Exploring conscious consumerism
I recently had the pleasure of being a guest on the Everyday Yellow podcast, hosted by Charisse Williams (link). Our conversation, which will air in the coming months, centered around the Joy of Living With Less — how reducing clutter can bring greater clarity and freedom into our lives.
We also explored conscious consumerism, which is about making thoughtful choices that align with our values and support sustainability. Becoming more aware of what we purchase can help simplify our lives, ensuring that the things we bring into our homes truly serve a purpose.
So, is it as simple as pausing before making a purchase and asking, Do I really need this? Yes and no.
While taking a moment to reflect can be helpful, the reality is that mindful consumption isn't always easy. Many factors influence our shopping habits—advertising, deeply ingrained routines and habits, a fear of scarcity, or even emotions like boredom or loneliness. It's understandable that making changes in this area can feel challenging.
A few things to keep in mind:
Everything we own requires care and attention.
One day, someone else will have to deal with the things we leave behind.
Studies show a connection between clutter and increased stress, particularly for women.
Living in alignment with your values looks different for everyone. For some, it means owning fewer but higher-quality items (such as avoiding fast fashion). For others, it might mean supporting local businesses rather than large corporations. Whatever it means for you, the goal is to create a home and life that feel intentional and fulfilling.
That said, choosing to simplify is a personal decision. If you're content with your space as it is, there's no need to change a thing! But if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by too much stuff and want to make a shift, a great first step is asking yourself before each purchase: Do I truly need this? and Does this align with my values?
No matter where you are on this journey, be kind to yourself. Small, intentional steps can lead to meaningful change.
