These days, it seems like we're constantly bombarded with messages telling us what to buy.
Social media has made it easy for everyone to become an "influencer."
However, I'm loving this latest trend of "deinfluencing."
Finally, we're recognizing that overconsumption is getting out of control.
Though some of the deinfluencing I've seen online is another form of influencing other types of consumerism, I'll rest those thoughts for now.
At its core, deinfluencing is the process of actively reducing the influence that a person or an organization has over you.
This means critically examining the content someone produces, fact-checking their claims, and making decisions based on your own needs, desires, and values.
This can have a tremendous impact on taking back control of our life, reducing clutter (both physically and mentally), saving money, and reducing our footprint.
I've spent the last few years actively working to reduce a consumerist mindset and focus on being intentional with why and what I purchase.
This has led to a simpler, more fulfilling life, with more physical and mental space to enjoy the things I truly love and value.
Disclaimer: I felt a bit conflicted writing this post because, at the same time, I'm totally aware I promote ads via the newsletter or through the podcast!
The reality is that ads are a means to "keep the lights on" because running a podcast costs money. Think recording equipment, hosting platforms, editing software/tools, admin help, etc.
Ads are a way to offset some of those costs while also promoting small businesses, so I appreciate you bearing with me! I try to only partner with brands that I think would be a good fit.
As with any kind of advertisement, we need to be cautious about what is being shared and discern our buying patterns to align with our values or needs.
Here are a few ways I've managed to reduce a consumerist mindset:
- Invest in higher quality pieces that will last, rather than cheaply made items that require constant replacement.
- Normalize repeating outfits. Where did we come up with the idea that we always need a new outfit for every event anyway? IDGAF who notices if I re-wear an outfit.
- Save up for items I really want and cut spending on things I don't care for. For example, I have a few "investment pieces" I'm eyeing and I've set up "sinking funds" to save for it.
Y'all, I will literally die with these pieces... - Purge my closet and belongings 1x a quarter. Use my local neighborhood Buy Nothing Facebook Group to donate things I no longer want or need directly to the hands of someone who can provide them with continued love and use. If you're interested in joining, simply go to Facebook and search "Buy Nothing Your City Name XX". This is one of my favorite Facebook groups.
- Do curbside pickup when possible to minimize impulse buying in-store.
- Mute or unfollow social media accounts that are constantly pushing products or things you don't need. I recently caught myself wanting to buy a red sweater that an influencer had posted about. I added it to my cart and then stopped myself just short of actually purchasing when I realized I had "fallen prey"
and was acting out of impulse. A few days later, I completely forgot about the sweater and I'm so glad I didn't buy it. - Practice gratitude for the things you do have. This can help you stay grounded and reduce the urge for more things.
As part of my own journey towards having less stuff, I made a video sharing 10 things I no longer buy.
I also share some background on how and why I got started down this path and some additional tips and strategies to stay on course.
I hope this inspires you to consider your own consumption habits and make choices that align with your values.
