My No Buy Year | Quitting Spending Money for a Year

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WHO AM I?
Hey there, I’m Cinzia DuBois. I’m a part-time, self-funded PhD student and KZbinr, Podcaster and writer. I’ve been creating videos for over thirteen years. I discuss productivity, personal development, PhD, academia and mental well-being on this channel. On my main channel, I talk about all things dark and ancient history, literature and folklore.

[@winslow8779]

I do this every other month! Every other month I go on a "spending freeze." If I have something I really want, I put it in my online cart, then wait till my spending freeze is up. Most of the time, I don't even want the thing anymore, and when I do, it's an especially good pleasure to reward myself.

[@Lauren.Wagstaff]

I like this idea

[@ileanaprofeanu7626]

I do this as well, I'm guided by my inner child traumatized by coming from a poor family. I put all I have away and I am a cheap shot, but after a few months I lose the interest to invest in my work so I have to spend some to feel like I'm working for something XD

[@ssymck]

really interesting approach. I am going to try that =)

[@AdventuresAwait123]

Great idea

[@MsLLorena]

What an amazing idea!

[@Sherlika_Gregori]

Get yourself a cup of coffee . Just a treat.

[@debmacie1612]

I have been a huge fan for many years. I did your no buy year in 2020 and when I cut out the many unneeded extras I learned I could afford to buy a house. Which I did, and I love my little place. Now I am embarking on my next no buy challenge. If I buckle down, live frugally and make extra payments I can pay off my house early and retire without a mortgage payment. You have made such an impact on my life. Thank you so much for the wisdom to make these great financial decisions.

[@KatieJane31]

I could see myself not buying material things (for me, hobby stuff, clothes, shoes, random household gadgets), but I feel like I would be missing out on experiences with my family if I didn’t go on trips, visit family, go to the zoo with my kids, etc. Missing out on making memories. But I totally agree with the material unnecessary purchases.

[@lilianab4756]

I agree, but I think Cinzia did mention it looks different for everyone. For example, I love live music and during Covid it was all shut. So now I went to see Culture Club and will be going to an 80's concert. Experiences are great but not every weekend. I would never buy a diamond ring. Couldn't afford it anyways😂

[@phoebebaker1575]

“…having a bit of a nosy browse.” ❤

[@Bmaessg]

And also “they haunt every corner of my house”

[@ivymeganmedicinewoman]

Guilty as charged

[@meggggg]

So wholesome ❤

[@heyhey439]

I'm unemployed right now and living solely on extremely meager savings. It's more and more apparent to me that I spend so much money on things I truly don't need little by little. When I get back to having a small income I hope I never forget and adopt this as a permanent lifestyle.

[@elsitacacahuete427]

Those “free” activities that you mentioned, basically, summarised my late teens and twenties social life. Looking back, those were my best times with friends. All the rest “spending money” times were also good but not as memorable.

[@TheDanishGuyReviews]

I've been cutting down on my excess purchases this year. Keeping a list of the books I've bought has helped a lot. I'll never do an out-right no-buy, I like treating myself too much for that. But listing the titles have helped me actually read the books I've bought.

[@sweetgrasshopper]

I think I'll try making a list like that. Thanks for sharing!

[@daisy41178]

I'm not doing a no-buy but I have been cutting back on impulse purchases after putting myself into debt in my early 20s. One trick I use now is writing down the fun but unnecessary things I really want in a list. If I come into some money later, I can go back to this list of fun things and see if there's anything I still want to get

[@iriswoohoo]

Great tip!

[@can1687]

Me to. Just 1 year to go to be debt free

[@brunaguerra3021]

this is exactly what I needed to watch right now. I keep spending money mindlessly and my excuse is always that I deserve to treat myself after working and studying so much but that leads me to live paycheck to paycheck 🤡

[@bachsdmacncheese1182]

You deserve financial stability and peace of mind

[@Nalijay]

I'm almost 38 and still live paycheck to paycheck. It's a terrible habit to get into.

