In 2020 I challenged myself to a no buy year. I had no idea what to expect or whether I’d make it out the other side with my sanity still in tact. Good news – I made it! Not only that, but I actually enjoyed it. So this year I’m tweaking things slightly and embarking on a slightly less restrictive low buy year. How does that work? What does that mean? Well, let me share my low buy year rules.
By the way, if you’d like to check out the results of my 2020 no buy year including how much I saved, take a look at this blog post right here.
Why a Low Buy Year?
After the success of my first no buy year, I knew I didn’t want to go back to my old shopping habits. I wanted to continue being more mindful about my purchases and working towards a more minimal lifestyle.
But I also needed to loosen things up a little.
There were a few times in 2020 when I wished I had a little more flexibility in my no buy year rules. For instance, my SD card snapped and, since I wasn’t supposed to be buying anything, I taped it back together instead of ordering a new one. Likewise, when I moved back to the UK last year, I didn’t have a waterproof coat. I spent the winter feeling very cold and wet.
I don’t regret being so strict with myself last year. It really opened to my eyes to which purchases actually benefited me and made me happy. It helped to put things in perspective. But this year I want to add a little more flexibility.
So here are no low buy year rules:
1. No new cosmetics unless the others have been used up first
This is a rule I’m bringing forward with me from my 2020 no buy year because it worked so well. In an attempt to dwindle down my mountain of cosmetics products, I’m only going to let myself purchase new makeup, skincare and haircare products if every other product of that type has been used up. No new body lotions until I’ve used up the ones I already have. No rushing out to buy the latest hair mask while I still have some in the cupboard. You get the idea.
Last year this had a huge impact on my cosmetics hoard. If you want to see the figures for yourself, check out my cosmetics inventory to see just how much stuff I used up in 2020 right here.
2. New clothes are only allowed on a practical basis
After a year of not allowing myself to purchase any new clothes, I realised it was better to give myself a little flexibility in 2021. You know, in case I rip my jeans or get a curry stain all over my only warm jumper. I’m clumsy. I need a safety net.
So this year I’m allowing myself to buy clothes on a practical basis. If I suddenly realise that I need a new cardigan or a new pair of boots because mine have holes in the soles (true story) then I can fill those gaps in my wardrobes. What I can’t do is buy whatever takes my fancy, just because it looks pretty.
3. As far as possible, new clothes should be sustainable or thrifted
Y’all, fast fashion is not the one. I know we all love those bargains. Trust me. But cheap, fast fashion is bad for the planet, not to mention the fact that it’s a complete and utter ethical disaster. So this year I’m going to make an effort to make more sustainable purchases. I know sustainable fashion can be pricey so I’m going to experiment with thrifting and buying second hand this year.
If you want to check out my first experience of online thrifting, you can check out my Vinted haul and review right here.
4. No impulse buys
To stop myself from being distracted by every shiny object I walk past, I’m going to keep a list of things I’d like to buy on my phone. If I still want something a month after adding it to the list then I’ll let myself buy it. If I’ve changed my mind within that month then I’ll know it was just a passing fancy.
5. Only one takeaway coffee a month
This is another rule from my 2020 no buy year. Having coffee with friends as a catch up is allowed (within my personal low buy year rules, but unfortunately not by Covid restrictions…blah), but I need to limit my takeaway coffees. After all, I can make coffee in my own kitchen for a fraction of the price.
6. Hobbies and experiences are allowed
Since the purpose of my low buy year is to use up all my junk and work towards living more minimally, I’m not putting any restrictions on how much I spend on experiences and hobbies. Unfortunately, with the UK lockdown still in force, I can’t go out for meals, cocktails, shows, brunch or anything else enjoyable in public for the foreseeable future. But I can still spend money on my hobbies like crafting to keep me sane until we’re allowed out into the world again.
So there you have it. I’m excited to start out on another year of living and shopping more intentionally and I’m excited to see what my results will be at the end of the year.
Are you ready to start a no-buy year, but have no idea where to start? Check out my no-buy year ebook that’s designed to guide you through the entire process.
Remember, if you’re starting out on a no buy or a low buy year, you can join our Facebook group for support, advice and to make new friends right here!
