The 365 Day Non-Consumption Challenge

I have challenged myself to go 365 days (started on Aug 1, 2011) without purchasing new, off-the-shelf items.

What does that mean?Lets say I need to buy a new backpack for my daughter for school...I have to find that backpack in some way (thrift, friend, etc.) that doesn't require me buying a brand new, never before used item. Essentially I want everything I purchase to be giving me their "second life".

Why?
#1 The environmental impact used to produce, ship and package new items while perfectly good ones sit in consignment stores, thrift stores and basements.
#2 To challenge the idea that status=belongings. To rethink the phrase "He who dies with the most toys wins" and prove (even if just to myself) that I am the sum of my actions, not my belongings.

So NO buying items brand new for 365 days.
(p.s. I am not a martyr so exclusions will apply to things like runners, undies, etc. to make this realistic it has to be achievable...no recycled TP) see "ground rules" post below for more details.

Stay tuned...

Sunday 10 July 2011

My Challenge- What is it all about...

So I know, that you know, this is a crazy world we are living in.

It seems to me- and let me just say that I am a college drop out so I am no expert- that people are consuming things, ANYTHING, faster than they can use it and in a lot of cases even pay for it.

 I don't think I need a PHD to figure this out.

Be honest how many times have you or a friend of yours said-
  "OMG! I have all this stuff in my closet. Some of it even has the tag still on it!"

-Busted right!

So here is where I am at-
Why do we NEED to BUY, BUY, BUY to feel like we are someone?

Now I know we all need things, if your kids grow as fast as mine do you are probably out there every other week getting something. MY GOAL to by reused at every opportunity, and NOT be ashamed about it.

So starting August first I will be posting my story, I hope it is a good one.

I will tell you about my "hauls" (like the time I got a pair of seven jeans and true religion jeans for a total bill of $21).

and my failures- the times I chose buying new.

I just hope this will make us all think- because our average family debt is only dwarfed by the piles in our landfills...I know we can do better.



Who are you? What does your REAL look like? Be the change you wish to see....

Enjoy your day,
L
Posted by at
Labels:

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous10 July 2011 at 18:49

    Great idea! I can't wait to read about your journey.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Cinders10 July 2011 at 19:25

    I am looking forward to following you for 365 days!! You have a ton of support behind you!!! xo

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)