i guess we're doing a low buy year 2025

[@SustainablyVegan]

NEXT VIDEO: Plan with me for a Low Buy Year 2025: kzbin.info/www/bejne/baqtiJyHadaBmbc

[@jainthorne4136]

In 2019 I did a no spend/low spend year. I set a budget and stuck to it. It was a semi-tight budget but reasonable. I budgeted in $20 a week of guilt free spending. By March I found I often forgot about that because so many things I loved cost no money--reading, bicycling, watching movies online and seeing friends.I let all my friends in on what I was doing and told them I wanted to include them in meeting up for things that didn't cost money. No drinks after work unless we shared a bottle of wine at someone's house. One night we wanted to make a summer punch so we each brought an ingredient to my home and had a glorious night. No dining out for me. A few times I would actually still meet them at a restaurant with the understanding that I would not be ordering anything. I would hang out with them while they waited for a table. Then go with them to the table and talk and laugh until their food came and then I would exit. We had a glorious time of at least an hour catching up at no cost. (They wanted to pay but I told them my choices should not cost them money.) We attended free plays and music in the parks. We went on long walks and to farmers markets. My favorite was we once met up at Powell's Books, a huge bookstore and each had an identical scavenger hunt list of things like dog, monster, kitchen item, storm..etc. We split up and each took pictures on our phones of the items. Then we left the store and had a picnic while we shared each others pictures. It was so much fun and cost nothing. My point was to break the consumer habit. I stopped wandering stores when bored or sad. I stopped ads from hitting my inbox. I never went on Amazon and just took the time to shop local. At the end of the year I'd broken the consumer habit, paid off all my debt for the first time in over a dozen years and had saved enough to put 25% down on a small condo in the heart of the city. That was in 2020 and now with those habits I'm paying off my 30 year mortgage next month which is in 4 years. The kicker? I was 61 years old in 2019. It's never too late and I love my life! Anything is possible. Anything at all.

[@SustainablyVegan]

You're a great storyteller!! Thank you for sharing your experience it's very very motivating !

[@jainthorne4136]

@@SustainablyVegan What a kind thing to say. Wishing you all the best for the coming year.

[@karingarrett7862]

Wow impressive! I'm 70 and planning a low buy year for 2025.

[@chelseam4082]

this is wonderful thanks !

[@annoar9776]

This is so cool!

[@shannahmatecun9996]

Would love a video on more of the differences toward consumption in the states vs back home if you would want to make something about that. ❤️

[@SustainablyVegan]

I’m always up for exploring video ideas like this so thank you for sharing - it's a great idea!

[@greendaybeanfiend]

Came here to comment this!

[@morganproctor7521]

I was just about to comment this!! I would be really interested in a video about it.

[@CandiBookishHobbit]

I really really need to do this

[@anaalves3658]

I would also be interested ☺️.

[@AnasNoBuyYear2025]

It’s so interesting that so many of us are deciding to try a no buy year next year. I think it’s a combo of everything getting so expensive that we need to cut back somewhere to account for this, and also that the push to consume that we are getting from society at large feels so loud lately. Nowhere is safe- everywhere you turn you’re being sold something and it’s so easy to get drawn into the consumerism culture we’re all surrounded in. Wishing everyone lots of luck in their challenges next year!

[@sussannerandall85]

perfectly said

[@ellamcgaunn3128]

I did this in 2024 and was surprised by how much I could cut down and now I’m doing even more in 2025. It definitely helps me realign with my values to take time to re evaluate.

[@lauracraig8110]

I bought very little last year or bought clothes on Vinted. There's just so many things you just... don't need, and so much stuff just becomes clutter.

[@anaalves3658]

I have bought too much on Vinted 😮. I need to go back to writing down what I need to replace and only buy those items.

[@pavlina9231]

Definitely! The older I get the more I realise that buying supplies and then craft with them are two totally different hobbies! 😋

[@briemound]

I totally feel that 😂

[@sarahkinsey5434]

I’ve heard that on book channels, collecting books and supplies is a different hobby than reading and crafting

[@autumnelaines]

I came here to say this.

[@danamissouri]

I finally parted with all the craft supplies I bought. Gave them to my daughter. I'll never do them.

