Girl, I HEAR you! I nearly had some sort of break down of puritanical self- flogging because I wanted (REALLY wanted) to buy a fluffy white turtleneck sweater.. I only had to soul search for about 4 days..um..it's $25, and it's not a repeat of anything I actually have. Today I realized that I'm kinda losing my mind, my finances are just fine, I'm debt free, and I don't overspend (although I occasionally over-buy at thrift store). There's no point in making myself suffer, suffering doesn't make us better, just bitter. I love your phrase "without judgement".
BetterLife Broadcasting yes! If the buy comes from a healthy place and brings you joy and is without burden (mental or financial or other m) then I see no reason to get mad at ourselves. Removing judgement when the truth of the scenario is really not as catastrophic as i think it is was the missing piece for me. So happy you learned this about yourself too â€ïžâ€ïž
I did a No-Buy for January and since I am very competitive, I decided to compete with myself. I have done No-Buy months before and knew I could do it. I was completely successful. I am still motivated to continue through February. This month my goal is âNo Procrastinationâ. I have been booking appointments for my vehicle checkup, dentist, etc. I have taken my dishwasher apart and cleaned it, I emptied my freezer and fridge and really cleaned and purged. I have done two days of bulk cooking for homemade prepared meals for the freezer. The feeling of accomplishment that I have had so far this first week is motivating me for hopefully completing a lot of my long-term âTo-Doâ list. I am really trying to âAdultâ myself through things I have been putting off for literally ages. Thanks for the continued inspiration, you are realistic and brutally honest about your struggles with keeping focused being on track with a Low-Buy. It inspires those of us who struggle too, we are not alone, we are all human and no one is perfect. Why would we want to be anyways. Cheers!!
Michele Brunskill sounds like youâre on a roll and like youâre ready, Michele! Thatâs amazing! â€ïžâ€ïž and agree, âperfectâ is probably pretty flippinâ boring!
Delayed gratification for long-term freedom and peace. We donât need a break because we have more junk than we truly need. Stay strong. Think of February 1st as January 1st and go, go, go. Balance is knowing weâre in control. Donât give up your power.
Also true! I very much agree â€ïž I just want to find a place where the shame spiral isnât part of the dialogue if I do slip up. Sometimes I even become guilty buying groceries- itâs a difficult headspace to be in sometimes
The universe values you for your perseverance, intelligence and authentic self. YOU are a doctor of pharmacy and that in itself is amazing! Focus on forgiving yourself. We all make mistakes because weâre all still learning. Goodness awaits. đ
I just started my no buy this month, so I'm excited for this journey. I also started setting up for a capsule wardrobe. I found the clothes I think I want for my capsule, I just need to make sure everything goes together. I have a lot of goals that are all associated with sustainability and minimalism so I'm really excited! This is the lifestyle I have always wanted to achieve, and am really finally driven to do it.
I think when we begin to feel like this itâs time to rest. Good for you for realizing that and taking action! We shouldnât feel guilty about doing so. Just go with the flow. If vlogging is providing the rest and low-stress you need them go with it. I try to think of things in terms of agriculture. There is a time to plow, fertilize, plant, water, grow, harvest, and rest. I think we forget we are not machines, and we too have rhythms in how we flow through life. We most often forget...REST. It too is essential to our existence.
I so appreciate you asking how your viewers are. In my life, very few people ever ask me how I am. It is always me that asks them. Your channel has been such a wonderful gem for me. Whatever you choose to do is fine. If you vlog, I will watch. If you have something more produced, I will watch that too. How you are sharing your journey in all its messiness is why I tune it. So keep your wonderful content coming please. Thank you.
I love this because I went out for dinner with my friend and she was telling me about her work and how she's been there for about 20 years and she finally got a .60 raise. So in my mind I decided that I wanted to buy her dinner....once the check came I felt guilty, but if much rather set myself back a goal than to not treat such an amazing friend
Brittney Hall that is super sweet and thoughtful of you. Iâm sure it was much appreciated. Iâm of the belief that you will see that thoughtful blessing return to you, in some form or another! đ
I was so glad when January was over; I needed a clean start with February. I was super successful with the grocery budget & making meals out of the overstock we have at the house, but I wasnât successful with, what seems like, the million other goals I set. I think I tried to do too much, and I ended up disappointing myself. February has already been SO much better. Take care!!! â€ïž
This is a low time of year for lots of people especially if you are in winter in the northern hemisphere. So many people I see are feeling down, lack of light and time outside I think. Every day is one day closer to spring, ha ha. I golf. I find that reading about gratitude and writing down what makes me feel grateful, helps me to take stock of what I really have. Balance, for me, is a long term process. I look at it over a period on months or a season...balance every day is not even a goal. As far as clothes go, writing down oneâs wish list has been helpful for me. Assessing the closet and seeing what is lacking after putting a number of outfits together, shows what I need. Then I shop just for that only. Other things can distract, but then I think of what I actually need, what I decided after thoughtful consideration was required, and I realize that i can let that shiny new thing stay in the store. The list of studied requirements helps me to stay on track. Be gentle with your soul as you would a friend. Failure, in your eyes, big or small, is a learning. Iâm going on and on....enjoy...
I had no buy goals for Feb that didnât go so well! I realized though I need to make a mindset change away from consuming. For March I will focus on producing not consuming. Thanks for your openness!
I completely relate with the burn out phase that you're feeling. I feel so in tune with your financial and mental situation and headspace right now and know it'll get better with time. So far so good!! And of course you're such a huge still inspiration that I've been shopping my closet đ in saving solidarity!
