What?

• no new purchases of clothes, electronics, home decor for 12 months

I did buy clothes from Big Valley Thrift, CrossRoads and probably other places over the year. Nothing crazy.

How?

• gift experiences instead of products (dining out, event tickets)

Went to a concert for Maddie's bday and my bday.

• food is fine, but aim to cook at home and go to farmers market
• create seasonal capsule wardrobes to help curb spending
• some items will need replacements, this is reasonable
• hygiene products are necessary and okay
• one item in, one item out rule
• unavoidable monthly expenses: rent, utilities, dog food, medical expenses, some cleaning supplies, spotify, car maintenance
• finance related notes: get a starter credit card, set up retirement, save for a trip
• if you do “need” something try to borrow or find second hand
• keep a record of what you do purchase throughout the year

Why?

• reduce clutter in my home
• avoid accumulating more things
• better understand needs and wants
• eat better and cook more
• save money for travel in the future