NO-BUY JULY: HOW DID IT GO? CHECKING IN ON THE LAST DAY OF THE MONTH

[@Ryanneey]

So I mentioned my attempts at a no-buy and my online window shopping with my therapist. I talked about wanting to be more mindful with my time and money, and she came up with an idea. She challenged me to continue my online browsing but when I am tempted to checkout, instead, take that money I would have spent and place it in a savings account for something I am working towards. In my case, it's a house. After one week, I already have 180$ dollars in it. It's a fun challenge and made me think of you 😊 sorry about the novel

[@HannahLouisePoston]

awesome! I love this idea!

[@alice_rabbit8345]

That’s awesome!

[@Ryanneey]

❤ thanks

[@RedRvmm]

That is SUCH a good idea!!

[@vanessawatkins7482]

Mine said the same thing!!! Saving money to go back to Disney for my son when he's in remission from liver cancer! That's all he wants & he's been through it! I can stop buying makeup to give that to him.

[@RK-re1wm]

Reading as escapism is sooo good. I feel like I can process my emotions through the emotions of the characters. "A good book doesn't make you cry, it lets you cry"

[@shironerisilk]

I'm starting no-buy August tomorrow, my first ever, and it feels very scary-not because I can't live without buying stuff, but exactly for the fear that I will break down without any kind of escapism. So this video came exactly in the right moment since I was planning to escape into reading/writing/watching my movie list. Feeling a bit more encouraged now!

[@sandysmith8377]

Good to have a plan! Good luck 😉☺️🇨🇦

[@faeriesmak]

You can do it! What helped me was a mindset of knowing that I WOULD be successful instead of always thinking that I hoped that I would be successful.

[@alainapotaduh]

I'm doing a no-buy August too. I even made sure to buy my kids' school supplies a few days ago (and I did it online, so no trips into Target necessary!) I've also started a 14 week cleaning challenge for the second time this year (it starts annually in January, but I can never get the garage done because it's still cold when that week comes up, so I'm doing it in reverse!) so I can really minimize my possessions even more before the snow flies. I know if I truly need something, my Buy Nothing group has me covered! Good luck!

[@angietorres1421]

Good luck. I’m just finishing no buy July and I’m not going to lie, it was hard. Mostly because I tried a no buy January and since I failed horribly I thought I couldn’t do it. My biggest recommendation is to get an accountability partner. My best friend kept checking on my and yesterday she called in to remind me July is 31 days and to congratulate me on accomplishing this. You got this one!

[@Letty4]

You're going to do great! We're all cheering you on!

[@MakeupandMentalHealth]

So I recently made a cross country move, and prior to the move, I was super strict with my buying. Then once we got here far from family, shopping in a new area and receiving mail became my connection to joy pretty quickly. Now I am about to start reeling myself back in and going on a purchasing pause for the next few months to reset my little gremlin brain. Best of luck to anyone else who is in the process.

[@nuchithoj]

Your entire look is FABULOUS! Hair, makeup, clothes, accessories - *chef’s kiss* - PERFECTION. I’m living for it!

[@anxious_apparition]

I started a no-buy July but had a big 'ol freak out over some chronic health issues and bought a TON of journaling supplies and a Kobo Libra 2 to make myself feel better. Now I'll have plenty of stuff to do during my no-buy August. 🤣

[@kallistoindrani5689]

I really enjoy these No Buy videos! And wow, her look in this video is AMAZING!!! I started my no buy on August 1. And then, at the end of that day, I was online and placing an order in two different shops because those were 'exceptions' and things I really 'needed'. It took me an hour to realise how ridiculous I was acting. I planned to do a no buy month and would already spend around 330 euros on things I 'needed'. I went back to my laptop and canceled both orders and I feel so proud. Do I need some of those products, Yes. Do I need them right now? No, I'm sure I can wait a month. It's things I use but that aren't completly out yet and even if they do, I think I can survive a month without them. 🤞😊

[@unispeck2853]

Whenever you say 'angry eyes', I just think of that scene from Toy Story 2 with Mr Potato Head shouting 'Prepare to meet my angry eyes!'

[@sandysmith8377]

Escapist Reading. Sounds divine. Over the pandemic I started listening to audio books and “read” several. I have really enjoyed listening to the authors read their own words. I chose audio books because I couldn’t concentrate on actual reading and I was walking a lot, so I took the books with me. But I can’t curl up with an audio book. My shopping is in control but I am becoming more easily influenced by social media and I think “escapist reading” is in order to transition myself to a new…I’m not sure what…but this video makes me think: start now, have patience, figure it out later. Love your words, as always ❤️🇨🇦.

