As I live a more minimal lifestyle, there are many things I don’t buy anymore. Minimalism isn't about going without but rather living intentionally, spending money intentionally, and creating healthy money habits.
These money-saving tips have helped me save money fast and live a more simple, minimal life. I look at money differently now and maybe this can inspire you to stop wasting your money on items you don’t need, too.
{ "id": "8655526", "alt": "", "title": "", "video_link": "https://www.youtube.com/embed/c9tc1LtPvA0", "youtube_video_id": "c9tc1LtPvA0" }
{ "width": 634, "height": 357, "showRelated": true }
Don't waste your money
I don’t like to waste money.I found the best way to save money is not to spend it on things I don’t love, don’t need, or things that don’t add value to my life. Some of the things I’m going to list may not align with your goals, which is completely understandable.
Money is a very personal thing. Each of us spends money differently based on our goals, lifestyle, and values. If you’re looking to save money, hopefully, these tips will give you a fresh insight into some money-saving ideas. Here are the things I don’t buy:
Don't waste your money on social media trends
1. Trends hyped on social media
The combination of endless marketing and pressure to keep up with strangers on social media has never been more influential. Scrolling on social media can spark a feeling of lack, like what I have just isn’t good enough.
This feeling of scarcity leads to unnecessary upgrading. I’m not buying into the idea that I always need the newest things and that saves me money.
Don't waste your money on new furniture
2. New furniture
I’m content withmy older furniture, some of which I’ve had for over 25 years. But I’ll update certain pieces by giving them a new look with some paint and hardware.
In addition, my yoga mat is over six years old and I have boots that are 12 years old. If any item I own still serves its purpose and isn’t broken or worn out, I don’t replace it.
Don't waste your money on new cars
3. New cars
I buy used cars because the inflated price for a new car smell just isn’t worth it to me. A new car loses 20 percent of its value in the first year and 40 percent in four years. By buying cars that are at least five to six years old, the previous owner hasabsorbed that 40 percent loss.
My current car is 13 years old and going strong. An older car gets me to where I need to go just as well as a new car.
Don't waste your money on items on sale
4. Items on sale
Buying something just because it’s 30 percent off isn’t saving me money because I’ve just spent 70 percent on something I didn’t need.Unless it’s something I already planned on purchasing and I happen to find it on sale, in that case, I’m thrilled to pay a lesser price.
Don't waste your money on the newest gadgets and gear
5. Newest gadgets and gear
Buying new gadgets and gear can be pretty exciting to get the latest shiny new object. Like with most elaborate accessories, I don’t really need them. The basic items work pretty well for me. If it improves my productivity or enhances my life, then it’s worth my money.
Don't waste your money on specialty appliances
6. Specialty appliances
I don’t need juicers, apple slicers, pasta, or bread makers. Usually, the specialty items I’ve had were purchased or gifted to me and are now buried in the back of my cupboard unused. If it’s an appliance I use frequently, like my hand mixer, pastry blender, or rolling pin, it’s worth it.
Each of us knows what’s useful to us and what we use the most often versus those impulse buys that collect dust. If I can achieve the same results without a specialty appliance, I pass on buying it. I don’t need an apple slicer. A knife works just fine for me, and I enjoy making bread from scratch.
Don't waste your money on fast food
7. Fast food
I stopped eating fast food over 25 years ago. Fast food has a high price tag both financially and for my health. Instead, I make a healthy lunch for a fraction of the cost.
Don't waste your money on multiple accessories
8. Multiple accessories
I keep my wardrobe simple so I don’t need a lot of accessories, like purses, hats, or shoes. I have two purses, one of which is over 12 years old. I have one wide-brimmed hat, one sun hat, and one beanie.
If I had a corporate job and required several styles of purses and heels, that would be one thing, but my daily life requires a casual look.
Don't waste your money on new phones
9. New phones
New phones come out annually and there isn’t usually a huge improvement from the year before. I don’t feel like it’s necessary to upgrade my phone yearly.
I use my phone until it doesn’t accept upgrades anymore. When it is time to buy a new phone, I buy it refurbished or used.
Don't waste your money
I’m intentional with my money and I try to be a good steward of my money, as well. I purchase things I need, love, and that improve my life. I hope my list of things I don’t buy anymore can help you streamline your life and finances.
Let me know in the comments if there’s an item or category that you don’t waste your money on anymore.
