insulin resistance! My body was struggling. And then, one fine day, Dr. Moorthy, an angel personified, explained to me what was happening and how I could keep my body healthy! I cut out sugar and other processed foods, walked, ran, and did mixed exercises, along with a bit of weight training at home. My body started healing and my mental health became better! You don’t need a full-fledged gym membership if you’re disciplined enough. And hey, don’t forget to consult a doctor for a check-up!
- Technology Upgrade
Talking about technology, I mainly want to emphasize mobile phones. I’m a user with basic needs, and the mobile phone I currently own is decent. My previous phone worked well for me for about 6 years starting in 2015, and I updated to the latest version in 2021. I hope I’m sorted out for another 3 years. The camera quality is also pretty good.
- New Car
Personally, I don’t own a car. Instead, I’ve made arrangements to commute using public transport, which works great for me. Now, as a family, we do have a preowned 2016 model car that we’ve been using for almost six years, and let me tell you, we take good care of it. Right now, we don’t feel the need for an upgrade.
Knickknacks don’t have a place at home since 2022. Not gonna lie! I have some that I bought years ago, but I’m not anymore going to buy home decor knick knacks that don’t have any purpose, neither give me joy and are only there to collect the dust. The only home decor I love is wall frames, plants and candles (minimal and non-toxic).
- Planners
This hits hard as I’m a sucker for planners and journals. I am not joking! I have about 15-20 planners where I used only a few pages. Does anyone want bi-zillion planners? Not! And in 2024, I’m not going to buy any more planners.
- Skincare
Don’t get me wrong! If you have really benefited from a skincare routine, That’s fantastic! But I don’t have either time or patience for a 6-step skincare routine. I put on moisturizer, and skincare when I’m heading out into the sun. I use Sebamed bar soap to wash my face. That’s it! I’m not paying money for any of those ultra-skincare items.
- Junk food
I have stopped eating junk food, mainly the top brands, sweets, sodas, and other packaged processed foods, and it has healed my body and mind. Both my physical and mental health have improved, and I’m not going back. I love food that I can identify the ingredients of. I cook healthy food at home and make desserts without adding processed sugar.
- Mugs and glasses
Honestly, I’m fanatical about mugs, and there’s something aesthetically pleasing about these cute little mugs. Similarly, my husband is fond of good glasses. Also, I’m grateful that my friends gifted me a couple of mugs this year, and I’ve decided not to buy any more mugs in 2024.
- Impulse buys
It’s just obvious – in 2024, I’m not buying anything that’s not on my wishlist. Making a wishlist and sleeping on it for a couple of days or weeks before making a purchase has been the best method I’ve embraced since 2022. You know how it goes – you spot that cute ring, think it might go perfectly with an outfit, and before you know it, it’s sitting in your closet untouched for years. I’ve got a bunch of things in my closet just like that. So, my aim for 2024 is to utilize what I already have before even thinking about buying something new.
That’s it! I hope this blog provides some insights for people who find themselves stuck in a loop of impulse purchases and need to save some money for other goals in their lives. Again, as I’ve mentioned, the things I detailed here are subjective, and you might enjoy having them – I totally understand! Unfortunately, these items don’t align with my lifestyle in 2024. Nevertheless, let me know your thoughts! Ciao!