[@JustBecause446]

I recommend Engineering Knits video on harvesting yarn from thrifted sweaters. It’s not only a sustainable practice but you can find really good quality materials for a lower price

[@sarahj2424]

This is such a lovely idea! I find buying wool/yarn incredibly expensive over time and actually stopped me from developing the hobby! Very good plan😊

[@douae5857]

I just bought a few wool and cashmere sweaters from the thrift store for this exact reason! They were like 1$ a piece. It's great especially if you're still learning and will make mistakes like I am.

[@Thrifty_Mom]

I love engineering knits

[@JustBecause446]

@@Thrifty_MomShe’s the best!

[@JustBecause446]

@@douae5857great finds! 50 Grind of cashmere yarn can reach $30 or more 😵‍💫

[@ItsTylerChanel]

A low buy year is such a smart way to be mindful and realign with what matters to you. I was thinking about doing one next year.

[@Nanabanana464]

You are 100% right, one month at a time! I am finishing a low buy year. As a senior on social security ( painfully low) I’d like to say that I wish I knew what I know now about finances when I was young. Learn all you can about savings money, how to have saving “hacks” and alternative options. It’s a journey but worth it. Doing the same again this year. May your year be successful. 😊

[@CarmillaKnits]

I'm doing a low buy too next year! I've been really inspired by Hannah Louise Poston here on KZbin - she is mainly a beauty creator but she talks a lot about mindful consumerism as well. She's a poet too and she has made some amazing, thought provoking content about her no buy and low buy years. Highly recommend!

[@toloveandrestore2472]

I concur

[@kimberlyraejewell166]

You were spectacular in the depth and breath of explaining why you’d like to do this. I tried but did not achieve this last year, but your planning and sharing will really help me look at all the working parts with new eyes. Thank you for doing this with us.

[@quietowl1246]

Doing a no buy year and I’m buzzing about it. Every year I enjoy it more and get more out of it. It’s bringing me closer to achieving my dreams. I don’t miss all the stuff/ waste.

[@christineg6123]

That sounds great! I'd also like a video of your toiletries and beauty products you plan on using up and the rest of your inventory of those items.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Ooooh I will definitely add that to my list!

[@micivalantincic8227]

My favourite chanel for no buy is Consious consumerism. She makes in depth videos about all aspects of things and also talks about books she read about consumerism. Highly recommend

[@sustainfem]

I just recently discovered her! She's amazing.

[@lilibellenada7519]

In case you haven’t seen Grace Nevitt‘s videos on no buy years/low buy years, I really liked her list with red light, orange light and green light purchases. Some things she just needed to wait and think before buying/spending (orange) and she was also focusing heavily on experiences instead of purchases

[@cwalsh4992]

Grace is fantastic ❤

[@kioloup]

I remember when I paid down my student loan. It was accruing 75 cents in interest a day at the time and when I broke it down like that, it seemed kind of unacceptable. I threw all the money I could at it. When I got it paid off, I felt such a sense of relief that the money I earned moving forward was my own. Granted I live in Canada and attended college so it wasn’t even close to that high.

[@SustainablyVegan]

all debt is painful! I'm so impressed, and thank you for sharing your experience it's honestly so helpful and so motivating to hear about other peoples' experiences and feelings of relief when it's done!

[@bmarieluvstheearth3879]

We went thru savings and accumulated debt when our daughter was so ill as well medical debt for my health. I already own a house and have a full-time job plus Social Security. I retired early for 5 years and then had to return to work. I'm not emotionally drained by the indebtedness because there's enough that the bills get paid. I am frugal and mindful of spending and do a low spend as a lifestyle.

[@uslee19]

All you need are two sponsorships, and your student loans are paid. Ask your friend Shelbilee how she bought her house. Take advantage of the platform you’ve created!

[@Ratatouilles]

​@@uslee19 sponsorships are fine, but i stopped following shelbizleee when i realized all the product placement she was doing. For example recommending the aura ring in every video without disclossing that she has a affiliate program with them.

[@me4011]

​@@uslee19 not that simple if your parents make above 75000 it not available

[@reinaitoga8765]

One piece of wisdom about crafting/hobby buying that suck with me is that oftentimes, you're not subconsciously buying the yarn for the yarn's sake but the time and bandwidth to knit it up. You wish you had time to read that book, so you buy the book hoping the time part will sort itself out. I think it's why in periods of high stress, people start spending more on hobbies they don't have time for.