[@connorjonas862]

I have this same issue :( but one way I found to try to combat it is setting up my direct deposits to put a certain amount of each check on my debit card and that's the only card I can use for fun money so I'm still getting the treats but not going into the red

[@yesjoeri1]

this is basically how i grew up and how i have been living for 27 years and it's been great. I managed to buy a house at 25 alone when no one in my age range is even near buying a house. downside is i dont really know how to spend money

[@mykki.d]

You kind of glossed over this, but it saddens me that you had to go through a breakup during a no-buy year while working on both your phd and youtube channel - and that it had drastic financial consequences as well. Going from sharing rent/bills to not is so costly. You show much resilience. Hang in there. ❤ Your savings will return with time.

[@bewareogre]

I'm glad I'm finding more and more videos about no-buy or low-buy years. I'm officially starting in January but I'm trying now already to fine-tune my rules. My first year I wanna do a low-buy challenge, and then see where it takes me. I'm tired of consumerism and wanna be more mindful of what I have.

[@charlotteandersen48]

I have just found you again here on youtube but around 3 years ago your no buy videos helped me so much and for the first time in my life I started saving my money instead of spending it all and it has completely changed my life. I feel inspired to do a no buy year as well now and I look forward to following your journey. Good luck with your no buy and thanks for all the inspiration ❤

[@witchofthelandandsea4143]

I’m starting right now!❤

[@desireesbooksandcoffee2678]

As a recovering shopping addict, I'm soooo tempted to join you in this challenge! I spent the last year decluttering my house!

[@laceyjo89]

Earlier this year, I had a health situation that depleted most of my savings. I had started my 3rd no buy year and was doing well until that situation. Seeing the money i had saved disappear so quickly was really demoralizing and i became more and more lenient with myself on the rules, even though i should be tightening them because i was so discouraged seeing my hard work undone. Your video was helpful in energizing me to get back on track, so thank you.

[@gabystringer2056]

Could also be empowering to reframe: how your savings protected you from taking on credit in your personal emergency. Well done you

[@finonna6174]

Starting a no buy in the middle of the year propably is more intentional way than new years resolutions. This was a great wake up call, I too study and work part time and need to cut my costs momentarily and we do live in a time of plenty so I think it's doable and propably even healthy!

[@LibraryofAcousticMagic3240]

I also do my finances from september to september. funny how that works

[@tempestholmes]

I'm also inspired. I'm going to try a no-buy month for September. I need to start really small because I am pretty set in my ways. My first victory has been ordering the essentialism book through my library rather than buying it. Books are most likely load bearing structures in my home, my definite downfall.

[@SelfHelpShelf]

Good luck!!

[@bowerbirdstyle7661]

I don't buy cosmetics, I stopped wearing makeup ages ago. I buy skincare when it is on special and I have run out of cleanswr or moisturiser. I stopped paying for haircuts 20 years ago. My weaknesses are clothes shoes and handbags - all of which I buy second hand or half-price sales. There is plenty of ways I can improve. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@user-kd7kk3zb5w]

I had pretty poor childhood and buying things was literally my dream growing up. I ended up wasting too much money on things I don't need just because of "I finally can". It's sad. It's sad how much food I waste because I bought too much and it got bad or the takeaways I didn't enjoy and put it in trash can. Especially remembering how difficult it was back then and how difficult it was and is for my family members.

[@RoyalOui]

I admire your self-discipline and the quality of your channel, Cinzia! Good wishes always....

[@SelfHelpShelf]

Thank you so much!

[@ireneroy8820]

What is this $25? Is that a donation?

[@Akudo__]

Yes

[@CHRowan73]

I did a no buy year in 2020 and saved a good bit of money. I have since slid back into old buying habits, so I will be happy to join you in your no buy year. I will also start in September 2023. I need to take stock of what is important. Buying things isn’t one of them.

[@Sherlika_Gregori]

Christmas shopping is something that makes me ill. I reduced it so much but the people outside look so manic that it affects my mental health.

