I find the number one way to save money is to stop buying items or services you absolutely don’t need.
Though this clarity can take some time, it is definitely worth considering. Since our wishlist never ceases to pile up, they put more pressure on our minds, clutter our houses, and burn holes in our pockets. Minimalism has been a boon for my personal finances and consumption levels. I’m sure it will help you too!
Today, I am listing out 18 things I’ve been going without, for more than 5 years now. And I never missed a single item whatsoever.
Beauty products:
Starting with the one that involved 25% of my expenses back then. Many skincare & makeup products did nothing else than sit on the vanity, occupying space, and demanding attention. In fact, trying different cheaper products did more harm than good to my skin. Now I have created my capsule beauty kit and I repurchase the same products after emptying.
Hair-care products:
I suffer from a major hair fall after using conditioners and other hair products. Probably I don’t know the right way of applying it. Hence, I stay away from hair conditioners, dry shampoos, heat protectant sprays, etc.,
Salon visits:
Hygiene has always been a concern for me. Moreover, I was hardly content with my salon visits. I DIY everything at home except for hair trimming & facial threading.
Trendy outfits:
Fashion and trends have never been my thing. I admit I cannot carry it well. I am more comfortable and happy with the few classic pieces in my capsule wardrobe.
Trendy footwear:
The same goes for footwear. I love my flats. I hate when footwear grabs my attention in the middle of a busy day because of all the discomfort.
Fancy jewelry:
Fancy jewelry goes with fancy outfits. As I’m more into classy dressing style I have only one or two pairs of earrings, watches, hand accessories, etc.,
Handbags & Wallet:
The anti-minimalist self of me once owned a lot of handbags that would go with various outfits. Many of which were donated unused. But now I have only one handbag and a wallet. And, I pretty much don’t care if that goes with my dressing style or not.
Coffee mugs:
I had this silly mindset of never repeating the cups and mugs on someone’s second visit to my home. Thus, I had a huge collection of cups and mugs. Thankfully not now. If you’re on Instagram with me, you know I have some ordinary mugs that I don’t mind repeating even on social platforms over again.
Kitchen appliances:
For me, some food processors or appliances are more complicated to use. Instead, I’m way faster with my good old methods.
Cleaning products:
Other than being toxic, they need attention. Well, 5 different solutions for cleaning 5 areas in the house? Not me. I’m good with my dish soap, white vinegar, and baking soda.
Plastic containers:
I was a huge hoarder of plastic containers when they were in trend a few years back. After choosing environmental-friendly behavior I strictly stopped buying plastic items.
Home Decor:
As you might know, I have two articles on this topic: 11 inexpensive ways to beautify your home and 10 tips to decorate a minimalist home. I follow the same techniques to decorate my home.
Newspapers and magazines:
Another unnecessary pile to deal with by the end of each month. I simply hate paper clutter. Canceling the newspaper and magazine subscriptions lead me to peace of mind.
Cable subscription:
Totally glad about this decision. No wonder it is called an “idiot box” 🙂
Gym membership:
Yes, even after being able to exercise at home I had joined the gym, only to hold myself accountable and for regularity. But then, intense workouts demand sufficient protein requirements. Where the protein supplements get in. And, I never want to go that way.
Processed food:
I have never been a fan of pre-packaged or ready-to-cook food. Not even a bit. However, I used to buy Maggi noodles, biscuits, cookies, and pastries frequently. That being said, after getting into the routine of meal planning and prepping, I have entirely stopped buying processed food.
Cleaning maid:
Every time it has been an unpleasant experience. I have created my routines and systems by myself and I’m doing great so far.
Pens:
Each time standing in the queue at the store checkout I used to grab a pack of pens. Still, I never found one that wrote properly (99 percent were dried) when I needed it in a hurry. Now I keep only one or two (good quality) in a place where I can find them easily.
Final Words:
They might seem small ways but they add up. Sometimes, we don’t even realize how many things we spend money on are far from what is required.