Conscious Consumerism
That shirt looks great on her. She swears up and down that this is the best candle she’s ever owned. This is the only ring they’ve had that has never tarnished. Apparently, these headphones are completely noise canceling—buy them and you’ll never have to hear anyone speak again. This is the must-have item of today; of course, it’ll be something different tomorrow. Add to cart!
We live in an age of vapid consumerism wherein we are conditioned to believe that it will be the next thing, the next item, the next material good that will at last satisfy us. We continually consume but are content only for a short time before we are influenced into buying the next thing and the next, repeating the cycle much to the chagrin of both our bank accounts and of landfills everywhere.
To consume, in an era of fast fashion, online shopping, and influencer culture, has become second nature, bolstered by a desire to fit in with the aesthetic fed to us by our screens. In response, some have taken to social media to “de-influence” by discouraging their followers from buying items that are poorly made or more than likely unnecessary purchases.
I too struggle at times with mindless consumption of goods. Temptation is unavoidable when we are constantly scrolling and incessantly comparing ourselves to others. Here are a few examples of rules I try to follow to temper my consumerism:
Limit impulsive purchasing. If I buy something that wasn’t on my list when I went into the store, it can only be because I forgot to write it down. If something else catches my eye, I add it to the list for next time instead. In doing so, I give my mind the time it needs to weigh the practicality of purchasing.
Always avoid the trend spend. Social media has created an incredibly high-speed trend cycle. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if you like a material item or if you’re just constantly seeing it. A good rule of thumb for me is to wait six months before I buy something that was the trend of the week. If I still like it and have a use for it when it’s not all the rage, it might actually be worth my money.
Maybe that piece works really well on the model I saw wearing it on TikTok, but that doesn’t mean it will work really well on me. Moreover, it may not be compatible with my lifestyle or environment. I live in the South; in all likelihood I do not need the newest, hottest trend of puffer coats, and there are more productive ways to spend—or maybe even save—my cash. Always keep your everyday needs in mind when you buy.
Shop for higher quality, ethically and sustainably sourced pieces whenever possible. You consume less when your products hold up longer, and it’s much easier to wear something proudly when you know the people who made it were paid a living wage. Fast fashion is unfavorable for all parties involved.
In a similar vein, my golden rule for my minimalist closet: before I buy, I have to name three outfits already in my wardrobe that could reasonably incorporate the piece in question. If you can do this, it may very well be a sound choice of purchase.
Amid a cultural crisis of consumerism, be picky with your purchases. Understand that a purchase will not buy you a lifestyle. Consumerism is largely unavoidable, but we can participate in the culture more ethically by consuming with discernment and moderation when possible. Set rules for your purchasing, and remember that where you put your dollar matters.
Practice conscious consumerism; your self-image and your bank account will thank you.
Strike Out.
Writer: Sarah Singleton
Blog Editor: Jane Dodge
Chattanooga