[@magicalspacegiraffe]

Thank you, KZbin Gods, for suggesting this video! What a lovely and well spoken creator! And this subject matter is quite relevant to me too, even though I was on a fashion video binge when I stumbled across this video. Really made me think a no-buy is something exciting I can try out too, thank you, Cinzia!

[@AylenL]

"Sorry, January babies" 😆 You inspired me to start a no-buy trimester (starting small because I'm not great with self-imposed rules). I've read "The year of less" by Cait Flanders a few times, if you haven't maybe it'll interest you (if your library has it). I'm actually impressed with your self-control and discipline! Your personal finance videos are always a treat, I'm looking forward to an update in the coming months :)

[@phoebebaker1575]

“With [the Holidays] coming up, Capitalism will be at full power.” I imagine an eerie glow behind a Marvel silhouette.

[@sharonlugone5955]

I, too, live on a low income and a tasty pastry lover. My compromise is to make a homemade dessert each week. Cookies, cakes, fruit crisps, and my favorite lemon bars. Once a month I treat myself to a very special chocolate croissant at a favorite coffee shop. I take my journal and sip my coffee, munch my pastry, and fill the pages of my journal with deep and profound ruminations. Because I only indulge once a month, I savor every bite, every sip, and the sheer pleasure of putting my thoughts to paper. ❤

[@karzaaa]

That sounds so nice 🥰

[@erinoquindo3013]

Starting a no-buy before the holiday season is also great because instead of making a purchase for yourself during the end-of-year sale season, you can create a holiday wish list to share with your loved ones. Over time, as you come to realize that certain things aren't actually what you want (with the added pressure that you will only receive some things on your wish list instead of being able to buy them all yourself), you can cull a more valuable wish list, you get things that are useful and meaningful to you as gifts from your loved ones, and you don't end up spending on yourself.

[@PrincessSaskia84]

Hi, Cinzia. This is the type of the content I need. Productivity, frugalness, study etc. Keep up the good job

[@myrdc]

Always love hearing about your finances! It's nice to hear someone approaching the topic with such discipline.

[@WarshMeh]

This is my favorite channel! Thank you Cinzia, you are not only an inspiration but authentic. Never stop being you! love the book!

[@juliannehayford8087]

Your video was in my feed because I've been watching a lot about a no buy year. I'm excited that you're starting it now. I'm prepping to begin my first no buy year in October. I look forward to following along with you.

[@MHBerk]

Yes, you'll nail this! Looking forward to more no buy videos, I'll bee rooting for you (and myself along the way :D). Also - loved the book as well, essentialism speaks to me the most from every life approach I read about so far.

[@afreaknamedallie1707]

I absolutely feel you on both wanting to reel things in a bit and the adhd hobby binge 😅 I'm also trying to get myself to focus on the hobby items instead of going out. I'd love to see what you end up making, if you decide to turn any of it into content!

[@beagle7672]

Cinzia, thank you SO much for making me aware of Greg McKeown's "Essentialism." I listened to it yesterday and was inspired to begin the process of becoming an essentialist. It's funny how you can know certain truths in your head and heart, but sometimes it takes hearing it from someone else to strike that proverbial match of action. And it's not as if I haven't read somewhat similar books. Thanks to McKeown's succinct and powerful writing (and by extension learning of this book from you), I am choosing to take a different path in the coming year. I'm starting a no-buy year now, and I'm doing this just as much for the philosophical as for the financial aspects of life. Thanks for your channel and your input! And all my best wishes for your own endeavors!

[@flowermeerkat6827]

I admire your discipline doing your no-buy year. You've inspired me to follow your lead. I definitely need to sew my stash.

[@SelfHelpShelf]

You can do it!

[@jimbrittain402]

Thank you for your honesty. This is helpful; I need to think about that "buying for others" thing.

