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...

Wednesday 13 July 2011

Random Inspirations

Yes, this blog will be about the challenge, but I wouldn't have challenged myself to do this if I wasn't inspired by something.

In fact, I am inspired often.

I will be sharing those with you as we chat about image, consumerism, waste and authentic living.

First thought.....

If your day dream and your day are not the same you will have conflict in your life.

It made me think....

1 comment:

  1. That's good! And by that definition, I know very few people who do not have conflict in their lives. Once in awhile I wonder how many people I know are truly, truly happy. I think it's a short list because not everyone has the guts to really look at themselves and admit that their life doesn't match their dreams. I know mine doesn't and I have to work to bring them closer together.

    ReplyDelete