Really appreciate your discussion on goals, expectations, balance. I've been struggling with unrealized expectations. Ones that were probably more of a "shot in the dark" than ones that are really considered. Writing is hard, and it's easy to want to give up.... Your words encourage me to follow your mantra (of this time, and I am expecting now too in Nov 2023) of "let go of expectations; stick to your goals". I actually made up a little 4 x 5 card with this quote over a nice nature photo. Need to keep this in mind as my deadline looms - Nov 30, 2023. â€
I also feel very tired and after reviews at work I will be taking a 6 day vacation to my aunts cabin with my sister and daughter. I cannot wait to get on the road and flop down on the couch and rest. So glad you decided to make this video....i really enjoy them!
I love that you touched on the true meaning of balance, and for you personally. It is impossible to do it all- all the time. Sure we have those moments of high performance and creativity, but if we stayed there all the time we wouldnât have the chance to sit back and enjoy what weâve done. I like the perspective of balance & being intentional. Itâs how I force myself to stop rushing to cross things off my to-do list, and take some time to do something that I want to do. Like work in my garden or declutter something thatâs been in the back of my mind. Or like the other day- hem some curtains! đ Sometimes tasks on the to-do list donât actually âneedâ to be done. At least not right now. Sometimes itâs good to just allow yourself the mental space to do something that you feel like doing. When you feel like it. Even if it wasnât in the plan, and even if it is something productive! Sometimes thatâs the best way to get things done. Do them when we are in the mood to do them. Like videos! hehe
First, I am probably older than most of your viewers, Iâm 60. A long time ago I learned not set goals, to be efficient not busy, say no, value my down time, to be comfortable with and embrace being quiet, and to let life unfold slowly. What I replaced goals with are routines, practices and habits. The dichotomy of goals, you either accomplish them or not, didnât take into mind the wonderful practices and habits I had gained. For example, I may need to loose a few pounds and I set a goal of 15 pounds but lost ten. No, I didnât make my goal but I did add the practice of adding more fruits and veggies to my diet. Which IMO is longer lasting and more beneficial than the short term goal of losing weight.
Glad Iâm catching up on this video. I spent in my clothing budget for a few things this month. I went on a cruise and many of my summer/spring items came with me and upon wearing them I realized they didnât fit me right and a few items were worn past their best or overall not flattering on my body anymore. I went to a consignment shop with my husband and thoughtfully tried on and chose 2 dresses and a top. I spent within my budget and I kept trying them on when I got home to be sure- I am sure. I donât feel guilty. The purchases make sense in my closet and with what I own, arenât superfluous and donât feel overly exhilarating. I didnât feel overly high buying them, I had someone help me to know my purchases were in check and I felt I was also being budget/environmentally sustainable. I know by shopping less Iâm way more aware of what I like- what I own and I value the money I set aside for clothing more now and want to make better choices. Guilt canât be how we view everything - we need to allow some grace
i love your insights and im totally tryin to find my balance too. i was feeling crummy about my low buy, but then im reminding myself that im making progress in comparison to before and now i need to make more concrete goals for myself and appreciate all that i have!
I am feeling happy because my hubby and I are (both together) debt free however, we now feel antsy because we are at the beginning of the journey of saving up for a home đ€Ż Lol! I truly love your videos and live the vlog style. Finding balance can be hard but, I definitely feel that if you keep at it eventually it becomes ingrained in who you are to the point where even if you deviate or fall off the wagon you can get back on again. I agree that being kind to ourselves is very important because only then can we be truly kind to others. đ
Thank you for the reminder to be kind to myself - I was doing a low buy in Jan and it was a struggle. I am taking the time to examine the triggers that lead me to want to aimlessly consume and the goal is to be more aware and mindful of why I shop.
Such a genuine reflection! Replacing shopping/browsing with working out has been the key to my success this month. Staying mindful and accepting of things I need/want in the next month will hopefully help me change my negative habits. Thanks for the update xo
What struck me is how much pressure we put on ourselves to just constantly be go,go,go. January was an up and down month for me but a very useful learning curve. I'm also learning that investing in me doesn't have to equal shopping. Allowing myself time to breath and be me is far better for my health and wallet! Don't feel guilty about having me time, we all need that x
I have been trying to be intentional with my spending so far this year. I am trying to spend less unless I get things that are practical and I actually need. Sitting with your stuff can be hard but it's important to do. I still feel like I have too much in my wardrobe so continuing to sell things and fill small gaps in my closet. I have returned to eBay and found a few key things which I am excited out. I plan to seek more things via thrifting and consignment and project panning has kept me quite minimal with my spending makeup wise as it takes forever to use things up. The guilt feeling is so hard to rid oneself of. I have learned to understand that often it comes with impulse purchases. If I really have to think about something and I still want and/or need it that feeling usually isn't there. Its something giving yourself the permission to go ahead and pull the trigger on a purchase.
This video really spoke to me Iâve been feeling very overwhelmed with trying to get everything done and disappointed when I donât! Ugh I had a low begging h of Feb. with eating out it wasnât even a healthy choice! Thanks for sharing and I hope we can all find balance in February!
Thank you for being real, pesonaly January was not successful in my low buyđąFebruary was fine till todayđ i bought some clothes and a pair of shoes and by the time i got home i felt sooo guilty! But i m going to return the clothes tomorrow đyour video made me feel better đ
Vlog style is great! I think what you are feeling this time of year is very normal. My January didnât go as planned but I tracked my spending and reviewed daily, learned much and am excited to apply that awareness to February.