[@julianeelter8159]

Thank you for this and for reiterating that it is not only about saving and getting a handle on spending, but also about knowing why you spend on specific things and learning who you are without (over)consumption. I recently spent a good amount of my savings (as I had planned) and since my brain seems to have gone into overdrive on assuming what I can afford… melting my savings further. I need to make some rules and I will be starting a low buy in October :)

[@denisadellinger4543]

Oh my. I followed Hannah Louise Posten and her no buy year. I loved watching her. She learned a lot about herself and her spending. It was a journey we took with her. She had her rules as well. To her, you are a Spartan. Nothing, absolutely nothing. No one little joy that would help you get through this lean time. I've lived most of my life with close to nothing. But never have I ever not denied myself a small joy or experience such as a twilight movie after I got off of work, or just going to the mall and walking through the shops and listen to the music and look at the colorful displays of the newest releases of clothing. I didn't have to buy one thing. I didn't want to buy anything. It was my therapy. If this survival method is palatable to you, then it will work. I hate to think that this your main way of survival and not just a temporary solution for a few months. to get through a rough patch. It's hard being single and living alone. I myself am doing a no buy on clothes and I am cutting back on impulse buying. These hard times require hard measures. I admire your dedication.

[@zabmcauley5647]

I love listening to audiobooks on the Libby app through my public library. There's such a large selection! 😁

[@Noprobllama222]

I’ve been watching these videos about how different people approach their no spend/low spend journey, and all have been very helpful to me. Thank you for mentioning that going through the no buy journey will help you see who you truly are without the subscriptions, mindless shopping, etc. I haven’t thought of it that way, but I’m now more excited to keep going.

[@Caroline-vz4by]

Tremendously inspiring !! I'm excited you are bringing back this series! It is how I originally found your other channel! Good luck xx

[@Kraecha]

How curious, turns out I’ve been living this way for the past decade. Started out of necessity and simply not being able to afford anything but. Then, as my situation got better, I did buy a few “luxurious” items, like a TV and a computer, a few video games (thank you, steam sales!), but I feel like I never fully learned to spend money on myself. Now, 10 years later, I’m moving into my first flat I financed myself. I know we joke about avocado toast and coffee shops stopping people from being able to afford things that boomers got so easily, and while the current economic situation is an absolute tragedy and that joke is a horrible simplification, there is a grain of truth to it. For anyone considering this lifestyle, it has worked well for me, and I wish you all the best pursuing your goals.

[@FaithsAdventure]

I love your videos! It's inspiring to hear how you followed your passions, and worked hard to get there!

[@oliviajones4588]

Thank you for this! So clear and concise. I'm excited to put it into action.

[@airfullofspices]

Thank you so much - I think this book and this method could finally make me feel more focused on the important parts of my life.

[@marthajacobo3519]

I totally agree with you. I am donating clothing and really being minimal, just focusing on discovering my talents as we all should. There will always be too much food , clothing etc, so it won’t go away. Thanks for inspiring and good luck! Merry Christmas & New Year!

[@nonsinesole]

I really like this new content you are putting out, it resonates a lot with what I am going through right now regarding self-budgeting and considering going to grad school or not…

[@rocioiribe5841]

this is a very unique video. i don't think i've seen anyone else connect Essentialism to a No Buy but it makes so much sense.

[@siobhanirish1307]

Yay. I love your idea and all the details you go into about possible things to eliminate or don't even start. I have been doing the same thing, to a lesser degree, for a while now. I think it started with Covid pandemic. It was very easy to not do some things because of hoping to avoid getting sick. I have been using up multiples of items, and sometimes not even replacing them. For me, mostly art supplies. The only things I buy now are glue, paints, not new shades, though, just white when I need it. Well, I could go on, but you get the idea. I loved your video and am inspired to keep on buying even less. Thanks!!

