Black Friday: Take a Moment Before you Shop

Before hitting the internet to shop this weekend, I’m taking time to ask myself: “Do I really need that?” or “Do my loved ones really need that?” Like many people this black Friday, there are deals that I have been looking forward to for a few months now. For me, it’s discounted fitness classes that I simply cannot afford any other time of year. Also, it’s a great time to begin Christmas shopping for my family and friends. But prior to adding items to my online shopping cart, I ask myself a few questions.  Do I really need it?  How often will I use it? Where will the product end up at the end of it’s lifecycle?

It's important to ask myself if I need or want an item.  If I need the item, of course I will purchase it. If I want the item, I will ask myself if I could use that money in another area of my life.  For example, I’m planning for a big move therefore, my Black Friday shopping this year is solely for gifts and a few of those fitness classes I mentioned earlier. I am not a big shopper and my wardrobe would be considered small, especially for someone who works in fashion. But, I love all the pieces I have in my compact, curated closet! It’s important that I think about my purchases and consider how they would enhance my closet in the long run.  When it comes to purchasing gifts, this year I intend to ask what my family wants for a gift.  I tend to guess and I usually do pretty well but not so much last year.  Asking is the best way to ensure the item will be appreciated and used.

When shopping for clothing or an item I ask myself if I will wear it often or use the item often.  If the answer is yes, then I will add the item to my cart.  If the answer is no, then I pass on the item.  I hate having “stuff” in my apartment.  If I don’t love the piece of clothing or household item, it stays at the store.

Another important question is where this item will end up at the end of its lifecycle. The fact is that many things we purchase end up in landfills.  It is very challenging to buy only compostable clothing. No one lives a 100% sustainable life.  It’s just impossible, but we can all take steps to lead slightly more sustainable lives. Thinking about where our purchases will ultimately land is a great way to curb purchasing things we may not truly need.  To postpone items going to landfills think of how an item can be repurposed.  I tend to get gifted mugs quite a bit so a great way to use them is as planters for small plants or a place to hold my art supplies like markers and paintbrushes.  Try searching Pinterest or the internet for ways to repurpose old items and avoid tossing them

out. 

Remember to shop smart this Black Friday!