Personally, I enjoy your videos and you have inspired me to start the low-buy year and now I am challenging myself with a no-buy month (February). What comes to my want and needs, I have made a list for them and every time I catch myself of thinking something many days I wrote it down. To gain money for these wants I made a rule; I have to earn money by selling my own clothes or accessories. This really makes you think of your purchases and value your possessions (also gives you room to wiggle). Naturally, all this has made me gone through my apartment and oh boy I have stuff. So February is used for cleaning and finalizing my thesis :)
I also started on my low buy because of your videos! I realized that I just used to buy crap all the time, because I was bored, because it was on sale.. none of that any more. Iâm still planning on making some expensive purchases this year, but I definitely will be cutting down on impulse purchases. So far so good, Iâm doing well on my low buy journey âșïž
I find the FlyLadyPlus app great for motivation/getting household stuff organised, along with the very motivating Diane in Denmark on CZcams , who has a lot of fun whilst remaining low buy x
Iâve been on an unintentional low buy since last year, purchasing things on this mental list that I have and feels good to finally find and purchase that thing when I find it đ
Love your vlogs! If that is what is comfortable for you, go with it. I really value your insight & realness. Attempting something of a low buy year and being a much more conscious consumer. Also, trying to be more appreciative of what I already own. Thanks for the inspiration.
Hi Christina! Iâm of the mindset that once weâve made that move to change our spending behavior and our perspective about what we need, why we shop, and about having debt, we then have to transform it into a lifestyle. Realistically we will buy things, but what? And how much? And why? Theses are all questions to ask. Itâs like when we diet to reach a weight goal. Once we reach that goal we may allow some of the things weâve abstained from back in our diet but we have to be careful not to slip right back to old habits! We need to make how we eat a lifestyle and the same thing goes with how we spend. As for what we do, when youâre tired rest. Your body knows what you need. You will be restored and doing what you want when itâs time. đ
I enjoy the vlog style. It breaks everything up and gives us different perspectives. Some times sit fown videos can get monotonous. I enjoy just hearing you chat with us.
Great vlog - I agree that the danger is we go from too much to denial - balance is key and that breeds the healthy happy we need to be a better version of us đx
I really appreciate your honesty and transparency and showing your vulnerable side Christina. And I definitely enjoy these vlogs too so please keep them coming. I agree about balance and not being too rigid in our outlook and rules. Watching you has made me much more considered in my spending and I've been doing low but/replacement only. I was feeling guilty as I purchased a lovely leather wallet yesterday. I have a perfectly good leather wallet already but dislike the colour and wanted a more classic tan colour. I know I will treasure this wallet for many years as it's a classic style and colour but was feeling bad. So thank you for this vlog, it came just when I needed it. I am going to stop beating myself up about this purchase right now! Thank you â€ïž
This is the first video of yours I've watched, following on from a search regarding sustainability and low buy. I really enjoyed it, found lots of interesting things to think about. Thankyou đ
So sorry about being in a funk! Sometimes it happens and we're all here for you while you work through it. I appreciate you bringing up buying without judgement. It's okay to buy things while working on a low buy and there being no set "standard."
I am trying to create my capsule wardrobe and reducing my wardrobe. Especially trying to figure out for spring/summer. Iâm new at it so still feel I have too much. I did not buy anything new in January. I did buy a couple things to fill hole in wardrobe (blue blazer, brown booties) BUT I found them at my fav secondhand shop!
Time out and rest is important. Enjoy it! Especially when youâre working hard most of the time. Moderation is the key to happiness in everything I think. If you buy sth, it shouldnât be associated with guilt. If youâve worked hard on yourself to consciously consume, then the rare time you actually purchase something, you should just enjoy it. Same with dieting and exercise. You wouldnât run up to someone who lost a bunch of weight and overhauled their lifestyle and decided to treat themselves to a rare, rare chocolate and scream âFAILURE!â at them would you? But thatâs what we are doing to ourselves when we feel guilt over resting and maybe buying one pair of beautiful boots that we can afford to love and enjoy for years, when we are otherwise working so hard to improve ourselves.
For me, balance is doing what I need to stay healthy. One thing Iâve learned is not to replace 1 external self-soothing behavior(I need a cookie) with another (I need to declutter 10 things today). Take a moment and be ok with who you are right now.
Vlogs are great! I love hearing you check in and it really helps me reflect on how Iâm doing. Have been thinking a lot about balance too-in the low buy and in life goals, itâs hard to let go of wanting everything all at once. Itâs good you slowed down when you needed it-Iâm trying to do the same.
I think you are killing it with your low buy lifestyle! As far as other things like energy levels and hustling...I might have a suggestion. PLEASE disregard if this does not work for you, but I watch a lot of simple living/minimalist youtubers who work full-time and also make videos. A lot of them actually set their alarm and get up an hour earlier to work on their videos before work. Not necessarily filming stuff but editing, planning and brainstorming kinda stuff. If you're going to bed at midnight or later that may be seriously affecting your energy levels. I know this because I am a hardcore insomniac. It might be hard at first, but I bet you will be able to squeeze waaaaay more stuff into your day and get better sleep at night. HUGS FOR YOU!! xoxo
I bought a lot of clothing in January đ so Iâm doing a low buy in February and March (only replacements). I only allow myself to buy a birthday present ( 1 thing that I really need or like). I love your channel and your Face group!
I started my low buy year with a plan to not buy anything new new, but ended up buying a jumper and a dress in the sale - I did have my eye on them at full price from last year so they were not impulse buys but I still felt terrible. Also bought 3 second hand items.... On the flips side, I managed to sell 50 items on ebay in January, and listed hundreds more. I am hoping the majority will sell in Feb/March.