[@krystiesolfyre5340]

Cinzia, I absolutely love your videos. They motivate me so much! Thank you for another wonderful video. 💜😊

[@carochan86]

I love these kind of no buy organization videos from you the most. Being ADHD I am amazed . I have a pile of recipes I havent gone through to examine my budget more. But yeah they are still in the bag. I have different weaknesses for shopping. For me it's food and more clothes recently. Thank you . I hope to hear an occasional update

[@Mkr7942]

Hey Cinzia, Whatever you said here really resonated with me: seeing the savings grow when you freeze the buying, and seeing them dwindle when you start re indulging in even small luxuries: the trickle quickly becomes a stream. Also the bit about an ADHD craft supply binger:). I have just come out of a period of extreme belt tightening, but having just found a job, find myself easing back into my spendy ways. Unfortunately, this is also a period that I need to spend on certain things (I know that 'need' is a relative word, but, for example, some rooms in my new flat don't even have a bulb holder, let alone light, so that is an essential, essentially. But then I find it hard to limit myself just to the basics and find myself looking for nicer light fixtures, lamp shades etc. I also find that I go through phases of shopping for things, but don't necessarily buy the same things: like there would be a craft supply phase, clothes buying phase( during a sale) or a makeup buying phase (only once).

[@debdebberton]

the sheer depth of your willpower on this is obviously worth high praise, no question there. i hqve no doubt in my mind that it helps you achieve many things that few other people could. separate statement, it pains me deeply to hear someone so thoroughly crushed by extreme personal austerity. people shouldn't *_*have*_* to live like this. i'm sorry we both live in the same system that forces people to cut themselves this deeply just to make ends meet. i hope that changes soon.

[@albabee9926]

Absolutely love these kinds of videos cinzia, so inspiring!

[@LittleRedTeaCake]

My weakness is straight up the thrift store. I love it so much, I always have and I love the hunt, but I also know that it's the reason I cannot save my own money. I am fortunate enough that I am a stay at home parent, my husband and I discuss finances regularly to keep each other on track and we both get the same "fun" allowance. It is as equal as we can make it. I did a No Buy month a while back and I'm thinking it's time for me to do this again. I love the idea of starting in September and I truly have plenty of clothes and books (two biggest weaknesses) and I have even more that need to be DIYed or upcycled. I also love your idea of going through all of a project type supplies first and then moving onto the next. I am always all over the place with my hobbies and I have a lot of supplies for them all. Okay, I have one other weakness: I rescue BABs (Build A Bears) from the thrift store. I love this though, I'm going to talk to my husband about maybe both of us should do it. He has some computer things he needs to save for. Thank you for sharing!

[@raedaze]

I used to be the same way with thrifting, but I’ve stopped over the past few months. The places around here have pure junk most of the time and the prices are getting ridiculous too. I just can’t let myself do it most of the time. Also, most of the last items I’ve bought there have been things I wish I didn’t spend my money on and don’t want them anymore. It’s been a struggle lol. I miss the old thrifting times.

[@LittleRedTeaCake]

@@raedaze It is definitely a struggle the quality has gone way down to be excited for anything. I know I am getting spoiled with some of the prices over here in Germany and going back stateside is going to be sticker shock.

[@KathyDoucette]

@@LittleRedTeaCake That's because people are selling their own stuff instead of donating the better items and the reseller KZbinrs bragging about buying something for a $1.00 and flipping it for $100 ruined it for everyone.

[@DuCetteBoss]

Thank you so much for this video! It’s very inspiring. I hope your KZbin channel blows up ❤

[@user-gr9zi7ls3q]

This is a fantastic idea! I'll be joining you on this journey and thanks for the motivation!

[@minorcadence1]

Cinzia, this video has been recommended to me at the perfect time. After saving up obsessively over the last few years to buy a house, I now don't have a clearly defined 'savings goal' and have let my foot off the pedal this year with hobby buying and house decoration/renovation buying. An opportunity has come for me to do a master's degree! But it will need to be entirely self-funded to the tune of £10k, so I will be joining you in the no/low buy year starting now! 💪

[@marialeg2367]

I love this type of content! Good luck on your no buy year!

[@amirkhan-tl5lp]

I needed this. Despite getting my first proper job out of uni I find myself poorer than I ever was a student on the maintaince loan, with rent, all the bills, council tax, and commuting to and from an office in an expensive city. Moreover, learning to drive and have therapy means I have barely any money. However, I do like to spend, and think I could adapt some of these approaches to help feel a bit more solvent. Thank you!