[@blendofdays]

As someone who is guilty of soothe shopping way too often, I fully appreciate these vids from you. Thank you 🙌💜

[@oliviaj4986]

this video made me emotional ngl. i think a lot of us can relate to the idea of clinging to unhealthy escapist coping mechanisms to keep us safe from dealing with pain. i did for a really long time but finally dealt with it and im a completely different person than i was like 2 years ago. i really resonate with what you said about slowly coming back to a person you know in yourself. i’ve been trying to escape lately and it gives me that fear that im somehow back to who i was, but it’s not true. i guess for anyone else who can relate, it’s good to know that a lot of other people are feeling the same way.

[@nillavanilla989]

Your no-buy July helped me stick to my no-buy year for blushes, eyeshadows, and lipsticks during all these summer sales and national lipstick day sales lately 😅🤗

[@iuliatanase5755]

After discovering your no buy playlist, this is my first time watching your video as a successful nobuy-er. Full one month done and continuing into a year hopefully:)

[@lolaphearse3688]

Congratulations! Wishing you success!

[@antiblisss]

Succes!

[@nicolebrennan4200]

So inspiring! Im calling my journey "use it up" as in my head it's less restrictive. Goal is to continue this journey until Dec 2023. But I will need to buy replacements of course but I'm really pushing myself to see where substitutes are in my house. My substitute has started to be jigsaw puzzles vs reading. Wish me luck! ❤️

[@christyfielding7498]

Reading has always been my top stress relief, escapism. I've been a voracious reader since I was a teen. How much I read and the types of books I'm into have changed throughout my life but I always come back to it. Right now I love what most would probably call trashy but that's ok. I enjoy a good trashy, I don't have to think much book.

[@karmaleenash2841]

I failed my no buy July because of Hannah! But it was worth it. I had to order Salt New York. And fell in love! The complexion colors are the best I have ever found for my odd skin. But the fail was an intentional one. I had a hole in my collection, and filled it. 🦋🦋🦋 ps: books have saved my life, literally, more than once. One was Temple of my Familiar by Alice Walker. Another was Little Women when I was twelve. Books ARE medicine.

[@alice_rabbit8345]

I used to be a voracious reader. Since I suffered a traumatic event a few years ago I have a hard time concentrating. My brain can’t focus. I work in my garden when I need to do something relaxing and escapist.

[@jilljahns8406]

What a lovely way to start a Sunday morning! I used to be a voracious reader, but I work in health care and when the pandemic hit I lost all time for anything else. Then, I lost my desire. I want to get back into reading and I adore the Mary Russell series. Dipping back into the habit with a well loved series sounds like a good place for me to start. Thank you for the unintentional inspiration!

[@darcyreadssometimes3904]

Indeed, a no-buy won’t fix the political landscape, but I’m glad that you’re feeling a bit more yourself. 🙏🏻

[@rovingrhea]

I'm proud of you for seeing your patterns and correcting behaviours you don't want to be doing before you really start spiralling. I think it's very human to want to do a 180 - to change all the parts of ourselves that we want to change all at once, the moment we become aware of them. But I don't think that's always possible, and we have to give ourselves grace for trying and failing. The body wants to be safe, and in today's climate, you rarely feel safe at all, so I think many of us are experiencing sneaky coping mechanisms popping up here and there. We'll just have to try to find ways to take care of ourselves and the ones we love, and I really do appreciate you talking about these things.

[@christierochon6819]

Finally checking in about ‘our’ no-buy July- While watching your check-in videos, I was amazed at the many times my inner voice was saying “me, too”!!! It was wonderful having so much ‘free’ time and hubby and I used the time (together!) to do some yard manicuring and readying for our long awaited sunroom to begin. That’s a saga for another day:-/ This video couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment as I found myself salivating to shop on July 31st. How fickle our brains can be when it comes to whatever addiction we may have. Lying in wait for the moment to take back control. Hannah to the rescue! Thank you for all of the ‘tools’ you share to get through this! Beekeepers Apprentice is what I’m falling asleep to and listening to as I work throughout my day (am retired). Thanks Hannah!!

[@GeeSmith333]

Girl, I struggled. The indies are all releasing their new singles collections this month. However I was able to channel this mindfulness into other parts if my life ie cleaning up and deactivating social media accounts, yard work, exercising more. I was able to put the new releases into perspective; I already have a version of the single shadows I like, I literally have every color of blush that goes with my skintone, I don't wear liquid lipstick etc. Actually managed to use some of the makeup I bought this year so far, which is more than I bought all of 2020 and 2021. I'm glad we embarked on this journey. 💜💜💜

[@silkehuybrechts7832]

Oh Hannah, I just love the way you talk about books and literature. It actually made me quite emotional, because reading used to be my favourite form of escapism, but lately my anxiety has gotten so bad that I have trouble reading. Every time I start reading, I realise I've gotten to the end of the page without having the faintest idea what I've read. My eyes are reading, but my thoughts are wondering off (and with 'wondering' I definitely mean 'spiraling'). The Beekeeper's Apprentice sounds like it's right up my street, so I would love to give it a try and see if I can get over this reader's block. That is if I can find them anywhere in Belgium!

