8 Things To Stop Buying in 2024

_Minimalism
8 Things To Stop Buying in 2024
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If you are looking to explore minimalism, save money to pay off debts or reduce visible clutter at your place, this post is for you!

I’ve been actively practicing mindful, minimalist approach towards life for few years now. By Mindful, minimalist approach, I mean being fully present in the process of buying, organizing, decluttering and simplifying. A mindful minimalist approach is about bringing awareness and intentionality to every aspect of life.

In 2024, With the intention to explore financial minimalism, here are some general categories of things you might consider avoiding or minimizing in 2024 and that I am certainly not buying in 2024, either because I have enough of them to last me sometime or the things do not add value to my life anymore. Hopefully, the list will inspire those who are reading my post to be more intentional with future purchases and avoid wasting money, space and environment.

Disclaimer: Specific recommendations may vary based on individual preferences and needs, I am sharing 8 things based on my experience.

Impulse Buys

This is the most important category if you are planning to follow a minimalist approach. Honestly, I have reduced my impulse buys drastically over the years and going to follow the same in 2024. Take time to consider whether the new item adds value to your life and serves a genuine purpose in life.

Clothes

Not buying clothes just because they look cute or to meet the ever changing fashion trends. I have promised myself this year that I will only buy clothes to replace an old piece that is worn out or if I REALLY need one.

Self Care and Beauty

I have been mindfully buying my skincare/haircare/makeup products since years now and continuing the trend in 2024 as well. I recently stocked my skincare and beauty products during Black Friday Sale and they are good to last me for an year (Hopefully). Hence I am not buying new products just for the sake of cute packaging or trying new products.

Single-Use Items

This category includes single-use items like plastics, disposable straws etc. Let’s try to replace them with reusable alternates to reduce waste. e.g. Stainless steel straws are good alternates to plastic straws.

Decorative Items with No Meaning

I am not a big fan of buying decorative items for my home that holds no meaning to me. Instead of accumulating decorative pieces, focus on meaningful pieces that add sentimental value or serve a specific purpose. e.g. indoor plants or photo frames are a good option. Hence, this category is going to be easiest for me to implement.

Unnecessary Kitchen Gadgets

We all are guilty of buying unnecessary kitchen equipments or cutlery that are just lying around in kitchen drawers just because they look cute and we are scared to use them. Next time, when you purchase any kitchen gadgets, ask this to yourself.
1. How many different ways can I utilize this item?
2. Do I enough space in my kitchen? You certainly don’t want to take up all your counter space with kitchen gadgets.

Non-essential Subscriptions

Review your current subscription services and cancel any that you don’t actively use or benefit from. This includes streaming services, magazines, or other monthly subscriptions.

Replace Materialistic Gifts with Experience/Learning

Over the years, I have realized that by focusing on experiences and learning, you not only contribute to a clutter-free lifestyle but also foster personal growth and create lasting memories for your loved ones. If you like giving presents, try replacing it with courses/workshops, travel vouchers, spa gift cards, plants, fitness classes or outdoor adventure trips.