Overconsumption is a challenge that plagues many of us, me included. We fall into the habit of buying more and more products and possessions when we really don’t need them. This is known as overconsumption. Which is a problem for many reasons. Products are wasted which is bad for the environment, money gets spent that should be saved, and spaces become so cramped with so much junk it becomes suffocating. Hopefully after reading this article, you will be more aware of overconsumption and how to avoid it in the future.
Use What You Have
One of the simplest things you can do to buy less this year is to just use what you’ve already bought. I know this is easier said than done with all the fancy new products we see on social media or that we see our friends using like a new hoodie, perfume, kitchen gadget you name it! However, it’s not impossible. So maybe reach for that perfectly good water bottle in the back of your cabinet instead of buying one of the new trendy options (I’m looking at you Stanley Cup girlies). Learn how to style your hair with the blow dryer and round brush you already own instead of buying a $600 hair tool. Finish all the skincare, makeup, and hair products that you already have before buying any new ones to try.
Shop Secondhand
Now I know there are times where you need to replace items or buy a gift, but what if instead of instantly trying to buy new, you first looked for something secondhand. Many things are available at thrift stores if you open yourself up to that option: Clothing, bags, home decor, books, games and so much more! Also, if you’re not into the hunt of thrifting but still want to buy secondhand, there are plenty of apps where you can search for exactly what you want and buy them from a reputable source.
Some of these apps are:
Poshmark Poshmark: Buy and sell fashion, home decor, beauty & more
Mercari Mercari: Your Marketplace
Depop Depop – buy, sell, discover unique fashion
You could even take this a step further and see if any of your friends or family are interested in doing an exchange of goods. There’s a good chance someone would love to have one of your sweaters that’s been sitting in the back of your closet and that they’ll have something just as cool to give you in return. The possibilities are endless!
Get Crafty
Being a crafty girl can really take you far. One way is by sewing your own clothes or costumes. You could also upcycle pieces of clothing you already own, this not only saves you money, but you will also be wearing a unique piece of artwork that no store is selling. Now if that seems a bit intense for you, I completely understand, but crafting can be very simple as well. It could be as simple as making the choice to create a homemade birthday card for someone instead of buying one. Further, handmade gifts can be so meaningful and special. If you can think of it, you can create it; your only limit is your creativity!
I hope these tips will inspire you to start thinking about where you could make a few changes to lessen your overconsumption. Don’t think everything has to be all or nothing, any steps taken are steps in the right direction no matter how small. You’ve got this, I believe in all of you!