My Commitment to Non-Consumption
I am taking on a challenging project/experiment for the year of 2011 that is inspired by the Story of Stuff.
I will be doing a cleanse, not of the body (well that too eventually) but of STUFF.
I, Stephanie Dodds, vow to not buy any STUFF in 2011. That is right. No clothes, cute new boots, no furniture, no cute new beanie just because, no ipad, no headphones, no new pink snowboard boots (even though I want them so!) no material item.
The rules:
-I can spend money on experiences (concert tickets, a massage, yoga class, etc) If I want to treat myself to something.
-If I need something that qualifies as STUFF, I can either go to a second hand store to shop for it, trade with a friend, or except it as a gift.
-STUFF that is permitted: cleaning supplies, materials for my business, underwear and socks
Why? Because don’t we really have everything we need? I mean really? I own about 10 beanies I think, do I really need to buy one? I used to think, oh if I just had that super cute top from Free People, my wardrobe will be complete. Then two weeks later, oh if I just had those yoga pants from lululemon, then I will never have to shop again, one month later (that is being super good) oh those cowgirl boots were literally made for me to wear I am pretty sure. And the cycle continues. Its all just STUFF. Then I end up wearing the same clothes over again, and all that STUFF sits in my closet, or garage, or where ever I can fit it all.
I long for simplicity, and not spending my hard earned money on things I don’t REALLY need.
I have all the Beauty Butter I need right? Before I spent $30 for a tiny round thing of face moisturizer, and another $25 on fancy lotion for the rest of my body. Hey at least I have that one covered now! Haha
It’s very interesting how my feelings have changed about this mission already. I have been a little panicked since I made this choice. “Oh man, does this mean I should go to Costco and stock up?” What if, well what if I find the jacket of my dreams, or somehow break all my dishes and need new ones. “Where does that fear come from? Have I ever not been provided for? Nope.
Okay so this is going to be tough, and hopefully life changing. And hey friends of mine, I might be asking to trade some shirts and jeans a lot more lately, but I have some great stuff you can have too! Oh and family, I might need to make you a home cooked meal for birthdays and holiday presents, that cool?
Anyways wish me luck! Anyone want to do it with me?
Me and my girl Zeppelin
Wish me luck!
I wish you tons and tons of luck, but I think you will do it just fine!! You are amazing. I think you will be a better person for doing without STUFF. We can all learn from you, and your cooking, and your butter. If you ever need to trade anything European style, I’m your girl.
you are amazing Dodds!
congrats! I have tried this before and really admire you for this. Simplicity is beautiful!
I think it’s a great thing for the soul and to make a statement to family/friends/society about how much we BUY … so crazy. Goodluck Steph! So admirable. Happy 2011!
I did this for the month of December this year and it’s amazing how much peace and freedom I felt. I might just have to join you on this one!
I think I will try this with you. Seriously. This is an excellent idea. And think of how much money it would save! I am going to do it with you.
good for you. I think we would all be better off if we had the initative to take that leap. memories and experiences last longer and are far more rewarding.
Thank you all for the support! I love the feedback, comments, and sharing ( no pun intended with the sharing)
And I am committed to sharing my experience throughout as well. Happy New Year! Oh my just two more days……..
Wow Stephanie, I have been wanting to do this for a long time. I am proud of your committment! I might just join you on this! I am already drowning in “stuff” which is cluttering up my life. You are so right about the stuff we buy, how rarely it really brings us the joy we think it is going to, then the next thing we know, it is taking up space in our lives and we have to figure out what to do with it! Good luck! I know you will do well.
word….i have been trying to live like this because of the story of stuff as well. it’s a better life. – - – i am a fan of the vow. i think you inspired me to take one. it’s true though when i started breaking down my needs with desires it has reduced a lot of stress to commit to not needing to buy things all the time.
My son and I are going to do this with you. Thanks for being inspiring!