[@kristin7762]

Oh god, I totally relate to this. I find myself having to read a page 3 times, rewind my audio book a minute or two, or even rewind a tv show because I’m too anxious to pay attention. Even escapism can be a struggle sometimes 😊

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I know what you mean! My experience is that if you take a long break from reading, sometimes it can take a few days for the "muscle" to get strong again. But for me, if I push through a day or two of mind-wandering reading and just keep pulling my focus back to the page, suddenly it just clicks and then I'm reading like I used to with no problem

[@fourducksoriginal]

Wow, I could have written this, but you did me the favor of articulating it perfectly, so I need not add to your testimony. Thank you.

[@gomigomi1072]

Going August to black Friday on beauty to change how I spend my time. I have been ending up in a similar space of spending tons of time online shopping and it's been getting in the way of all my goals for this year. Thanks for this final check in

[@Safaura]

Oh em geeeeeeh I would love this metaphorical tango video... 🧐🧐🧐

[@alygray8779]

Hi, as a librarian -- I understand the appeal of books as an escape -- one other benefit of reading is expanded empathy. Studies have shown that fiction helps build empathy -- perhaps even for oneself. Maybe you needed this time to help you find compassion for yourself, in a crazy world that seems truly chaotic right now -- I think books can truly heal -- thank you for this challenge and your honesty.

[@emo333vampire]

i once learned that reading fiction can increase the capacity for empathy. the world could certainly use more readers than shoppers, in my humble opinion. a treat as always to listen to your thoughtful musings. thank you for sharing 💙

[@hannahm3126]

I've taken the time to do a no buy that works for me to element my biggest problem spending, it's been exactly what I needed. I feel confident I can even longer now it's August and I am challenging myself to see how long I can go.

[@Mina_Susnjevic]

Thank you for checking in and sharing your reflection ☺️ For me, unfortunately, July was a low buy not no buy. I slipped twice but decided it’s still ok. I will however continue this challenge throughout August and do my best to not slip again. I am proud of the progress I made and as you I dived into books. In August I plan to revive my drawing hobby. Fingers crossed. Thanks again! Great styling! Fabulous!

[@sofie.h]

Hannah, your channel is one of the few I follow where I watch every video, even if the title makes it sound initially not so relevant to me, because I still love to listen to you share your process and way of thinking! Like in this video, where because I haven't been on a no-buy and don't have that kind of relationship with shopping, a check-in isn't necessarily essential for me to watch - BUT I deeply resonated with what you said about reading as escapism, and really appreciated your explanation of why it *is* different, and more valuable to the inner self, to escape via words rather than shopping or an endless scroll. This way of thinking will help me be gentler with myself the next time I find myself in a bout of obsessive reading. So, thank you for that

[@romanticashale]

Escapist reading is my song. I’m a 15-30 books a month kind of person and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I don’t consider any time spent reading to wb a waste. I hate the “literature” discussion around books, especially when it’s used to discount genre fiction. Genre fiction does just as much work as “lit fic” and I think it’s extremely beneficial for everyone to engage with. There’s value in stories in every form.

[@helenlamer8622]

I did it with you! I did buy one chapstick which I couldn’t find anywhere for the longest time, so when I saw I just bought it. Technically my rules were no make up or clothes so it‘s on the border there, next time I’ll make the rules more clear. Nothing else though. It felt weirdly freeing and I immediately stopped browsing websites as well, as if something was making me do it before. I think I’m gonna incorporate no-buy month here and there to just relax from shopping altogether. Thank you for inspiring me!

[@carolinek2446]

Chapstick doesn't count. 😆

[@haleymilbrodt8080]

When it came to my no-buy July, it really caused me to recognize that I actually can't afford new makeup right now, just in general. It was strikingly similar to the revelation you had about your makeup budget it 2018. I am just not in a place where the funds to buy new makeup and to indulge in other things is there. If I want to buy new makeup, I have to choose between makeup and going out to dinner with a friend every once and a while, or between makeup and going to see a movie, etc. And honestly, makeup would come second on that list almost every time because I already have so much that it seems silly to buy more and give up time with friends and family or going somewhere and taking a little break from my busy life. This is also just an extension of my no-buy-shadow year which ends September 1st, where I'm not buying any eyeshadow. And it's really just reminded me that every time I go through my collection, it's ridiculously large. And occasionally there might be things that intrigue me or things that seem "better" than what I have but in general I have the tools to make almost any eye look I want and I'm not using makeup or eyeshadow enough to constantly hit pan or use products up anymore. It's a long slow process where things may or may not go bad now just because I don't have the time for makeup. So if I buy something, I have to commit to being okay with that and I'm just not. So I think with the exception of complexion products (it's not a big issue for me and I don't really have ANY in my collection currently), I'm just gonna continue a no-buy.

