Tempting
Once again we enter the No Spending Days of January. The last couple of months were shopping time. I spent a day at the mall in Lake George, time in local stores and probably the equivalent of a day browsing the computer. I bought myself a needed flannel shirt at the mall, a very discounted dress on line and three pins at a great second hand store in Saratoga. There were probably a few other odds and ends, but that's the most of my shopping that wasn't gifts. All other shopping, especially the day at the computer, went to other people. I feel that I have no more interest in buying things ever, but I know that if I didn't draw a hard line on January 1, I probably would have brought home a few Valentines along with my groceries.
But it's January and I'm going to inventory the Valentines I have left from years past before more cards come into the house. I'm going to go through my drawers before more long sleeve t-shirts arrive in my mail box. I'm going to think twice (or three times) before the new nightgown I've been keeping my eye on is actually ordered. My rules for No Spending January are simple: no new things, which includes clothes, books, household items -- except cleaning supplies -- and all the miscellaneous that is just so easy to buy. I will pick up a prescription tomorrow, but while I'm at the pharmacy no half-price holiday decorations will also come home with me.
There are exceptions besides cleaning supplies, notably food. But I'm going to track my grocery spending this month to get a baseline for the year and I'm going to be more aware of my eating out expenditures. "Experiences" are also not included. I'm thinking of movies, theater and travel, in January and the future.
I do have one "thing" that I am exempting from No Spending, a very cute decorative penguin I saw in December. It was a little pricy, but if it's still in the store and if it's in the ten dollar range, my penguin friend will be coming home with me. This isn't an impulse purchase. I've been thinking about it for a month.
Anyone else joining me?
Despite the freezing (literally) weather in New York City, the beginning of the year is off to a good start. I've been to the gym, spent time with friends, walked 7+ miles and saw a movie that I liked very much today, The Choral. Tomorrow is a "catch up" day, and I plan to read, do some walking, and catch up on blog and Instagram comments. What are your Sunday plans?
As ever, thanks for visiting and keep cozy.
15 comments
I don't need much of anything anymore. So I don't shop unless I need something. I love sales, but sometimes I buy more than I need. Better to save my money for something I may need.
Beautiful blog
Please read my post
I do like the idea of saving money any time of the year, Carol. Good for you keeping such discipline as the New Year unfolds. Blessings!
No spend January sounds like a great idea, but I need to start in February because I've already been shopping at Amazon.
The thing I have a hard time of not buying is yarn!! :)
I only spend money on things that I actually need unless it's for Christmas or a birthday.
I think "no spend January" is a great idea! Thanks for the inspiration, but I think I already blew it on some great "after Christmas deals" and a new laptop computer!
I will pretty much do the same. I have a small trip to Maine for a few days, and thrift stores do not count in the no spend January.
Cathy
I'm trying for the dry January. Difficult when I'm with friends not to have a bit of wine. But I'll try.
No spend January is a good idea too. We just had to cancel one of our credit cards because someone got a hold of it somehow and charged over $3000 to Microsoft! We caught it because Dan gets a notification whenever it's used. This has happened too many times and usually after a purchase at Home Depot!
My husband is doing dry January and hopefully it will continue into another month. I am also working on no spending and will only be buying home essentials. If you do buy that cute penguin, when it's discounted, please do post a photo!
I'm doing a mostly no-spend January. My exemptions are gifts (I have a couple of Christmas things I need to get and deliver this month as last month slowed me down); medication and medical expenses; food; experiences, pet food. Like you, I don't need one more long-sleeved top and I have enough books to last a lifetime (though I might use my credit at the bookstore, but that'll be free.) It's a good month to reset.
I really admire your intentional approach, it’s inspiring to see someone set clear boundaries with spending while still valuing experiences and meaningful purchases. Your reminder that moderation and mindfulness matter over impulse really resonates, and it’s such a practical way to start the year with gratitude and focus.
I’ve just shared a new post as well, and you’re very welcome to stop by and read it when you have a quiet moment.
I have some family birthdays in January so will be spending on gifts. However, it's always good to be careful with your spending.
All the best Jan
I'm doing no spend January as well.
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