how to be a more conscious consumer (mindful purchase decisions)
written by Jasmine Irven
“as consumers we have so much power to change the world by just being careful in what we buy.”
— Emma Watson
As I’ve become more aware and sensitive to my impact and the impact of others on the world, I’ve come to realize just how incredibly wasteful this season of consumption is (Black Friday deals + discounts, Prime Days on Amazon, etc.).
And as the holiday season progresses, so does this feeling of needing to make a purchase, encouraged by the constant bombardment of messaging from companies, sales (that are seemingly *too good* to pass up), and pressure from friends and family.
This pressure to consume and spend, and the unnecessary associated waste, is also coupled with an increasing level of stress and overwhelm.
For your mental and financial health, as well as the health of the planet, please consider consuming more consciously this holiday season. Try to take a break from consumption this week - whether that’s spending money, time, or energy on things that aren’t truly aligned with who you are and the life you want to be living.
Instead, let’s try to focus on being more mindful and intentional with how we’re spending our time + money this season.
**Disclaimer - I’m all for supporting small businesses, especially those owned by BIPOC. As someone running my own small business I totally understand the work that must go into running a brick and mortar shop and even hope to open my own one day! I’m talking mostly about supporting big corporations, or buying things just for the sake of buying them - and of course, do what’s best for you. I just want you to consider taking these suggestions into account as you do so.
begin to embody more of the “buy nothing” movement rather than the “shop until you drop” mentality.
Below are a couple affirmations you may want to consider repeating to yourself:
I am enough exactly as I am.
I already have everything I need.
Material items do not define me or my success.
I am choosing this life because I want to, not because I have to.
I choose to spend my resources in ways that better serve me.
“every time you spend money, you're casting a vote for the kind of world you want.”
— Anna Lappe
remove the temptation
Unsubscribe from promotional company emails
Unfollow accounts that you find are pressuring you to make a purchase
Take a break from social media altogether or set screen time reminders so you aren’t mindlessly scrolling.
Fill your day with other things that bring you joy: take a walk, read a new book, take a new exercise class, meditate, declutter your home, cook a new meal, or watch a documentary.
Focus on spending your time elsewhere - with friends, family, and on yourself.
embody more positive consumption habits
Time spent with family and friends
Time spent on yourself
Time spent on a passion project
Resources spent supporting companies you truly care about
Time spent volunteering
Resources spent supporting a cause you care deeply about
make more conscious purchases
If you are still wanting to make a purchase, try to do so more mindfully!
Ask yourself:
Would I still be making this purchase if the item wasn’t on sale?
Will I be happy with this purchase in 1 week? 1 month? 1 year?
Why do I feel like I need this item?
Does this item truly bring me joy?
Would this money be better spent elsewhere?
Do I want to support this company and the people behind it?
P.s. we have a full blog post on this concept here.
more conscious purchase ideas:
Thrift store finds
Opting for experiences over things (comedy show, travel, movie tickets, etc.) - note these may look different due to #COVID
Self-care (a massage, spa date, reiki session, meditation class, sauna session, etc.) - note these may look different due to #COVID
Investing in yourself (in a coach, mentor, therapist, etc.)
Invest in a new course or class (pottery, design, yoga, dance, etc.) - look for virtual options!
Support local and ethical companies whose values align with yours
“the most environmentally friendly product is the one you didn't buy.”
— Joshua Becker
I hope this post empowers you to recognize that you have a lot of purchase power, and it’s up to you to be more intentional with how you are spending your resources.
Please carry these ideas with you throughout the holiday season, and the rest of the year.
How are you working towards being a more conscious consumer?
Sustainable Bliss Collective endorses products & brands we genuinely love and support. If you end up making a purchase through one of our affiliate links, it will not cost you anything but we may earn a commission. Learn more here.
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about the author
Hey there! I’m Jasmine, founder of the Sustainable Bliss Collective, a Certified Meditation Teacher, and lover of all things self-care, slow-living, and personal development.
I believe that ambition and self-care can coexist, and as such I hope to encourage and inspire you to take care of yourself, breathe deeply, connect with who you are, manifest your dreams, enjoy the blissful moments of each day, and make an impact in this beautiful world we call home.
Connect with me on Instagram here!