I like the vlogs :) my januaru was a bit strange. After last year of restricting myself I thought I was a bit ready to let myself buy some things. I am doing a no buy on clothes this year but then this month I started spending on things I never wanted before for household. Now is clear was me replacing the satisfaction of buying clothes on something else. Another proof that my shopping addiction is still there so next month I will need to set up a more strict budget :(
I love your vlogs , I just do home tasks/cleaning etc that are soooooo boriiing and annoying to me. Listening to your vlogs at same time just makes it feel more like hanging out with people and not so painful to accomplish đđ Ps : Feel free to make as many vlogs as you want. Im in a crash and burn faze , my house is getting quite not undercontrol đđâ€ïž
Thank you for the honest check-in! (I think there were some of us that were waiting to see the Anine Bing boots in this vlog đ ) For me, trying to find balance on a no buy or low buy journey has been all about mix and match. For example, in January I made it a no buy skincare + low buy makeup (one piece) and low buy clothes (just the necessary) month. For February it will be no buy month for makeup and the others categories are low buy. I don't know if I expressed my self correctly in English but... Oh well âșïž kisses from Portugal đđ
I've just done a no buy january. it's so liberating and great for my bank balance. trying to do a low buy year as i have more than enough clothes and footwear.
Just to add. We had a programme (old now and on youtube) called spendaholucs . The no buy was to find out what your spending triggers are and what you miss so then you build your new budget to include the things you miss and value. I think you seem like you are in the rebuildibg the budget phase so your new budget allows you to spend on the things you love. My families are travelling and sweets/puddings when we are out (love a packed lunch) . Let us know how you get on x
Hi there sweetie, thank u for the well wishes in ur last reply. I really appreciate it a lot!! How r u? I hope u r doing great!! I still havenât found a job but I am hanging in there..Surviving still...!!! Take care okay? Stay safe!! â„ïž u!!
Hello thanks fir the vlog. I think it helps to talk. I feel the same. I have play money so i can spend within that abd it allows me to be on a permenant low buy but i dont splurge as i can have whatever i want.. I might just have to save for it. When you change a behaviour your brain always goes to thevorher extreme eg spender to no spend but then settles somewhere inbetween.. You jyst need to figure out where you want to be in that middle ground... Im ok with that with money but recently list 3 stone, 1 year later 10lbs has crept back.. Im figuring out how happy i am 10lbs heavier and if im happy with the extra it allows me to eat and the weights classes i can do...you are jyst maybe in the settling phase with your money and spending, just observe whether its working for you and to what extent and rejig your rules until you are happy, a bit lobg but hope it helps. Ps i like both video formats vlog or planned so don't sweat the small stuff!
I know you follow Dave Ramsey's plan. Would you be willing to do a budget/personal finance video kinda like what Aja Dang did? I'd love to see the progress you're making
No buy is like zero waste, low buy is more realistic, reduced waste and reduced plastic, use what we already have, and just try to waste less are more achievable.
But is it honestly easier to have "no buys" and "low buys" when you have so many things gifted? Maybe you address this in another vlog. Not throwing shade lol, just feels like I'd be able to skip out on shopping everlane more easily when they're sending me their new items every week?
I addressed that in my q+a video a few videos back! I think it kinda helped a little if Iâm being honest, but also didnt stop me from wanting and coveting things to shop for myself. Itâs like thereâs a component to actual spending that I am addicted to as well. The everlane allowance is lovely, but also I am expected to create content around the clothes (eg on IGTV) etc in exchange, so not necessarily free, and Iâm now opting to accept less since Iâm still currently overwhelmed with my Stuff pile as it is! I hope this helps. I know it seems counterintuitive and complicated - Iâm still grappling đđ»
What does your version of balance look like? Also I realized I speak in a lot of innuendo, and I don't quite mean to lol đ
Girl, I HEAR you! I nearly had some sort of break down of puritanical self- flogging because I wanted (REALLY wanted) to buy a fluffy white turtleneck sweater.. I only had to soul search for about 4 days..um..it's $25, and it's not a repeat of anything I actually have. Today I realized that I'm kinda losing my mind, my finances are just fine, I'm debt free, and I don't overspend (although I occasionally over-buy at thrift store). There's no point in making myself suffer, suffering doesn't make us better, just bitter. I love your phrase "without judgement".
BetterLife Broadcasting yes! If the buy comes from a healthy place and brings you joy and is without burden (mental or financial or other m) then I see no reason to get mad at ourselves. Removing judgement when the truth of the scenario is really not as catastrophic as i think it is was the missing piece for me. So happy you learned this about yourself too â€ïžâ€ïž
I actually enjoy the vlog-type videos more. Styling videos are great but I watch your channel for the honest check-ins! Thanks!
Thatâs so helpful to know! Thank you Helene! â€ïž
I did a No-Buy for January and since I am very competitive, I decided to compete with myself. I have done No-Buy months before and knew I could do it. I was completely successful. I am still motivated to continue through February. This month my goal is âNo Procrastinationâ. I have been booking appointments for my vehicle checkup, dentist, etc. I have taken my dishwasher apart and cleaned it, I emptied my freezer and fridge and really cleaned and purged. I have done two days of bulk cooking for homemade prepared meals for the freezer. The feeling of accomplishment that I have had so far this first week is motivating me for hopefully completing a lot of my long-term âTo-Doâ list. I am really trying to âAdultâ myself through things I have been putting off for literally ages. Thanks for the continued inspiration, you are realistic and brutally honest about your struggles with keeping focused being on track with a Low-Buy. It inspires those of us who struggle too, we are not alone, we are all human and no one is perfect. Why would we want to be anyways. Cheers!!
