Welcome to the fourth step in our Simple Steps to Go Green series. For step 1, step 2 and step 3, please click on those highlighted links.
Step 4: Adopt a minimalist mindset and buy only what you need.
If that is a little too extreme for you focus on living an un-cluttered life style. This is not easy for me and is something on which I need to continuously focus. I love to shop as much as the next shop-a-holic, but when I stop to think about the environment (and my pleasantly full home), I can usually skip the purchase. It also helps to ask myself, “Do I really need this product? If so, where am I going to put it?”
Another idea to help in this area is giving items to others. Once we are done using the children’s items we already have, we swap or donate them. My friends and I swap clothes, toys and books. By reusing items, swapping helps to save the environment and to lessen some of our expenses. Anything we don’t swap, gets donated. I have found a charity that I like to support. They even come and pick up your items!
When dealing with food, meal planning helps me to only purchase what is needed. The menus get planned for the week and the food items to make the weeks worth of meals are added to my shopping list. I also keep a “Target list”, which helps me to buy only what is on the list in that lovely store.
What are some tricks you use to only buy what you need?
Excellent tips! I try and stop myself from extra purchases by asking if we really need it. Usually the answer is “no” but once in a while an extra food treat might end up in the basket. 😉
Great job! I totally understand – that happens to me, too especially when shopping with little ones.
We fail at this one. We always end up buying more than we need.
Great post! I wish some companies would adapt the minimalistic approach when it comes to packaging!! How many times have you picked up an item and shook your head at all the plastic used to make it look pretty. Many times I put id down!
Thank you! That is very true. It’s often hard to open and bad for the environment!
Well, I’m doing this and I didn’t know it was a step! I HATE clutter, and evaluate everything before I bring it into the home!
Good tip! I try to do with everything but especially the food and grocery list. I like to keep the fridge as empty as possible. I do try to stock up on survival items when I can though, like bottled water, dry beans, etc for a just in case scenario.
Great tips. Love the web site.
Glad you like them. Thank you!