[@tealdragon]

OMG, now I need a tango performance. 😀

[@BelleStreetBoyz]

Thank you so much, Hannah!! 💜🤗 I was actually shocked at how much I've been struggling with No Buy July. I'm chronically broke, and not much of a regular shopper by nature, but for some reason I just wanted to go nuts and buy the whole world this month. It's been rough. 😕 However, as an avid HLP viewer, I know I need to give myself some grace, and make a plan on how I'm going to proceed for the rest of the year. Sometimes it feels like I have a little Hannah on my shoulder! lol Thank you so much for sharing your journey this way and inviting us to be a part of it. Even just having the language to better explain my goals to people around me has been SO HELPFUL - there was more than once this month where a friend gently reminded me that my behavior wasn't on par with No Buy July (once as I was handing my credit card to the cashier! lmao). It's been great to feel like I have the support of those around me after explaining the spirit of the project. You're the best, girl! Thank you so much for all you do for this community! 😽💜🌻🦋✨

[@audreyraye3145]

I also did the no buy July with you, and I feel the same way! After the first week I seriously didn't think I would go a whole month without buying something. Then there was a period sometime mid-month where I had no desire to even look or think about shopping. Other things in my life took priority and I knew makeup wasn't it. I am excited to purchase in August because I'm out of makeup removing balm and it is my birthday month. However, I've noticed I'm less tempted to scroll through Instagram or KZbin for makeup reviews, or to look at Ulta or Sephora. I'm making a more conscience decision to use what I have instead of constantly buying.

[@RedRvmm]

Im a month into my first no buy year thanks to you. And, it's amazing. I'm not browsing stuff online, I'm avoiding emails and things that make me want to shop. And I did it to try and afford some other things that I've wanted, so now I'm back in some self defense classes and about to have my eyesight corrected!! Thank you so much for sharing this, all of your no buy content and the concept. It's life changing! Much appreciated. 💜😁👏🏻

[@rhiannonsalt]

Thank you so much for sharing this!! I’m currently doing a low buy because of your videos- i have a lot of medical debt I want to get out of and I’ve been realizing as someone who works full time, is chronically sick, and is in college, because I rarely have time to finish a creative project (and also need to work on boundaries so that I do finish them) I’ve been spending money on things because it feels like “Im starting a project” like with makeup, with buying things for a hobby, with books etc. i just did the “make your own palette” and it was so fun!!!! All of this is to say, thank you for doing what you do, and also love ur outfit so much!

[@Keriedawayy]

I have been watching along this series and I heard your episode on How To Save a Planet and I am grateful to have you as a guiding light. I have always felt controlled by my spending and now, not as much. Do I still want things? Absolutely, but its more time, its more cooking with my boyfriend, its to go to the beach with my friends. I had less fantasy in planning and more actual events I attended. I think as I sat down for makeup playtime and reading more than endless shopping scrolling, it put into perspective what I value and therefore, what purchases could wait.

[@elizabethjoslin156]

Love this! Reading has been my escape since childhood, and I am glad to be back in it. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Love your channel and its uniqueness.

[@NoDecaf7]

I don't normally find it necessarily to curb my spending, I went through that process when I started bringing in items to my home with intention (avoiding the 'minimalism' term, I don't define myself that way, everyone's definition is different so I avoid it). I've found that in watching your No Buy, I've been doing a lot of thinking about my spending, and I'm finding that the scarcity thing really applies to me. When I'm fighting the urge to buy something, usually it is something marketed as Limited Edition, or it is from a brand that sells out quickly once they stock, etc. When you started talking about reading, I relate to that through playing The Sims, I tell a lot of stories, play out a lot of scenarios, and when I can get into a building a house, being able to tell the stories of the sims who live there through decor. It is an escape. Reading just never quite got me there. I have probably just not found the right author for my taste, or spent enough time reading as an adult. I'd much rather be behind the pen (or keyboard)!