[@rivers4future]

Love this video and amazing content, just what I need during scanning all these debt free videos I found for encouragement

[@lydiarosebrita4901]

This was such an interesting video. I started a no buy plan a couple of months ago and it's definitely a challenge but I think I'm finally in the swing of what's important to me and what isn't. I spend a lot more time being creative and going for walks in nature and making progress towards my long term goals.

[@futoijosei]

I read that book last year (got it at the library). I really enjoyed the way it was written and it made me think about what is essential to me (it honestly made me start to worry that I was turning into a hoarder). I am currently 9 months into a no-buy year (just office/art supplies that aren't necessary, physical books, and no planner supplies -- they're my big 3 on spending things). I haven't really struggled, but I do miss being able to go to the used book store. So I've decided next year, I'll do a one in one out system for new books. That way I can still have new (to me) stuff without worrying about turning into a hoarder. Books just feel so much like a part of me (even ones that I don't own), so I have to be do a haul (library or otherwise) at least once a month.

[@kellychuba]

it's not hoarding if it's books. Books look better than knick knacks!

[@LItachi-ch5sx]

​@@kellychubait is tho, if you buy them and never even read them or simply have too many, it is hoarding

[@beerenmusli8220]

This is a very interesting approach, thank you for showcasing it!

[@DianaWodnoff]

I LOVE this book. I’ve read it every year for the last 3-4 years. Completely changed my perspective on life and relationships

[@mashed1476]

I'm also starting a no-buy in September! today's the first day and it's already tough, lol, but that's exactly why i need it. good luck on our journeys 💪

[@user-ge5dk8qv9p]

Love the book! 🎉 it’s simple and so good to decide what it essential Thank you for sharing !

[@88Marster]

Excellent video, since buying my apartment/flat this became my worldview, serviced me very well for many years

[@alexi5164]

I need this motivation! I’m on maternity leave and my maternity pay is dwindling to nothing 😢 I have remind myself how each penny really does add up. Also just trying to eliminate the habit of doing something like getting a drink at a coffee shop. Now I always bring a flask with me just in case my baby naps when I’m on the go

[@TheSilveryew]

YES! I have been waiting for your budgeting/no spend videos, this has made me so happy, thank you!❤❤❤

[@SelfHelpShelf]

I'm so glad!

[@myja100]

I'm so excited these videos are back! All the best xxx

[@Angietherose]

This video gave me the encouragement and epiphany that I needed. Thank you!

[@sherrainehiggs7380]

Brilliant presentation, discussion. You are very disciplined person. Doing a No Buy month for me will take a lot of hard work, however i will mostly definitely benefit from it, then extend it month by month over these next 4 months.

[@bethaelien]

I found this video today by accident, but it's like it was made especially for me! Your rules are perfect for my situation and I'm going to take part in the challenge of not buying anything for a year with you. And since I'm a teacher and I'm going back to work after the holidays in September, I feel that the best time for "New Year's resolutions" is now :) Recently I've been on a shopping spree and I feel bad about it, so such a detox will be perfect.

[@shadowsatmidnight]

I enjoyed watching along the first time and I am pleased to see you are doing it again ♡

[@Lucyvanb]

Excellent video thank you SO MUCH! I'm going to attempt the no buy year starting now. I feel empowered already! X

[@pabulumm]

Put the book on my library reading list! I've been on a bit of a no buy out of necessity for a few months now but this video's inspiring me to view it differently and I've already reasoned myself out of giving into a labor day sale to buy unnecessary sweaters for the holidays. Who am I trying to show off for at casual family gatherings? I have warm fleeces that will work just fine. Anyway great video, liked and subscribed!

[@princesscatherine]

Thank you for inspiring me! I have a definite shopping addiction and have just started a no buy, which I aim to keep up until April next year.

[@nikiedewael3766]

I found your channel through this subject. Sooo happy with this.❤

[@philurbaniak1811]

👍👍 I've been dabbling in no-buy myself lately and reflecting on the existential stuff has been really interesting!