[@tanyajohnston8262]

I need to do a low spend year. I really don’t spend a lot at stores but I do thrift a lot and love it. I also have thrifted a lot of yarn but also have bought a lot of yarn. I have many crochet projects I want to do. At least crocheting is a great way to spend some time, learn new things and make usable gifts for self or others. I do pay for bootcamp which is not cheap but keeps me mobile and healthy. I am almost 63 so that is very important. I also like to make junk journals and I have so much stuff I have mostly thrifted for that so don’t need to spend anymore money. Saving for a home is important so I wish you all good luck towards succeeding with that goal.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Please let me know any questions you have, anything you'd like me to include in the next more structured video and what you'd like to see from my series coming soon!! Immy xx

[@lilred312benett6]

Is there any chance there will be a follow along spreadsheet? I, too, am into the data and pretty graphics.

[@SustainablyVegan]

@@lilred312benett6 I will definitely share something I either find or put together that I think might actually be helpful x

[@sofiasiven8579]

I’d love to see what you will replace shopping/consuming with. There will inevitably be more free time and emotional resources that can be hard to deal with! (This is where I tend to fail!)

[@essiebee8415]

Can you please link the videos that you said you found particularly helpful?

[@TheRawfoodgardener]

This the most thought provoking video, you are such a very special influencer. Love this video

[@AtHomeWithRae]

Great idea. I am in the same boat. My income has more than halved overnight and my whole mindset needs to change (mostly with food, as that's my weak spot in terms of over-spending). Best of luck!

[@haydenfinch7964]

Love the video! I actually just set up my parameters for a low buy 2025 lol, so when I saw you were planning this I got excited to get a bit of a community going.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Ah that’s so awesome!! I love that we’re in this together - are there any videos in particular you'd like me to make?

[@cyriellemaingraud-martinau6380]

As a knitter who's also a minimalist - and planning a low buy for 2025 - I've been trying really hard to limit my yarn consumption for the last two years. To be honest I feel there's a massive overconsumption problem in the knitting world with so many influencers knitting at an unrealistic pace and being proud of insane yarn stashes, yarn brands with scarcity mindset marketing and a continuous cycle of new pattern releases that often add very little compared to other ones already available. So now l allow myself to only buy yarn for one project at a time and only once the previous one is almost complete (I’m a monogamous knitter but if you knit several projects at the same time it’s just about limiting yourself to a certain number). I've noticed this also helps me to avoid changing my mind after I've bought the yarn - sometimes you get very inspired by a pattern but a month later you feel meh about it, or another one you like better is released - and then having yarn in stash I don't know what to do about... I've also realised thrifting (or sales for that matter) are not really working for me - I actually end up buying yarn (works for clothes as well) I wouldn't have bought otherwise and then don't really end up using / wearing. It might be counterintuitive and I’m privileged enough to be able to afford this, but I feel that buying at full price helps me grasp better the value of the piece I'm making. It reflects on my craft as I’m more careful with making sure the garment fits perfectly, that I correct any mistakes - and sometimes I reknit the project completely if I realise I don’t wear it enough. Finally I make sure that I only knit garments that fit my wardrobe in terms of style, colours, my body type etc. I got very picky about patterns and I spend a long time on Ravelry looking at other people’s projects so I’m 100% sure the garment will fit me or I know what to modify so that it does. I’ve learned all of those lessons the hard way and it’s not perfect but I like where I’m at now - I actually love and wear of all my knits, and this is just the best feeling !

[@an_birb]

I definitely agree about the conspicuous consumption in online fiber art spaces. I've been crocheting for 20 years and my accumulated stash is nowhere near the size of what I often see in videos. (Mine is even a little larger than I'd like because I stockpile 2-3 specific yarns for products I sell.) These days I only buy new yarn if I have a specific project in mind. I don't even go near the yarn aisle at the store unless I know exactly what to look for. It's hard to resist, especially when there's a sale, but it saves me a lot of money and space!

[@thomasstuart1825]

I'm doing one. I just left my job, and am looking at stretching funds as far as they can go in this transition to a new career path... however long that is.

[@creationslandscapedesigns]

I did a challenge of low buy for 2024 and did pretty good. I bought nothing off of Amazon and mostly second hand on the things I really needed. I will for sure continue this into 2025 and beyond.

