You know, it’s funny. One day you’re chugging along, buying everything you’re ‘supposed to’ buy. And then, like a slightly overripe avocado hitting you in the face, it dawns on you. Do I really need all this stuff? That’s when I started my journey toward a simpler, more Earth-friendly existence.
I embraced minimalism, kissed mindless consumerism goodbye, and now live a life as refreshing as a spontaneous siesta and as sustainable as your grandma’s cozy, eco-friendly woolen socks.
Spotify and Netflix Subscription
Say goodbye to my Spotify and Netflix subscriptions. You’ve got to be kidding! But yes, I really did it, I pinky swear. I almost heard my Netflix account mewling like a jilted lover, “But…but…we’ve been through ‘Stranger Things’ together!”
And my Spotify? It practically screamed, “Who will wrap you in the warm embrace of their Discover Weekly playlist now?” Yet, I found other outlets. Podcasts, my old CDs, and the oldest trick in the book – reading novels!
I also discovered that I don’t always have to be plugged into entertainment. And the cash saved? That’s the sweetest music to my ears!
Single-use Plastic Bottles
Who needs a mountain of plastic bottles when you’ve got a trusty reusable one? Say goodbye to the guilt of contributing to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, and hello to all the cash you’ll save.
Plus, my reusable bottle has become my new favorite accessory. Who knew saving the planet could be so fashionable?
Pre-packaged Meals
I swapped them for fresh ingredients and a little bit of kitchen wizardry. Not only do I get the joy of cooking (and the bragging rights), but my health and the environment are thanking me too. No more unnecessary packaging, and no more mystery meat.
Fast Fashion
We’ve all been guilty of buying into fast fashion at some point or another – but this can devastate our environment. Instead, I now focus on buying fewer, higher-quality items that last longer and have less of an environmental impact.
Designer Clothes
Let’s be real; those luxury brand tags don’t make me any more charming. I’ve swapped designer brands for thrift store finds – it’s cheaper, unique, and surprisingly fun!
Expensive Coffee
Turns out brewing coffee at home is not rocket science. Plus, who can resist the smell of fresh coffee in the morning?
Takeout
Instead of relying on takeout, I now make sure to cook most of my meals at home using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This not only saves me money but also helps to reduce food waste and support local businesses.
Gym Membership
Nature is my new gym, folks! Walking, cycling, and yoga in the park have become my new fitness mantra.
Juice
Buying premade juice is often more expensive and of lower quality than making your own. Now, I make my own fresh juices at home using a juicer and organic produce for a fraction of the price.
Unnecessary Electronics
We all have electronics that we don’t really need. I only buy electronics when needed to reduce my electronic waste and try to fix or repurpose old ones instead of throwing them away.
Single-Use Batteries
I used to use single-use batteries for many things around the house, but now I invest in rechargeable batteries instead. This is much more cost-effective and helps reduce electronic waste.
Disposable Items
My biggest money-saving change was ditching disposable things like paper towels and plastic cutlery. Not only did it help me keep some cash in the bank, but it also reduced my carbon footprint considerably.
I now try using eco-friendly materials like bamboo cutlery and cloth napkins. It has become almost second nature now!
Excess Cleaning Supplies
Some cleaning supplies have a lot of harsh chemicals in them that are bad for the environment. To reduce this impact, I now use natural, non-toxic ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar and lemon juice to clean my home.
New Furniture
Secondhand furniture has charm and history and doesn’t contribute to deforestation. Win-win!
And remember, even though it sounds like a drastic lifestyle change, it’s all about baby steps. Find what’s sustainable for you, and make one change at a time. The world (and your wallet) will thank you.
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