Michele Brunskill sounds like youâre on a roll and like youâre ready, Michele! Thatâs amazing! â€ïžâ€ïž and agree, âperfectâ is probably pretty flippinâ boring!
Delayed gratification for long-term freedom and peace. We donât need a break because we have more junk than we truly need. Stay strong. Think of February 1st as January 1st and go, go, go. Balance is knowing weâre in control. Donât give up your power.
Also true! I very much agree â€ïž I just want to find a place where the shame spiral isnât part of the dialogue if I do slip up. Sometimes I even become guilty buying groceries- itâs a difficult headspace to be in sometimes
The universe values you for your perseverance, intelligence and authentic self. YOU are a doctor of pharmacy and that in itself is amazing! Focus on forgiving yourself. We all make mistakes because weâre all still learning. Goodness awaits. đ
Also, I meant to say âRâ instead of âBâ in âFebrrrrrrruaryâ đ
style apotheca Iâve been spelling it wrong all month!
I just started my no buy this month, so I'm excited for this journey.
I also started setting up for a capsule wardrobe. I found the clothes I think I want for my capsule, I just need to make sure everything goes together.
I have a lot of goals that are all associated with sustainability and minimalism so I'm really excited! This is the lifestyle I have always wanted to achieve, and am really finally driven to do it.
I love it, Brianna! â€ïž
I think when we begin to feel like this itâs time to rest. Good for you for realizing that and taking action! We shouldnât feel guilty about doing so. Just go with the flow. If vlogging is providing the rest and low-stress you need them go with it. I try to think of things in terms of agriculture. There is a time to plow, fertilize, plant, water, grow, harvest, and rest. I think we forget we are not machines, and we too have rhythms in how we flow through life. We most often forget...REST. It too is essential to our existence.
Shalieah Totallieah I love the analogy! Itâs so true đ đ±
I so appreciate you asking how your viewers are. In my life, very few people ever ask me how I am. It is always me that asks them. Your channel has been such a wonderful gem for me. Whatever you choose to do is fine. If you vlog, I will watch. If you have something more produced, I will watch that too. How you are sharing your journey in all its messiness is why I tune it. So keep your wonderful content coming please. Thank you.
I love this because I went out for dinner with my friend and she was telling me about her work and how she's been there for about 20 years and she finally got a .60 raise. So in my mind I decided that I wanted to buy her dinner....once the check came I felt guilty, but if much rather set myself back a goal than to not treat such an amazing friend
Brittney Hall that is super sweet and thoughtful of you. Iâm sure it was much appreciated. Iâm of the belief that you will see that thoughtful blessing return to you, in some form or another! đ
Charitable contributions, taking loved ones to dinner, and small gifts for friends or family is allowed in my no buy year
I was so glad when January was over; I needed a clean start with February. I was super successful with the grocery budget & making meals out of the overstock we have at the house, but I wasnât successful with, what seems like, the million other goals I set. I think I tried to do too much, and I ended up disappointing myself. February has already been SO much better. Take care!!! â€ïž
Fresh start! â€ïž
This is a low time of year for lots of people especially if you are in winter in the northern hemisphere. So many people I see are feeling down, lack of light and time outside I think. Every day is one day closer to spring, ha ha. I golf. I find that reading about gratitude and writing down what makes me feel grateful, helps me to take stock of what I really have. Balance, for me, is a long term process. I look at it over a period on months or a season...balance every day is not even a goal. As far as clothes go, writing down oneâs wish list has been helpful for me. Assessing the closet and seeing what is lacking after putting a number of outfits together, shows what I need. Then I shop just for that only. Other things can distract, but then I think of what I actually need, what I decided after thoughtful consideration was required, and I realize that i can let that shiny new thing stay in the store. The list of studied requirements helps me to stay on track. Be gentle with your soul as you would a friend. Failure, in your eyes, big or small, is a learning. Iâm going on and on....enjoy...
I had no buy goals for Feb that didnât go so well! I realized though I need to make a mindset change away from consuming. For March I will focus on producing not consuming. Thanks for your openness!
I love this! I think I need to focus on the same â€ïž
I completely relate with the burn out phase that you're feeling. I feel so in tune with your financial and mental situation and headspace right now and know it'll get better with time. So far so good!! And of course you're such a huge still inspiration that I've been shopping my closet đ in saving solidarity!
Really appreciate your discussion on goals, expectations, balance. I've been struggling with unrealized expectations. Ones that were probably more of a "shot in the dark" than ones that are really considered. Writing is hard, and it's easy to want to give up.... Your words encourage me to follow your mantra (of this time, and I am expecting now too in Nov 2023) of "let go of expectations; stick to your goals". I actually made up a little 4 x 5 card with this quote over a nice nature photo. Need to keep this in mind as my deadline looms - Nov 30, 2023. â€
I love the vlogs..to me it feels like checking in with a girlfriend albeit one sided i do love the vlogs â€
Heather P I feel like Iâm talking to a friend too â€ïž
I also feel very tired and after reviews at work I will be taking a 6 day vacation to my aunts cabin with my sister and daughter. I cannot wait to get on the road and flop down on the couch and rest. So glad you decided to make this video....i really enjoy them!