[@eleanorandrews6048]

I'm starting a no - buy August tomorrow since July I had alot of updating in my home because I had a budgeted to do list for updating my home and thus had money saved up for this.But in order for me to stop shopping for this unnecessarily cause I have the money for it ,this no - buy August is very important to keep be aligned with my goals that I had set up for me for the end of the year.Wish me luck 🙏

[@corriemcclain7960]

My no buy was going really easy until the last week of July and then .... well I didn't buy anything but browsing and wanting was constant. Yesterday I started digging into what happened and I think it's because of where I am in physical from recovery from surgery. I'm at that point where I'm not sleeping all the time... my brain is awake and wants to do something, but my body can't do anything. Knowing that I'm hoping will make waiting until I can do my hobbies again easier. My no buy will continue and hopefully go back to being easier soon

[@HannahLouisePoston]

[@TheStitchWitchPodcast]

this video is so fortifying. thank you so much for checking in and doing this kind of meaningful, emotionally poignant content that touches so many of us

[@voodookitty2137]

No-buy july has done what I hoped it would, it has helped me see my things in a new light and reset my priorites, when it comes to my spending. I now feel ready to make clearer disscisions. That's why I join in on this project and am very happy with just how much I got out of it.

[@kira5612]

I immediately grabbed myself a coffee and snack when I saw you posted :D I am starting my financial detox (no buy) for August tomorrow. I also decided to start keeping a journal during my no buy so I can sort of track and better understand where my emotions are throughout this detox. Also I am getting ready to start reading The beekeeper's apprentice! It seemed like such a lovely story, and something to inspire me for when I write my novel during NaNoWriMo. Before I forget I did want to recommend the Flavia De Luce mysteries and also the No.1 Ladies detective agency :)

[@killershrimpx]

I love how you articulate the self analysis of your shopping habits and all your feelings about them. I started watching in 2018 and it helped me so much with my own out of control spending. Like you, I am now at a stage when I can recognize old feelings and catch them before they get out of hand. So thank you for helping me create a kinda third eye with which to see theses things x

[@elenamrzva]

Reading is for sure a serious escapism thing for me and always has been. The way some folks binge watch TV, I will read, often things I’ve read before or series or crap romance novels. Audible makes it worse because I don’t have to stop if I’m driving or cleaning. I will read for days at a time, ignoring work and other people, or basically not at all. I’ve never met anyone else who has read the beekeeper’s apprentice though!

[@eisdamme]

As an autistic person, escapism (reading, writing, rp, listening to music, daydreaming, watching things, fandom, and sometimes podcasts) is my love language, my best stim, and though it might look like I'm withdrawing/withdrawn, it is an absolute joy for me and is when I am my happiest.

[@lsal4260]

I did two weeks of no buy July (my first ever) and then decided to break it with one purchase, which lead to many more purchases. Going to plan for a three week no buy soon and create some better boundaries going into it.

[@alicemlovegrove]

No-buy July worked well for me financially, although similarly I sought escape in other things. The beginning of the month was busy with productive and worthwhile things, but the last ten days were a full on retreat into fantasy land (I started watching the series Supernatural in June, but really binged this last week or so, even though I found it immensely irritating about 67% of the time). And today I bought Meet Me In Berlin from Lisa Eldridge's new collection, because I promised myself I would, were it still in stock at the end of the month. Ha. So, yes, I'm still seeking a better balance, but I feel more like a human than I did before, so that's good.

[@Alexandra_1990]

This is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing what is going on inside of you. Makes me feel understood somehow. Have a wonderful week 😊

[@heathernasal]

Hannah, I always appreciate your videos. It has made me so much more conscious of my shopping habits and the consumerism traps I let myself fall into. I always say to myself "wishlist and wait" now and it has helped SO MUCH. Thank you!

[@SqueletteCoolBeauty]

I have to thank you Hannah for your channel. I have been through a 6-month no-buy not being an avid spender on makeup but just struggling with desire to constantly buy especially as a therapy, and buying more makeup that I could use (I love makeup but do not wear some everyday). The no-buy ended with my birthday where I could buy something, and I feel like I am capable of enjoying makeup that I own way more than I used too. I want to do another one to help me more. Thank you so much for your advice and sharing your experience

[@emkester]

I can’t tell you how much this video speaks to me! I’m at the beginning of my 6 month no-buy (started in July) and escapism is the name of the game for me at the moment! Thank you for putting into words the nuanced feelings being on a no-buy entails! You’re the best!

[@Lashlove16]

I love your channel I often feel that getting a sample or playing with it helps not buying so much I also come to terms that I am basic and that’s ok so I am ok with one foundation, one red lipstick etc Having less makes it fun getting ready as I am so much faster Thanks for helping us all keep within budgets

[@goldengrace2833]

Thank you so much for this. Shopping and novels are my flavors of escape at this phase of my life too. So helpful to hear your incredibly eloquent description.