[@kathrynkittaka3930]

I started a similar journey the past couple of years, and it has been so eye opening. One app I use (since I felt overwhelmed creating my own spreadsheet), is the Every Dollar app. I use the free version, but with it I can make a budget and then log in every purchase made. It truly helps my husband and I maintain a budget and save for emergencies and future home. One thing I had to (and still have to) really focus on, was not aiming for perfection. I got to a point that buying things I needed/considered essential started to make me anxious, even if it was budgeted for. It has been a journey to find that happy medium. So interesting to hear your take from someone not born in the US talk about the push the state places on consumerism. It is so tiring seeing products constantly pushed at you. Good luck on your low spend year, and remember to not be too hard on yourself. ❤

[@MsRockstarDC]

I will join you in the low buy year. Looking forward to hearing about your rules - I need to set mine in the next few weeks as well.

[@karistsolomitis3398]

I was already starting to prep for a low buy as I tried to do a no buy this year and it totally fell flat. A Low Buy is so much more realistic for me and excited to be on this journey with you.

[@gracezhang3254]

Hi Immy, thank you for continuing to share and post videos. I've been following you for years and had a tough past two years, but I'm so glad to be back this year. It means so much that you're still here, sharing such valuable content. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your sustainable tips, mindset, perspective, and everything I’ve learned from your videos!

[@mariasarmento3837]

Loved this video and the idea to write down ALL of my spending. Although I’m VERY conscious about spending money I know I can still reduce it further. My dad is a hoarder so I’m getting to be the opposite, I love empty space so I really don’t have/buy decorating items. I’ve started stockpiling some foods where we spend more $ so I can start January in a good path to low spending. With one kid going off to college next year and another in 3 after that, I really need to budget! Looking forward for the next video. Even talking about this issues your voice is always so soothing and calming for me!

[@kristinalundbergh7851]

I find it gives me a better overview, when I add together all the “unavailable” bills(eg. rent, water, electricity, loans, insurance), divide by 12 and then put that amount aside every month. The rest is for the whatever other expenses I have including food, savings, gifts, pocket money etc. Which is each getting their own allotted amount of money… One of the things I have saved up for is an emergency fund if my fridge or washing machine breaks down(a thing I find often happens all at the same time😳). Am doing a very low buy year as well. Looking forward to following your project and hearing your thoughts about the whole process.

[@AislinEvans]

I’ve been casually (ie. not with a year long structure but taking it seriously) doing no-buy-new as a rule lately. Trying to reduce how much I consume in general, but if I do decide I need or want something, I have to buy it secondhand. Makes my conscience and my bank account feel better, and also the extra admin hurdle of having to search online or in charity shops vs immediately buying in a store makes me way more mindful

[@alisonearle5781]

I was inspired by your video. I have so many craft supplies and pending projects it’s ridiculous. And so many unread books. It would be lovely to buy nothing until all the supplies are used up and all the books are read. Rather than feeling restricted that I can’t spend I want to feel expansive and grateful that I am already abundant. Thank you

[@laurawong6065]

Such a great video Immy, thanks for sharing, being so vulnerable and honest. This is exactly what I needed to hear and need to do for myself.

[@honeynwine3619]

Been watching your videos since about 2014, and they're still as useful as ever. I really appreciate your realistic, approachable nature, Immy! It's like a chat with a friend whereas lots of similar videos feel like a presentation/performance. Thanks for that. xx

[@sarahneal3235]

Such a useful video Immy and you’ve inspired me to follow your lead. I think focussing on 1 month at a time is the best approach. I absolutely have more than I need (already retired) and experiences are absolutely what matter most at my stage of life.

[@biblioknitting9695]

I'm also a knitter planning a low buy next year! I suspect we're working with different scales of stash, but part of my reason is that I do want to fall in love again with the massive amount of yarn that I've already got!

[@verenamartini8695]

I did a low buy year in 2024 and I'm doing it again in 2025. Because it's so satisfying and It helps me a lot with my mindfulness !

[@ninaestabrook]

I recommend setting an intention and a few basic budgets (reoccurring monthly living budget, weekly grocery budget, monthly fun budget for each person in the household, and the intention of having more days in the week where no money is spend then ones on which you do go shopping). I would try to make the rules very simple. Ideally, besides saving money, you want to think so much LESS about spending money and less about what you want to buy and less about your participation in mindless consumerism. Breaking uncomfortable habits is tough. Be gentle with yourself. Make your days fun in ways that don't require spending money :)

[@susanc7752]

I love all your videos Immy, but thos one really struck me. We really do tend to lose sight/connection for what we already have. I needed this reminder, thanks girl. Have the most joyous holiday season everyone, may 2025 bring prosperity and wellness to us all!