I like your vlogs a lot. It's like watching every day struggles of a shopaholic in recovery - I can relate so much! Also, you are a likable person
I love that you touched on the true meaning of balance, and for you personally. It is impossible to do it all- all the time. Sure we have those moments of high performance and creativity, but if we stayed there all the time we wouldnât have the chance to sit back and enjoy what weâve done. I like the perspective of balance & being intentional. Itâs how I force myself to stop rushing to cross things off my to-do list, and take some time to do something that I want to do. Like work in my garden or declutter something thatâs been in the back of my mind. Or like the other day- hem some curtains! đ Sometimes tasks on the to-do list donât actually âneedâ to be done. At least not right now. Sometimes itâs good to just allow yourself the mental space to do something that you feel like doing. When you feel like it. Even if it wasnât in the plan, and even if it is something productive! Sometimes thatâs the best way to get things done. Do them when we are in the mood to do them. Like videos! hehe
First, I am probably older than most of your viewers, Iâm 60. A long time ago I learned not set goals, to be efficient not busy, say no, value my down time, to be comfortable with and embrace being quiet, and to let life unfold slowly. What I replaced goals with are routines, practices and habits. The dichotomy of goals, you either accomplish them or not, didnât take into mind the wonderful practices and habits I had gained. For example, I may need to loose a few pounds and I set a goal of 15 pounds but lost ten. No, I didnât make my goal but I did add the practice of adding more fruits and veggies to my diet. Which IMO is longer lasting and more beneficial than the short term goal of losing weight.
Glad Iâm catching up on this video. I spent in my clothing budget for a few things this month. I went on a cruise and many of my summer/spring items came with me and upon wearing them I realized they didnât fit me right and a few items were worn past their best or overall not flattering on my body anymore. I went to a consignment shop with my husband and thoughtfully tried on and chose 2 dresses and a top. I spent within my budget and I kept trying them on when I got home to be sure- I am sure. I donât feel guilty.
The purchases make sense in my closet and with what I own, arenât superfluous and donât feel overly exhilarating. I didnât feel overly high buying them, I had someone help me to know my purchases were in check and I felt I was also being budget/environmentally sustainable.
I know by shopping less Iâm way more aware of what I like- what I own and I value the money I set aside for clothing more now and want to make better choices.
Guilt canât be how we view everything - we need to allow some grace
i love your insights and im totally tryin to find my balance too. i was feeling crummy about my low buy, but then im reminding myself that im making progress in comparison to before and now i need to make more concrete goals for myself and appreciate all that i have!
I am feeling happy because my hubby and I are (both together) debt free however, we now feel antsy because we are at the beginning of the journey of saving up for a home đ€Ż Lol! I truly love your videos and live the vlog style. Finding balance can be hard but, I definitely feel that if you keep at it eventually it becomes ingrained in who you are to the point where even if you deviate or fall off the wagon you can get back on again. I agree that being kind to ourselves is very important because only then can we be truly kind to others. đ
Thank you for the reminder to be kind to myself - I was doing a low buy in Jan and it was a struggle. I am taking the time to examine the triggers that lead me to want to aimlessly consume and the goal is to be more aware and mindful of why I shop.
Such a genuine reflection! Replacing shopping/browsing with working out has been the key to my success this month. Staying mindful and accepting of things I need/want in the next month will hopefully help me change my negative habits. Thanks for the update xo
What struck me is how much pressure we put on ourselves to just constantly be go,go,go. January was an up and down month for me but a very useful learning curve. I'm also learning that investing in me doesn't have to equal shopping. Allowing myself time to breath and be me is far better for my health and wallet! Don't feel guilty about having me time, we all need that x
I have been trying to be intentional with my spending so far this year. I am trying to spend less unless I get things that are practical and I actually need. Sitting with your stuff can be hard but it's important to do. I still feel like I have too much in my wardrobe so continuing to sell things and fill small gaps in my closet. I have returned to eBay and found a few key things which I am excited out. I plan to seek more things via thrifting and consignment and project panning has kept me quite minimal with my spending makeup wise as it takes forever to use things up. The guilt feeling is so hard to rid oneself of. I have learned to understand that often it comes with impulse purchases. If I really have to think about something and I still want and/or need it that feeling usually isn't there. Its something giving yourself the permission to go ahead and pull the trigger on a purchase.
I had a good low buy January!
Thank you for the inspiration.
Sofia Lo thatâs amazing!! Iâm so glad! đ„°đ„° thank YOU!
This video really spoke to me Iâve been feeling very overwhelmed with trying to get everything done and disappointed when I donât! Ugh I had a low begging h of Feb. with eating out it wasnât even a healthy choice! Thanks for sharing and I hope we can all find balance in February!
Thank you for being real, pesonaly January was not successful in my low buyđąFebruary was fine till todayđ i bought some clothes and a pair of shoes and by the time i got home i felt sooo guilty! But i m going to return the clothes tomorrow đyour video made me feel better đ
Vlog style is great! I think what you are feeling this time of year is very normal. My January didnât go as planned but I tracked my spending and reviewed daily, learned much and am excited to apply that awareness to February.
Personally, I enjoy your videos and you have inspired me to start the low-buy year and now I am challenging myself with a no-buy month (February). What comes to my want and needs, I have made a list for them and every time I catch myself of thinking something many days I wrote it down. To gain money for these wants I made a rule; I have to earn money by selling my own clothes or accessories. This really makes you think of your purchases and value your possessions (also gives you room to wiggle). Naturally, all this has made me gone through my apartment and oh boy I have stuff. So February is used for cleaning and finalizing my thesis :)
I also started on my low buy because of your videos! I realized that I just used to buy crap all the time, because I was bored, because it was on sale.. none of that any more. Iâm still planning on making some expensive purchases this year, but I definitely will be cutting down on impulse purchases.
