I started my no-buy pledge in May 2017. It means that I don’t buy anything except essentials. Over the last few months, I defined “essentials” Of course, food is an essential. I am also ok to pay for experiences, but not things. So far, I purchased a dress and a scarf. Those two purchases were against my pledge but it is ok. I have more clarity of how I decide further on until Jan 2018.
I noticed that I have a lot of stuff. My closet is full of stuff that I don’t use. Then my quest for how to simplify my life started. I used to go for shopping outings. Now I am against conspicuous consumption. I am committed to make more conscious decisions about what I consume in this world. Burning man affected my view. One of the ten principles is “Leave no trace” After carrying my trash with me out of the Playa, I noticed how much trash I generate in my default world. And where would that trash go… Reduce and reuse. There were a few films that impacted my view. Recently I watched The True Cost, a documentary about the environmental impact of what I wear/throw away, and Minimalism, another documentary about simple living. Fight Club, the movie, was the instigator.
Here is my technique. I make a list of what I want to spend $ on. I will revisit my list in 2 months. If they still desire them, I will negotiate getting them. If I don’t desire them, great then I didn’t really need them anyway.
Bucket One
Stem cell treatment on my knee or IV
Bulletproof coach training
Date with Destiny
National Academy of Professional Ski Instructors of America
Bucket Two
All-mountain bike
Electric bike
Segway for Burningman
Knee high medium heel winter boots
Bucket Three (More like essentials)
Water filter
Blender
Skis
Study desk
Grocery Store Essentials (I am ok to spend on those)
Veggies
Fruits
Oils
Fish
Eggs
Hair conditioner
Entertainment Essentials (I am allowed to spend $ on those)
One night out/per week including dinner is acceptable; picnics are preferred.
Concert tickets
Flight tickets
Festival tickets
Ski passes
Gym membership
Baby shower presents
Birthday presents
Wedding presents: Preferably all presents provide an experience.
Are they essential? The answer is to be determined.
Supplements, vitamins
Books
IphoneX
Other Essentials
Business expenses
Ponpon’s food, toys, shampoo – basically Ponpon’s expenses are the exception.