[@Vampireprice]

I’m still feeling the urges to shop. I still window shop on apps like Depop or stare longing at long coveted things, like a Selkie dress. But I’ve focused a lot more on video games, reading, and even embroidery. I’ve felt myself counting down the days to August for when I could shop again, which is unhealthy and your video helped me realize that. You expertly reminded us that we can cultivate ourselves and our self expression through hobbies or stories. I desperately needed that. I’ll continue this no-buy into August, with some caveats. The biggest being if I absolutely can’t resist a new article of clothing, I’ll take some of my older pieces to the tailors or a pair of shoes to the cobbler so I can wear them again. Literally shop my closet.

[@GillenMeg]

Maybe you could even learn to repair you older clothes yourself if you don’t already know how - spend less money on a tailor and work on a new skill!

[@Vampireprice]

@@GillenMeg oh absolutely! I have started to do that with some pieces, but these are massively oversized clothes that require a lot of sewing knowledge I don’t have atm. I do want to sew my own clothes someday. I’d love to be able to make Selkie style dresses on my own.

[@GillenMeg]

@@Vampireprice that would be awesome!!

[@mimoe25]

Girl i love the way you explain things. I had mixed success with no buy july, but im doubling down for a august no buy and i do feel much more mindful about where when and if i spend. Thanks for the content💜💜💜

[@JessicaArchote]

I love the depth of the video. I am also mildly distracted by how you have made a whole look. It’s next level doing the most !

[@Robin-no8cu]

Loved the Bee Keepers Apprentice! I’ll have to catch up on the rest of the series. Thanks for sharing! Looking fab today!

[@ruthbarker3400]

Thank you so much Hannah :), i'm 2 months into my no buy...and came seriously close to falling off the wagon today. Thank you for putting my cravings and escapism back into perspective, you're honesty has allowed me to look at myself deeper and not hit the buy button :)xx

[@belerinah]

Hannah, please please please PLEASE give us some book recommendations because I also very much need them. Sending love to you.

[@kathrynnielson5689]

Totally relate to this. I have read so many books this year. Some deep and some fluff. All needed to escape the crazy. I also started a no-buy August and have been keeping a list of everything I would have bought mindlessly had I not stopped myself b/c of the no-buy. I feel better already b/c I feel more in control.

[@emma.geebee]

You are always a breath of fresh air. I love this video, the concept, and hearing your experience.

[@melinam7216]

That headband is making me want to buy 😩🥰

[@rewfrog]

your ethical conceptual frameworks (about the effects of reading vs shopping) are so. good!!

[@rowan7727]

Oh, I love the Beekeeper's Apprentice series. I've actually been eyeing them on my shelf lately. Might be time to revisit.

[@Rachel-lq8sc]

I don’t have issues with overspending, but this video made me think about intentional ways I can add in self care (even if it’s not fun in the moment). I have also been reading more but I think I have to get outside in nature more to feel more grounded. You also always inspire me to use what I have. I have four eyeshadow palettes total. Today I mixed up a custom pastel green eyeshadow on the back of my hand using a dark green, a white and a yellow, so I could do a pastel wash on the lids with some winged eyeliner!

[@mrgvclara]

My six month no-buy was so useful. About three months was what it took. I am two months post, and their have been a few moments, but mostly sensible behavior. My other big escape is also reading, but I refuse to apologize for that, and I love Laurie R. King. I was raised in a household where taking significant amounts of time to read was encouraged, but I do try to up my fiber and nutrient intake by including poetry, more challenging literature, etc.

[@cecileganel]

No buy July went smashingly for me. - I saved the entirety of my spending budget. - I rediscovered my love of reading in March and have done really well with reading this month. I read my entire TBR stack and purchased a new book, that I finished on Aug 1! - I decided against buying any sanctioned replacements for the month. Now that we are in august, I’m still debating on purchasing them (expect vitamin C serum… I’m getting that *very* soon). - I spent $0 on groceries! Ate through a good bit of the pantry. I was able to clean it out, donate some canned goods, and start fresh. I’m being very mindful of my grocery purchases now. E-cart pickup has been amazing for sticking to my budget. - My July wishlist for wishlist and wait is…… long. And I’m seriously considering reimplementing an old strategy that I used in 2019/2020 (until the pandemic). Which is wishlisting all month, then in the following month making an approved shopping list from last months wishlist. (With the exclusion of true replacements of course). I haven’t officially put this strategy in place yet, but I’m leaning towards it. I’m thankful for our nonbuy July journey, together!