[@isabbygabbyorcrabby]

I'm very excited for this. I recently got a bit sick of myself and my relationship to consumption and on a whim I started a no buy in mid November - I'm hoping to carry on throughout 2025. ❤ I used to call myself a minimalist but I really don't think that label applies to me anymore 😂

[@jadiiboo]

It’s funny that this is recommended to me, because I decided just last week, that I wanted to stop buying unnecessary stuff in 2025. I realised I didn’t actually need anything. I have a roof over my head, more than enough clothing and entertainment, that I don’t need to but anymore. My main rule for myself during this challenge is that I am allowed to replace broken items and eat out with friends, but no unnecessary clothing, electronics, games, etc etc etc. Just started the video and I can’t wait to hear your opinion on this !

[@mermaidmama5890]

I love when you stated it is a privilege to be able to have a hobby. I also have a problem with spending far too much on my hobbies and then I get overwhelmed with the amount of projects on my to do list. I would love to approach my spending/buying habits with a more appreciative attitude of what I already have, versus what I still want. Thank you for this video and the reminder to be grateful 😊.

[@bethreads3294]

I started this 2 years ago and it's just developes a sense of peace and simplicity. Good for you!

[@mnktfn]

I read a really good tip regarding personal finance that I have used ever since. When writing down what you spend and putting it into categories, differentiate between necessary expense categories that you cannot cut down and the rest. So you can have necessary-housing, necessary-insurance, necessary-healthcare, necessary-groceries, etc. And optional-hobbies, optional-books&movies, optional-eating out, etc. This does not mean you won’t spend on optional expenses, but it’s a good way to see your actual baseline. If in doubt regarding if the category should be optional or not, consider if you‘d spend your savings on it if you lost your job. Hope this helps. I‘m looking forward on your next video on this subject. Happy holidays!

[@greendaybeanfiend]

I’d love to see a learning component of this - you’ve done some awesome book summaries and topic spotlights over the years and it’d be awesome for you to include that style of video, specific to low buy/consumption as part of the series.

[@jenzhou1096]

This is the first video I've seen from you, but here's a huge "thank you!" to the algorithm. I think this video came at a perfect time :)

[@212lifestyle]

I find so much of what you've shared so relatable, and actually helped shed some of the fear I was holding about taking back control of my finances after a traumatic year. Wishing you and your family a peaceful and restful holdiay season. Always love your content. ❤

[@MarionDcqn]

Really liked that it wasn't a structured video straight away and that you took us through your thought process first, it makes it so much more realistic and authentic :) thank you! Looking forward to following you along this journey and getting inspired to doing the same!

[@thatpinkcosygirl]

also practicing a low buy year! telling myself 95% of the things I buy this year should serve a purpose /function for me, should replace anything that’s damaged, broken or needed ( like clothes I’ve worn through), and the other 5% can be on stuff that’s really special. want to save as much money as possible to fund a new car in a few years and to just have some savings going. good luck with yours ❤

[@marycharlebois6627]

Hey Immy, I’m back… Whoo-Hoo!! I’ve just finished my recent uni course and am stoked to catch up on all your content that I have missed during the past 3 months. I am pumped for this Low Buy adventure in 2025. I agree with your comment on the whole “Under Consumption Core” thing which I found to be, quite simply, normal living and normal spending. Hobbies and gifts are my big areas of spending, but I have already decided that all gifts in 2025 will be home-baking. Who doesn’t love fresh baked treats, bread, or bagels for a gift? Anyways, I’m starting to ramble so I will finish up by saying that I am here for all of this. Bring it on. I know we will all share and learn together on this low buy journey. TYSM, Ⓜary💕👩🏻‍🎓

[@AlexaLikes]

You'll never look back. I had around 18K in debt when I started low-buy. Owing taxes, a credit card and my student loan. I paid it off after working for a year. A monthly spreadsheet encourages accountability. Watching savings grow is stress relieving. Allison Anderson here on youtube, who shots these insanely cinamatic solo travel videos, has done a series of personal finance and minimalism videos. Highly recommend! One of the most helpful things she said (from her bad habits video) was that it's a mistake to not make personal finances your hobby.