So far so good, Iâm doing well on my low buy journey âșïž
I find the FlyLadyPlus app great for motivation/getting household stuff organised, along with the very motivating Diane in Denmark on CZcams , who has a lot of fun whilst remaining low buy x
Iâve been on an unintentional low buy since last year, purchasing things on this mental list that I have and feels good to finally find and purchase that thing when I find it đ
Love your vlogs! If that is what is comfortable for you, go with it. I really value your insight & realness. Attempting something of a low buy year and being a much more conscious consumer. Also, trying to be more appreciative of what I already own. Thanks for the inspiration.
Hi Christina! Iâm of the mindset that once weâve made that move to change our spending behavior and our perspective about what we need, why we shop, and about having debt, we then have to transform it into a lifestyle. Realistically we will buy things, but what? And how much? And why? Theses are all questions to ask. Itâs like when we diet to reach a weight goal. Once we reach that goal we may allow some of the things weâve abstained from back in our diet but we have to be careful not to slip right back to old habits! We need to make how we eat a lifestyle and the same thing goes with how we spend. As for what we do, when youâre tired rest. Your body knows what you need. You will be restored and doing what you want when itâs time. đ
I've personally really been loving these vlogs just as much/if not more than the normal sit-down videos!
I enjoy the vlog style. It breaks everything up and gives us different perspectives. Some times sit fown videos can get monotonous. I enjoy just hearing you chat with us.
Hey, sunshine! Love all your videos. They make me feel stronger and are very helpful! Thank you! đâ€
Great vlog - I agree that the danger is we go from too much to denial - balance is key and that breeds the healthy happy we need to be a better version of us đx
I really appreciate your honesty and transparency and showing your vulnerable side Christina. And I definitely enjoy these vlogs too so please keep them coming.
I agree about balance and not being too rigid in our outlook and rules. Watching you has made me much more considered in my spending and I've been doing low but/replacement only. I was feeling guilty as I purchased a lovely leather wallet yesterday. I have a perfectly good leather wallet already but dislike the colour and wanted a more classic tan colour. I know I will treasure this wallet for many years as it's a classic style and colour but was feeling bad. So thank you for this vlog, it came just when I needed it. I am going to stop beating myself up about this purchase right now! Thank you â€ïž
Enjoy it!
This is the first video of yours I've watched, following on from a search regarding sustainability and low buy. I really enjoyed it, found lots of interesting things to think about.
Thankyou đ
I love what you said about spending time with your stuff. That was very helpful.
So sorry about being in a funk! Sometimes it happens and we're all here for you while you work through it. I appreciate you bringing up buying without judgement. It's okay to buy things while working on a low buy and there being no set "standard."
I am trying to create my capsule wardrobe and reducing my wardrobe. Especially trying to figure out for spring/summer. Iâm new at it so still feel I have too much. I did not buy anything new in January. I did buy a couple things to fill hole in wardrobe (blue blazer, brown booties) BUT I found them at my fav secondhand shop!
I like your vlogs. Thank you for your vulnerability. I failed at no buy last month. But Iâm trying low buy this month and tracking my purchases.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts regarding financial goals & shopping behavior!
Time out and rest is important. Enjoy it! Especially when youâre working hard most of the time. Moderation is the key to happiness in everything I think. If you buy sth, it shouldnât be associated with guilt. If youâve worked hard on yourself to consciously consume, then the rare time you actually purchase something, you should just enjoy it. Same with dieting and exercise. You wouldnât run up to someone who lost a bunch of weight and overhauled their lifestyle and decided to treat themselves to a rare, rare chocolate and scream âFAILURE!â at them would you? But thatâs what we are doing to ourselves when we feel guilt over resting and maybe buying one pair of beautiful boots that we can afford to love and enjoy for years, when we are otherwise working so hard to improve ourselves.
Totally agree! Well put.
Very much agree!!! Thank you for this perspective- I needed it! â€ïž
For me, balance is doing what I need to stay healthy. One thing Iâve learned is not to replace 1 external self-soothing behavior(I need a cookie) with another (I need to declutter 10 things today). Take a moment and be ok with who you are right now.
Vlogs are great! I love hearing you check in and it really helps me reflect on how Iâm doing. Have been thinking a lot about balance too-in the low buy and in life goals, itâs hard to let go of wanting everything all at once. Itâs good you slowed down when you needed it-Iâm trying to do the same.
Ana Vargas thank you so much, Ana! Right? Slowing down is so difficult but we all deserve to when we need to and want to. đđ»â€ïž
I think you are killing it with your low buy lifestyle! As far as other things like energy levels and hustling...I might have a suggestion. PLEASE disregard if this does not work for you, but I watch a lot of simple living/minimalist youtubers who work full-time and also make videos. A lot of them actually set their alarm and get up an hour earlier to work on their videos before work. Not necessarily filming stuff but editing, planning and brainstorming kinda stuff. If you're going to bed at midnight or later that may be seriously affecting your energy levels. I know this because I am a hardcore insomniac. It might be hard at first, but I bet you will be able to squeeze waaaaay more stuff into your day and get better sleep at night. HUGS FOR YOU!! xoxo
That is true! Iâm in this late night routine and really should try making the switch! Thank you this is great advice! â€ïž
I bought a lot of clothing in January đ so Iâm doing a low buy in February and March (only replacements). I only allow myself to buy a birthday present ( 1 thing that I really need or like). I love your channel and your Face group!
I enjoyed your vlog and love the Facebook group which is keeping me motivated. Thanks Christina.