[@msbellydancagirl]

I did pretty well this month..I returned my last order and I add stuff to my cart but haven't checked out and trying my best not to. New releases do temp me. This is the first time I had self control though. I've used a credit card and got into some debt due to makeup and skin care. I stocked up on some favorite items, I have what I need. Next, I need a good book.

[@brittanynorman9106]

Due to a change in job i had actually been shopping for things at a crazy level when you first mentioned the no buy July thing. so i decided to go along with it. I'm glad i did. while i still feel i need a few things, i know i don't need them right away and have a better understanding of what i need. and i was brought into a clarity that got me to unsubscribe from a subscription box i had been getting for years

[@kamloopscruiser874]

I was enjoying re reading CS Lewis’s Sci Fi trilogy, written in very tough dark times during WW2 while his friend Tolkien was writing The Lord of the Rings. Which I re read every few years and is up next along with the Narnia series. However I did bust off my resolutions and bought a Lys serum foundation.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

this is a great rec!

[@swe3tpeach]

There are soooo many nonfiction books that I want to read because my brain feels like a sponge for all the knowledge all the time and I've found the tip of listening to nonfiction on audio books and reading physical copies of novels and it's been amazing. I've been trying the no-buy and reading and video game escapism has been incredible for me too.

[@jeanneobbard]

I got totally into the Louise Penny books this month, and for the same reasons! I've spent far too much time reading them, but I just let myself.

[@Safaura]

This is the most beautiful outfit that I have seen all day 🤩

[@lisacombs4634]

I adore the Beekeeper’s Apprentice books! I knew we had a lot in common! So glad you’re rediscovering yourself through this transitional month. Rock on, Hannah!

[@daniphelan9200]

I joined in with No buy July , I had been on a beauty low buy since January, the year before was a complete no buy for skincare, I found NBJ to be a challenge at first. It did give me time / head space to assess my feelings and habits. Instead of scrolling through retail websites I took that time to have a declutter and a play, I also found like every site and it’s mother decided to have a massive sale in July 🥹 That was the most challenging part, I took the opportunity to unsubscribe from most mailing lists and do a clear out of my mailbox.

[@millieonaire7212]

ive been doing no buy july! its going on into no buy august, but i am going to gently adjust my rules for august and see how it goes ☺️ making some things stricter like going from no online shopping to no shopping in person, and some things more relaxed, letting myself get take away once every two weeks

[@MargoSickele]

I so appreciate your openness and honesty about all of the things that are wrapped up in your shopping and buying. I see so many people commenting that they are thinking and feeling the same things. It also helps to know that I am not alone in all of this. I am still working through the shame of my consumption. I have been so tempted...and I had one exception in my rules, which, of course, came available (a pre-loved pink lady dior medium bag in my price range...which I have been searching for for years!!). While I'm SOO thrilled to have finally found it, it felt like cheating, even though it was a pre-planned exception. I'm hoping that's a good sign :-). I appreciate this reminder that you needed a full six months to see the shift in how you thing about buying things, and really getting to the root of the why. I have REALLY focused on your discussion about temptation and slipping. I hear your voice in my head when I am slipping past temptation into buying (yes, I see you, new Lisa Eldridge lipsticks!!!), and refocus my dedication to change. And then I go back and look at what I already have, and revisit and appreciate all of that, including things that I have that I have not yet opened. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

[@saifatima]

Thank you for this video! I really connect to all you said thanks to the nuanced, vulnerable, vibrant way you described your feelings and that relationship between the inside and the outside world. I love watching your content and knowing about your varied experiences in life, that are oddly similar to mine (performing, academia, love for beutiful things) 🌺🌟🌊

[@Letty4]

I did a no-buy in July and it was challenging for the first 10 days, but not as hard after that. I really noticed how often I would go to websites looking for something to buy just because there was a sale, even if there wasn't anything I was needing or even wanting. It's nice to spend a lot less time thinking of how to spend money!

[@livbeauty7921]

Loved this video. The shopping siren fails at her attempt to lure you. She has gotten many before you and she will try to pull more into her wiles. She will beckon and call again but you will answer only when YOU are ready. That choice to answer is what disarms here and she can make the unassuming shopper swiped their card to their death or debts :) You look beautiful!!!! there is truly no one like you on youtube Hannah. Your personality , content and thoughtful deep dives. You truly are unique.

[@theclairemalkie6496]

Thank you for your perspective! I always feel so grounded after watching your check in videos

[@abe5849]

I appreciate your book suggestions and words about how reading can be healing.

[@katiesavard5640]

Hannah this was such a beautiful video, thank you so much for your content! I love the way you express yourself, and my heart throbbed when you described things that literature does for us!!!!