[@sgrun100]

Really appreciate your content. Well done. I’m in a low buy year as well. Working on my habit stacking skills too. … so a very relevant video for me.

[@clairespence4796]

Great Idea. I look forward to hearing about the journey next year. One thing I just wanted to say is that for Uk student loans they do get written off once you reach a certain age so it may be good to calculate with your salary. Because u may realize you will actually save money as u don’t need to fully pay it off. I hope that is helpful.

[@larissaguy9083]

Perfect timing! I loved how you articulated your reasons, they really resonated with me. I’m going to enjoy following this part of your journey in 2025.

[@Tracywhited2]

These type videos really help. Much appreciated.

[@SustainablyVegan]

Thank you so much! I'm glad it's helpful!

[@kateday5688]

Great video! I think it makes sense to still go through all the clothes and the different sizes but only keep what you really enjoy and could use. The rest can be sold or donated. Another influencer mentioned cataloging what you have as well. I'm doing a no spend month now but I'm considering stretching it out to March or alternating low vs no buy all year.

[@Ditto787]

Good luck! I'm absolutely a budget nerd (and am also facing down another year of high savings low buying) so I'll be looking forward to your next vidéo. Good luck with your planning!

[@jaceycorrente3739]

I'll be trying alongside!🤞I tried a low buy year last year but I lost my diligence mid year. I really like the idea to look at each month individually to feel more in control

[@Joy-zp5lv]

Just found your channel/this video. Thank you for it! Last week I already have started a list of things I won´t buy 2025. Things I have stashs of (candles, cute paper napkins ...) I do the same thing for all the yearly bills (all incurances for example): I divide them by 12 and safe the amount monthly so I can pay them when it´s time to do so. It made my life so much easier. Doing it for many years! I´m excited to follow your journey! Hugs from Germany!

[@retsa]

i was watching retroclaude’s videos earlier this year about using a wartime-style ration book to moderate spending on yarn & other craft supplies and i found it such a good idea! i feel like i just buy yarn knowing i’ll use it eventually but then just keep buying it on the same principal-not wasting money per say, but certainly not spending it as wisely as i could

[@tamarasmith8621]

I'm doing a low buy year! I want to save more money for retirement and, for me, I don't like over-consumption and its impact on the environment (and the culture of the US).

[@ikonora]

OMG, same! I'm from Brazil but I've been living in the USA since 2016 and I always say the same thing. We always want more more more more, nothing is enough. The ambition makes is just want the next shiny thing and this is so different from the Brazilian culture..

[@caitlinglover2636]

I’ve had no or low buy periods, but never an intentional full year. I’m about to have less income shortly so this video came at an opportune time for me. I’ll be along a similar journey with you as I reevaluate my life, income, and expenses for myself and my family. Happy to join you Immy! Good luck 😊

[@TogetherWeBudget]

Looking forward to watching your journey from Qld Australia

[@CarissaBeltran-b9f]

I appreciated this wholehearted realization, and it clarifies how 2025 is a year of re-establishment for many. Thank you for being honest about how you might have lost sight at one point and showing how you plan to take that chargeback for the better. That was quite eye-opening. God bless you, Immy

[@tanuki116]

Immy, your videos are always so on point with where I find myself in life! After a high spend 2024 for a number of good and less good reasons, I really want to commit to a low buy 2025. Thank you for your energy and motivation, wishing you the very best for the coming year ❤️💪🏻

[@Chloe_R]

This is what I want to do as well! I noticed that I've been spending a lot on stuff when I'd rather save or spend it on experiences. So next year I'm giving myself a monthly budget to try to be more mindful. I'm tired of wondering where my money went

[@barbarapietrzyk9465]

I’ve seen a lot of low buy content on yt with lot of intresting frames :D but only this one really inspired me ❤ thank U!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Oh I appreciate this thank you x

[@sarahj2424]

Hi! I've just found your channel and I'm so happy to have when you're doing this! Have you watched the Adam Curtis documentary series century of the self? It's so relevant to this video 😊It gives a *genuinely* mind blowing history of the invented phenomenon of consumerism/consumption and how it didn't really exist until the start of the 1900s, it's been engineered by a couple of people in America based and originally entirely on Freudian psychoanalysis. It's a British film maker so very understated and non sensationalised. He talks about the US more at the start, and then addresses UK later as our country didn't really embrace it until the 70s. It uses lots of cool archival footage. It completely reframed my own changes in consumption (as despite avoiding tiktok I seem to be buying more stuff anyway). I don't like knowing that consumption is not really helpful and not even really self directed. Personally, I find vinted has been mixed because I couldn't afford any ethical or sustainable brands and never bought new clothes, now I can buy new-to-me clothes and it's very hard to limit that on vinted where there's always something new and something insanely cheap. Looking forward to this series, please watch the century of the self if you can, I think it'll give you additional wisdom and willpower! Good luck! X