[@LinyaChan]

This is super inspiring! I am currently studying abroad for a year and traveling a lot since I will probably not have the opportunity to come back to Asia anytime soon, but I will definitely try to make my own not too strict rules here and when coming back to Europe I’d like to expand this! I like this a lot, since I tend to spend money and treat myself randomly after having a bad day/week. And sometimes it really takes over, so I am excited to see how much I will be able to save and change when starting this!

[@NatSciFan]

This is the best video I’ve watched in a very long time. Thank you.

[@sholly1741]

I just found your channel!!! I resonate so much with what you are saying in this video! Many thanks from Australia!!

[@proximacentaur1654]

Great video. It's given me the push I need to try. Thank you!

[@rebeldown771]

I align with this. Been getting a lot of smaller creator videos on my recommended lately. Thanks for being inspiring.

[@dianesellepedrosa1876]

Propagation for your plants is what I was going to suggest! Perfect video.

[@beccacoleman498]

I want to do this! I think I will try easing myself into it this October by eliminating takeaway coffees and etsy purchases, those are my biggest issue right now. Thank you for the inspiration, and bu they way, I LOVE all those books behind you!

[@ColorMeMina]

Thank you for making this video! I get slammed with a lot of algorithm-recommended advice about controlling your money & spending habits, but this video really spoke to me and made me feel empowered

[@CherriesJubilee]

Thanks for this, Cinzia. I am going to look to get this book from the library.

[@Persnikity-yv3nh]

I had to adopt this kind of mindset when I was at my poorest. It totally changed my relationship to consumer goods and made me reevaluate which experiences and things actually add value or fulfilment to my life. I'm not sure I'd go so far as a Buy Nothing Year now that I'm financial stable, but I think I'll always be conscious of my spending and of exploring frugal options like: thrift stores, negotiating down service plans, using locally-offered free resources, applying for support and discount programs I may be entitled to, and borrowing from/lending to/sharing with friends and neighbours.

[@user-br7bm3qo3s]

Great inspiration, I have never been brave enough to do a whole year and tend to do the odd month here and there. Maybe this is the video I needed to inspire me to give it a go 😊

[@morebaileyskim]

This is kind of inspiring tbh. I think I am going to plan doing this through the end of the year. I need to not over commit myself because I am such an all or nothing thinker and I’m trying to be more realistic in my commitments (and interestingly this is resulting in me actually sticking with things more 🤷‍♂️)

[@scarlettpatino2732]

Tip from a theater person: if you want to see a community theater production, see if they accept volunteer ushers to hand out playbills. Typically the ushers are able to sit and watch the show for free

[@ViperBurlesque]

I’m needing to do this! My industry right now is on ice due to strikes and it’s been a long one. My partner is basically doing what you’re doing and I definitely need to hop on the band wagon to make sure my savings last as long as possible (and so I don’t run out! That would really suck)

[@thegrumpygeordie9007]

Similar story, I used to love a drink, I mean I still do but back then I had far less rules on the subject. I was also concerned with the heath detriments. I made some token efforts to ration it but I wasn’t really concerned. Then in lockdown I started having the mid-week 4 pack. It got to the point that if I wanted not to drink I would have to not take my wallet out because I’d go and get a 4 pack. I gained a lot of weight, I wouldn’t describe myself as fat but I was over 16 stone and it was the first time in my life I couldn’t run 3 miles. So I went cold turkey on New Year’s Day 2021 I think. I was sitting thinking about all the money spent on booze and decided rather than having it hanging about I’d start saving. Long story short I lost 3 stone started saving for the first time in my life. I got more money now than I’ve had for most of my life, I’m actually considering decorating.

[@faeriesmak]

I love a good no buy. I look forward to any videos that you make about it in the future!

[@ScarletClarity]

Inspiring as always Cinzia - thank you for an excellent reminder to think about what is essential to my life and what clutters it. I have some thinking to do in September

[@lindabonomi7274]

GREAT video!!!!! I needed this right now!!!!

[@zuzannajabonska9104]

Stumbled across this video by accident and honestly I cannot believe how you did that for a whole year! I could NEVER! Congrats for the self-discipline!