Did you know the average household in the U.S. contains a whopping 300,000 items? This could be why so many people struggle with clutter, credit card debt, and many other issues. It's clear that our consumption habits are impacting our emotional and financial health, which is why underconsumption seems to be on the rise. Adopting the “less is more” lifestyle is doing wonders for a lot of people. Ready to jump on the bandwagon? Here are 7 practical tips to help you consume less and live more:
Limit your time on social media
Social media is a double-edged sword. While it keeps us connected, it's also a breeding ground for the feeling of missing out, constant ads, and more. It’s not uncommon for influencer posts of huge shopping hauls to lead to impulse buys of stuff you just don’t need. We’ve all fallen for it, so it’s important to be aware of our triggers. It’s not just about spending less time on social media, it’s also about choosing the people we follow wisely. Ask yourself this: is this influencer providing value to my life through their content? Are they actually teaching me something or just getting me to buy stuff I later regret?
Cancel subscriptions you don’t use or need
Subscription services can sneakily pile up, leading to a surplus of products you don’t actually use. Most people go for subscription options because they offer discounts, but if you’re just accumulating products, it’s time to cancel them. Buy products as you run out instead of hoarding them. You can even make it a game to see how long you can go without replenishing. Who knew minimalism could be so thrilling?
Try the “one-in, one-out” rule
Every time you buy something new, get rid of something you already own, but never use or don’t really need. This simple method can help you keep your things in check and make sure you’re only keeping what you truly need. Decluttering regularly will make your soul feel good and it’s also a great opportunity to donate clothes, books, shoes, etc., to people who need it more. It’s a win/win kind of rule!
Look for second-hand options first
Before you log into your Amazon account or head to the stores, why not make thrift stores, online marketplaces, and consignment shops your first stops? Whatever you need, whether that’s clothes, appliances, gadgets, books, etc., it’s likely you’ll find it second-hand in perfect condition and at a fraction of the actual cost. You get the stuff you need while also being good to your bank account and the planet at large. That’s a great deal.
Practice mindful shopping
Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Do I really need this? Do I already own something similar? Will this bring me joy in the long run? If the answer is no, put it back. Given how easy it is to buy stuff nowadays, very few people actually stop to think twice about it. Make a habit of it and you’ll find yourself consuming and wasting less, while also having just what you need.
Embrace DIY projects
Photo by Wallace Chuck
Sometimes you don’t have to buy new, you can make what you need yourself or upcycle things you already own. From homemade cleaning products to DIY home decor, there are endless ways to get creative and save money. You’ll find that once you start getting into DIY projects, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of making something yourself, and that will keep you testing your skills.
Consider borrowing or renting instead of buying
Photo by Liza Summer
Do you need a tool for a one-time project? Borrow it from a neighbor or a friend. Are you planning a big event? Rent decorations and equipment instead of buying it. Whenever you’re considering buying something, ask yourself, will I use this more than once or a couple of times at best? If the answer is no, borrowing or renting are easy options to turn to!
Embracing underconsumption in every aspect of life can help you achieve a few major goals. For one, it will help you save money and reduce debt. It will also make your house less cluttered and help you contribute to the health of the planet by reducing waste. Remember, it’s not about deprivation; it’s about making mindful choices that benefit you and the world around you. Happy underconsuming!