[@Impassion]

I’m on a no-buy. I bought two musical instruments recently and that was all the money I should have saved this month. Now it’s a little slower at work and I’m gonna be cautious. Truly, I don’t need anything. I already have enough of everything. I’m very blessed.

[@Ohnoitsruthio]

I found out recently that my local library has an app, I also got the app for the local city using my brother’s postcode - there is overlap of what’s available but also it’s worth having both apps. There are so many books on there that I had wanted to read, but genuinely couldn’t afford to, and lots more I hadn’t heard of that sound so interesting (classics and otherwise) and it has been so wonderful getting free digital book loans.

[@SarahTitus0403]

I will be continuing my no buy into August! I haven’t quite worked through all of this yet-I’ve got a long way to go. Thank you also for the series recommendation! Always here for new Sherlocky mysteries!!! (How have I not heard of this series before???)

[@mollyharms8193]

So I started reading the Beekeepers apprentice and it is really good! I’d love more book recommendations from you!

[@ecceancilla]

Hi Hannah, I’ve started another no buy from July 4th and I have been watching your no buy year playlist to motivate me. I think escapism is a coping mechanism, but definitely fiction and literature would enrich you as a person compared to shopping research or buying stuff!

[@christinaorciari1915]

My goodness Hannah! Look at the # of subscribers you have now! 64.3K! When did that happen? I am so happy for you and your continued growth! (I have been here since your no buy year).

[@m.rachele]

I'm REALLY struggling, but not in the way that I thought I would! I self-identify as a minimalist, which means I don't want a lot of stuff, and this has definitely kept me in check this month. A LOT of unchoreographed change, including a huge change in my day job and the loss of my bff/daughter, Cotoletta, has hit me in the last 5 months but, despite all that, I'm content. Still, not shopping has been hard, and I'm not exactly sure why.

[@isthatjackson]

I am ALL about escapist reading. It heals my soul I tell ya.

[@marygreen4561]

There’s an indigenous word for the trance and “escapism” you speak of: Windigo. Have you read “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer. It’s a book that offers a road map to heal the world, our polarized society-it offers hope, in the most delightful, graceful way. Windigo is the beast that is that bottomless pit of emptiness and need that fuels addiction and all social ill. We can slay the monster- and your channel is part of the solution. Perhaps Braiding Sweetgrass would be a supportive read for you, written by an academic who also loves beautiful things. 😘 ps, interested in what you got from the babaa sale 🤣🙏👍

[@veronicaprice]

I love the Russel/Holmes series. “Oh Jerusalem” is one of my favorite fiction books of all time. Now that you mentioned them I want to reread all of them!

[@feylights166]

Been watching some of your videos since you were a guest on TFD. I am a huge bookworm. Books are a big part of my life, but...I also tend to overspend on them. Not as much as I used to, but I've never really been a library person. The library is great, but just as some people like to own beautiful shoes, I like to own books, so i always buy them, whether that is physical or on my Kindle. I have been actively trying to make my way through the books I own that I haven't read yet, so I haven't splurged in a while, but books (and comics) are my big spending areas. Actually, I *have* splurged a few times on comics lol but I'm pretty frugal in other aspects. Watching your no buy videos, while I don't think i'm going to do a complete no-buy, I may try to be more stringent with my book buying in 2023 (maybe a low buy), the exceptions being new releases to series i own, or new titles by favorite authors, and a few other exceptions. Considering I own almost 1,000 books, with 40-something physical and 60-something on my Kindle that I haven't read yet (these do not include preorders), plus a backlog of comics I need to read, it'll probably keep me going for another year or so. Again, I will still place preorders, but I am *really* going to try not to buy every book that sounds good on BookTube, or that I hear about, at least until I have read through what I already own. Yes, I could utilize the library, but again, I like to fill my space with books, and own what I read.

[@leahteigen4902]

As of august, my goal is to buy no more new clothes in 2022. I've spent 2022 working away from fast fashion, and I've successfully only shopped second-hand for the whole year! Now though, being a more mindful consumer, I can recognize that a lot of the time the reason that I buy things is to make myself feel beautiful, but that wears off quite quickly. I want to work on loving myself as I am, with what I have, so I don't have to rely on consumerism to like myself.

[@lostrawkos]

I'm not sure how I survived no-buy July considering sales and also some awful things happening in my life, but I did it. Not going to lie I'm proud of myself. It was super hard for me which is ridiculous because it was only one month and I have already done a no-buy year. What helped me was HLP and Shawna Ripari's content, journaling and doing a no-buy reflection every week, and doing my version of Shawna's low-buy bingo was extremely helpful. I would love to see a low buy bingo on your channel. It would be so entertaining and motivational.