Nine days into my decision to experiment with cutting consumption...and I feel a little silly! Turns out I was really good at going about consumption in alternative way already! I avoid the mall and shopping places like the plague. I check the Goodwill or Ebay for stuff I need, and I either make or buy local/handmade gifts for special occasions. I recycle and reuse as much as possible. I feel pretty good about my habits, and so far not buying stuff has truly been a non-issue. The wild and crazy purchases a little over a week into the experiment have consisted of some Dr. Bronners, groceries, and a few clearance shirts to be socked away for next winter, paid for with a Christmas gift card. I also stocked up on my pets' flea stuffs, which was certainly a different type pf transaction than the rest lately. $212!!! This was for three pets for six months, so not too bad. It reminded me that there are some costs that I will continue to incur, because I choose to do so. It's ok with me though, because my pets are happy and healthy. It's all about learning a balance I think.
One thing I have been thinking about more is figuring out ways to actually get less stuff in the first place. Some solutions I am considering are:
*buying in bulk when I can
*buying items in the most minimal, nonexistent, reusable or recyclable materials
*making foods like salsa, spaghetti sauce, etc. from scratch rather than buying these foods in a jar that I then have to find a new purpose for (I am the crazy queen of jar-saving)
On I go with the betterment! Cheers!
3 comments:
Wow, good job!!
Thanks for the tips. These compact posts are great!
Sounds like you are doing your part! I always recycle but there is always more I could be doing!
good for you...
you are such an inspiration in this consumerist world...
i am going to try to use less this year as well, products, energy etc...
do what we can and it will surely make a difference :)
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