[@berry7590]

Inspired indeed! I’m so glad education is free in Finland yet I think your points on consumption are so good and will definitely do a low buy year too

[@meganm2382]

Oh my goodness, I rarely see influencers living in Denver! Super excited I found you and am able to have an internet buddy to have a conscious buy year with! Thank you for sharing this; looking forward to have a year where I also change my perception on spending !

[@arielalperstein7202]

I did a low buy year in 2023 with the goal of taking my family to Iceland (it was an awesome trip). Looking forward to seeing your videos about the low buy year.

[@theonewithmo]

Love seeing this video pop-up as I just had to have a serious talk with myself about how much I spend and plan to do a low buy next year. I’m going not buy any books (digital and physical) and only read books I own. If I really want to read a specific book, I’ll get it from my library. I’m a crafter too and also learning to sew but I’m going to use up the yarn I have and then only buy yarn for one project to crochet/knit at a time. And I’ll focus on learning to tailor the clothes I have before buying fabric to make new clothes! Leena norms just did a year of make-do (instead of buying clothes, she had to make it if she wanted it) that I thought was so cool. I’m not advanced enough at sewing but hopefully for 2026 I can make that a goal and see if I really want something or if I’m just pulled in by a trend.

[@exohJackayyy]

excited to follow this journey! I only found out what a no buy year is in 2024, I followed someone who did it and would post monthly updates. It was really inspiring!

[@alleswunderbarblala]

Besides the point of the video but I think salt and pepper hair will look SO good on you. Look forward to the whites!

[@SustainablyVegan]

omg thank you, they really are coming in thick and fast

[@theginghamgirl6970]

This was excellent. I’m doing a no buy year. I’m also a knitter so knitting from stash! Good luck 🤗

[@vickyjansen3544]

I have a big pantry and stuff in the freezer. I've been keeping track of what I have. I have a freezer and pantry note book. I need to have a low buy month to month for the year. Thanks for sharing....

[@lilred312benett6]

I already sent this to my sister and told her we are doing this!

[@SustainablyVegan]

ah yay! we're in this together xx

[@dinabertrand9113]

I am in the "planning to plan" stage of next year's finances, so I'm very much looking forward to your videos on the subject. Thanks 😊

[@flyxk3]

Good for you. Love your channel, your honesty, and vulnerability. Thanks for inspiring us to circle back to our values.

[@alianathefoxfairy]

I definitely want to save more money this upcoming year and I think a low buy year is just what I needed so thanks Immy!

[@simini1837]

Hello Immy even though I unsubscribed from your channel I stumbled upon this video and loved it anyway:). I did a low buy year in 2024 and almost only spent money on rent, utilities, groceries, gym membership, the occasional holiday (in my country or very close to it), experiences and gifts for loved ones. I must say it was quite a challenge sometimes but i like my bank account at the end of the year. The goal was to save up for buying a house and frankly i already have everything i need. It also made me quite resourcefull. The most difficult for me was not spending so much on holiday trips. I would love to make a trip abroad in 2025.

[@pimkas]

I love your channel! Your so honest in your attempts. I struggle with my hobbies the same way you do. So I decided to do a year of finishing my projects and not buying new supplies for new project. I am going to have a monthly budget for finishing my started projects but the idea is to shop from my hobby shelfs using up what I already have.

[@marissaj9798]

I think I'm going to do a low-buy year, too. I think I've gotten a bit out of whack with my values, too. It'll be nice to follow along with someone else doing it. Good luck!

[@vvanessammarquez]

I’d love to see a video where you explain the differences between the us and the uk in terms of consumerism!! What is the culture, larger sizes, social pressures? Was it gradual or instant? I’m so curious as someone that’s only lived here in the us of a 🦅

[@Anna-4001]

One thing that I find so irritating is how influenced we are by the US consumer culture. One example is that Black Friday came 100% from America - we had never heard of it until the Internet! Then it gradually dawned on British companies that they could increase profits hugely by getting the British involved in this ridiculous event. We don't do Thanksgiving in the UK so Black Friday really is meaningless.