I enjoy the vlogsđđŸâ€ïž
I love your vlogs đđŒ
I started my low buy year with a plan to not buy anything new new, but ended up buying a jumper and a dress in the sale - I did have my eye on them at full price from last year so they were not impulse buys but I still felt terrible. Also bought 3 second hand items.... On the flips side, I managed to sell 50 items on ebay in January, and listed hundreds more. I am hoping the majority will sell in Feb/March.
#StyleapothecaSquad!!!đđŸââïžđ I hear it but you will get through this. I love your Vlogs.
Thank you, Myrna! How are you doing? xo Love!
Loving these vlogs, they're really helpful, thanks.
I really like the vlogs!
I like the vlogs :) my januaru was a bit strange. After last year of restricting myself I thought I was a bit ready to let myself buy some things. I am doing a no buy on clothes this year but then this month I started spending on things I never wanted before for household. Now is clear was me replacing the satisfaction of buying clothes on something else. Another proof that my shopping addiction is still there so next month I will need to set up a more strict budget :(
I love your vlogs , I just do home tasks/cleaning etc that are soooooo boriiing and annoying to me. Listening to your vlogs at same time just makes it feel more like hanging out with people and not so painful to accomplish đđ
Ps : Feel free to make as many vlogs as you want. Im in a crash and burn faze , my house is getting quite not undercontrol đđâ€ïž
I literally have zero motivation to stop shopping. My fiancĂ© recently chucked me and cancelled the wedding (cost well over 10k to cancel it). When I put on a bomb outfit and walk out the house it makes me feel that little bit better. My shopping has slowed right down though as my wardrobe is pretty much where I want it to be. I bet it will spiral out of control again when he meets someone else. We literally just bought a house together and have children and we have decided to live together but lead separate lives, so there ainât no getting away from it đ
Iâm so sorry Hayley - it sounds very overwhelming đ take care of yourself â€ïž sending you loving vibes đđ»
Loving the vlogs. Lots of good thoughts!
Thank you for the honest check-in! (I think there were some of us that were waiting to see the Anine Bing boots in this vlog đ )
For me, trying to find balance on a no buy or low buy journey has been all about mix and match. For example, in January I made it a no buy skincare + low buy makeup (one piece) and low buy clothes (just the necessary) month. For February it will be no buy month for makeup and the others categories are low buy.
I don't know if I expressed my self correctly in English but... Oh well âșïž kisses from Portugal đđ
Ugh I keep forgetting to share them đ - I will
I've just done a no buy january. it's so liberating and great for my bank balance. trying to do a low buy year as i have more than enough clothes and footwear.
Just to add. We had a programme (old now and on youtube) called spendaholucs . The no buy was to find out what your spending triggers are and what you miss so then you build your new budget to include the things you miss and value. I think you seem like you are in the rebuildibg the budget phase so your new budget allows you to spend on the things you love. My families are travelling and sweets/puddings when we are out (love a packed lunch) . Let us know how you get on x
I never thought about it that way! Thatâs so helpful and insightful - thank you! â€ïž
I had a great no buy January. I feel good so far, I'm on a no buy year. At least trying
I love the vlogs!!!đ
Hi there sweetie, thank u for the well wishes in ur last reply. I really appreciate it a lot!! How r u? I hope u r doing great!! I still havenât found a job but I am hanging in there..Surviving still...!!! Take care okay? Stay safe!! â„ïž u!!
I love the vlogs!
Hello thanks fir the vlog. I think it helps to talk. I feel the same. I have play money so i can spend within that abd it allows me to be on a permenant low buy but i dont splurge as i can have whatever i want.. I might just have to save for it. When you change a behaviour your brain always goes to thevorher extreme eg spender to no spend but then settles somewhere inbetween.. You jyst need to figure out where you want to be in that middle ground... Im ok with that with money but recently list 3 stone, 1 year later 10lbs has crept back.. Im figuring out how happy i am 10lbs heavier and if im happy with the extra it allows me to eat and the weights classes i can do...you are jyst maybe in the settling phase with your money and spending, just observe whether its working for you and to what extent and rejig your rules until you are happy, a bit lobg but hope it helps. Ps i like both video formats vlog or planned so don't sweat the small stuff!
I know you follow Dave Ramsey's plan. Would you be willing to do a budget/personal finance video kinda like what Aja Dang did? I'd love to see the progress you're making
Yes!
No buy is like zero waste, low buy is more realistic, reduced waste and reduced plastic, use what we already have, and just try to waste less are more achievable.
Ps: you are adorbs in the thumbnail and that sweet face next to your bed is not lost on me. Be well! đ
Heather P haha thank you heather! đ„°
After a month of no-buy it felt wired to buy a shirt..... Is it just me? đ
But is it honestly easier to have "no buys" and "low buys" when you have so many things gifted? Maybe you address this in another vlog. Not throwing shade lol, just feels like I'd be able to skip out on shopping everlane more easily when they're sending me their new items every week?
I addressed that in my q+a video a few videos back! I think it kinda helped a little if Iâm being honest, but also didnt stop me from wanting and coveting things to shop for myself. Itâs like thereâs a component to actual spending that I am addicted to as well. The everlane allowance is lovely, but also I am expected to create content around the clothes (eg on IGTV) etc in exchange, so not necessarily free, and Iâm now opting to accept less since Iâm still currently overwhelmed with my
Stuff pile as it is! I hope this helps. I know it seems counterintuitive and complicated - Iâm still grappling đđ»
I prefer vlogs anyway xx
Hormones? Im always on a high at the beginning of my cycle but crash 10 days before menstruation
Melissa Ockey could be!! I should track that in my period app as well đđ»