4 reasons to stop shopping for 30 days

The thought of a 30 day shopping ban is enough to strike fear into the hearts of shopaholics everywhere. 30 days without buying random stuff may seem literally impossible, for real.

Like refusing a freshly baked, double choc brownie with an epic scoop of vanilla bean ice cream…seriously, who’s saying no to that?

But if your addiction to beauty products, clothes and random house stuff (damn you Target for your super cute, super cheap homewares) is #outofcontrol, take a deep breath and let’s look at 4 reasons why you should stop shopping for 30 days.

You’ll bust of out of your style rut

Clothing can be the hardest stuff to stop buying, amiright? If you’re feeling stuck in a style rut, the easiest answer can seem like buying new stuff every week. But challenging yourself to not buy and rely on your creativity instead is the best – and most affordable! – way to rediscover the potential of your wardrobe.

Instead of picking through your wardrobe with the same old ‘Waaaahhhh I’ve got nothing to wear!!’ mindset, look at it with fresh eyes and be prepared to bust out some style experiments!

Here’s what to do:

• Mix and match different clothing combinations you’ve never worn before
• Challenge yourself to turn a really kinda random item you don’t wear much into a staple piece
• Make your accessories work harder to create different looks
• Be bold and step out in that crazy patterned dress you loved but have been too shy to wear!
• Find new ways to layer clothes. Layers are your best friend when it comes to mixing and matching.

If you’re feeling stuck for inspo, hit up Pinterest for a bunch of ideas on how to mix and match your wardrobe or take a peek inside the chic, minimalist closets of fashionistas Style Bee and Un-fancy. These ladies really know how to make more work with less when it comes to fashion.

You’ll avoid buyer’s regret

I think most of us can say we’ve made purchases in the heat of the moment that resulted in an annoying, niggling feeling of regret later. At times, literally minutes later!

Rushing into a purchase may actually be fuelled by an emotion, rather than a need. We’re feeling down, unattractive or bored so we default to ‘need it now’ buying mode just indulge in that brief happiness hit that comes with getting new stuff.

By putting your patience to the test, it gives you time to put emotions aside and think about whether or not you really need that thing you think you can’t live without….. even though you didn’t know it existed until five minutes ago.

On your 30 day no shopping challenge, keep a list of the things you think you’d like to buy and see if you still feel the same way when the challenge is over.

If it’s an expensive purchase, it also gives you time to investigate costs and compare brands.

Ok, I hear what you’re saying…”But what if it’s on sale for a limited time!!??”

Sales, emotions and haste create the perfect storm for buyers remorse…so if it’s on sale, there’s even more of a reason to consider if you actually need this thing. Or do you just want it because the sticker says half price?

You’ll turn up the gratitude dial

“If only I had a platinum AMEX, if only my job paid more money, if only my bonus was bigger, if only I could afford to have 50 pairs of runners instead of just the 40 I have now…THEN I’d be happy”

Getting more stuff is not the solution to feeling better about yourself and your life long term. At best, it’s a temporary high that bottoms out pretty quickly and soon enough we’re armed with cash or plastic again, on the hunt for our next purchase.

It’s a relentless, kind of empty – not to mention expensive – pursuit, being stuck in this loop of wanting more stuff, bigger stuff, better stuff to feel happier while ignoring all the things we already have.

Being grateful for what we already own helps ease the restless feeling of discontent that manifests in overspending on stuff we don’t need.

Gratitude leads to amazing benefits including better physical health, improved emotional well-being, better relationships – with yourself and others – and even improves the quality of sleep.

Adopt an attitude of gratitude during the 30 days of no spending and each time you feel compelled to buy something, instead think of 3 things you’re grateful to already own.

You can save your cash for experiences instead

A self imposed 30 day spending ban is certain to lead to a fatter bank account. You’ll see the $20 here and $50 there you’d normally drop on random purchases really adds up. Why not save it to buy an experience instead of stuff? Treat yourself to a weekend away or an unforgettable meal instead of buying a bunch of new homewares you really didn’t need.

Studies show spending on experiences rather than stuff gives us more bang for our buck when it comes to happiness levels and satisfaction. You’ll talk about that amazing weekend away for years come, long after the random candles you snapped up on sale have been shoved somewhere in the back of the cupboard, never to be seen again.

Think 30 days no shopping is a tough call? Check out these women who have stopped shopping for a year.

I bought no new clothing for a year – Eden Ashley, Mint Notion

My Year-Long Shopping Ban – The Feminist Vegan

Shopping Ban – Cait Flanders

What do you think about putting a pause on buying stuff you don’t need for 30 days?

About the author

Elesha from Minimise To Maximis is a minimalist lifestyle coach, writer and expert coffee drinker. She loves helping overwhelmed women rise up from the clutter. She also loves drinking coffee. Sometimes she’s lucky enough to do both at the same time!