Why it works
A year is long enough to break the "new is better" habit for good. A low-buy, unlike a no-buy, allows planned purchases, so it survives real life.
The rules
- Write three lists: never buy (for example, new clothes for fun), replace only when used up (for example, toiletries), and planned buys (for example, new running shoes in June).
- Review the lists each month.
- Anything not on a list follows the 30-day rule.
The plan
- Month 1Write your lists and share them with someone.
- Months 2 to 4Use up what you own. Track every purchase.
- Months 5 to 8Mid-year review. Adjust rules that are not working.
- Months 9 to 12Plan the holidays within the rules. End-of-year review.
Your tracker
Tick off each month
Your progress is saved in this browser only. Nothing is sent to us.
Tips
- Use a "project pan" approach for toiletries and make-up: finish before replacing.
- Borrow, rent or buy used before buying new.
If you slip
One slip in a year is nothing. Review the rule, not yourself.
When you finish
Most people keep some of the rules for good.
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