Understanding Nasty Impulses
Have you ever desired to purchase something but refrained due to insufficient funds or more pressing priorities? Alternatively, have you ever bought something impulsively, realising later that it wasn’t necessary and that you hadn’t budgeted for it?
Do you maintain a to-buy list, eagerly waiting to materialise these purchases once you have the funds?
Now, imagine having a more controlled approach to shopping. You would feel less stressed and unaffected by things you don’t possess. You would save both time and money, potentially ending up with more money than items on your shopping list. Or even better, having more money and nothing to buy! Does this sound possible?
Yes, it is.
The Solution: A Shopping Ban
I used to hoard items—Abayas in the same design and colour, babywearing gear exceeding the number of my children, and an excessive number of journals and notebooks. I even made a special YouTube video showcasing my collection, most of which remained blank even two years later. My room was packed with clothing, resembling braided rivers amidst mountains of kids’ toys.
I was once obsessed with collecting things, a stark contrast to my current minimalist lifestyle.
How did I transform from a collector to someone who owns fewer items than the average person? More importantly, how did I become happier with not shopping and having fewer possessions?
When I stumbled upon the minimalism movement online, one of my favourite blogs was Cait Flanders’. It was exactly a year ago when I decided to undertake a one-month shopping ban, inspired by her blog.
Implementing a Shopping Ban
Starting a shopping ban doesn’t mean you can’t spend any money. You need to make exceptions for groceries and consumables like detergent and toothpaste. You can also relax the rules for necessary replacements. Apply the ‘one in, one out’ rule if you need to replace worn-out shoes or jeans that no longer fit.
Initially, it was challenging, but eventually, I adapted to not buying anything for several months. I learned to control my impulse buys, spending less and saving more.
Check out Cait Flanders’ post for guidance on starting your first shopping ban. Once you begin, let me know how you progress.
P.S. It’s the perfect time of the year to start, trust me.
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