[@Anna-4001]

In the UK we are definitely much less pressured to buy than you are in the US. Also, being broke and telling everybody is seen as a normal part of our culture - as is secondhand buying. We don't need to keep up with anybody else either. BUT, we have had Black Friday imposed on us when it is really meaningless here as we don't do Thanksgiving. That annoys me hugely. British companies just saw an opportunity. So we are being pressured by US levels of consumption.

[@Azza.j]

You can gift all your f&f knitted staff so, 1 you have a deadline for your projects 2 you have one spend for hobbies and gifts :)

[@amy1062]

Yes I’m gonna follow along so pls update us and show us maybe days of low buy activities etc ❤

[@sbmenard7374]

This is just what I needed. I hadn't thought about doing this, but now I'm inspired to take it on for 2025. I am looking forward to hearing more about your process. Thanks for your candor about your student loans. I paid mine off, but had that hanging over my head a long time. I also like the approach of taking it one month at a time so as not to get overwhelmed.

[@JessRose96]

I'd love to see a beginners guide to low buy year, like where to begin, what can I buy or not. I want to start a low buy year but need to know the basics, if that's possible. THANK YOU IMMY!! (also with groceries can you buy special or more expensive ingredients or only basics? As someone who enjoys food & cooking I'd love to know your approach to this)

[@AnasNoBuyYear2025]

I have seen sooooo many no buy and low buy year videos over the years. There is a huge spectrum, with some people deciding to eliminate every single non essential purchase, including non essential groceries and experiences, and some people who only pick a few “problem areas” of their spending where they don’t want to spend any money or they set a very low budget for those categories. I used to want to do an extreme no buy year to maximize savings- but I decided I value nice groceries and fun experiences with my family too much and I don’t actually want to cut those or lots of other areas of spending. Next year my no buy categories are clothing, accessories like bags/jewelry/scarves etc, skincare, books, and “house stuff” like random gadgets and tools and decor and non essential kitchen stuff. All of those are the things I find myself mindlessly buying and I want to change that.

[@JessRose96]

@ amazing thank you so much for this reply. This is so helpful! Yes I agree I don’t want to cut out experiences or things I enjoy. But want to cut other things like you said. Thanks again this was so helpful

[@aunelill]

I did budgeting and low buy experiments. Then I decided that it's easier for me if I just put aside emergecy fund and saving/inveatment money first, then pay all the unavoidable costs and then the rest is free to be spent every month. I get my income once a month, so it makes sense to go month by month with spending plan too.

[@JonesLeFae]

I definitely need to do this. I have been spending way too much money - often justifying them as "investments" in my business, but so far, I have made very little of my money back. I am especially bad about buying jewelry supplies, but unlike knitting (and especially when you are trying to sell what you make), you often need to have lots of supplies in order to create all the things you want to make (especially trying to stock up for a show). I am constantly running out of basic supplies, but because all my pieces are unique, and I work by inspiration, not a set pattern or design, I need to have various supplies on hand for inspiration.

[@egleeim]

I did low buy october this year. Wanted to know how much money I can save if I try to. Really liked the result and mind shift that is left after the experiment: I am more mindful, buying much less unnecessary things, cooking at home more and replacing my "urgent wants" in to a walk in nature. Because most of the time that urgent need of a thing or sweets is just an ilussion that it will fix my life - the walk in the other hand really fix mental and physical health and save my money 😂

[@tirill452]

I need to do a low buy, both to save money and to just work through some of the mountain of stuff I own. Just have to sit down and have a talk with myself and decide that Im going to do it and what the rules and goals are 😤

[@whatnow8362]

I’m planning a low buy year next year too. The more I make the more I’m spending without thinking. It doesn’t feel good so I’m going to set my next income goal and also savings goal.

[@nouramouctar817]

I’ve also been thinking of doing a low buy year so it would be really helpful to get video check ins or something. If a lot of people in this community want to do something like this and keep each other accountable you could make a it a membership or something.

[@lorenag5168]

Totally agreed that our perception of consumption has changed. I don’t think I am a big spender but I find myself buying small things that they are not necessary. I think my next year is going to be the one that I will be questioning my purchases. We need to become a conscious consumer.

[@tayrenlabrecque252]

I am also setting up a low spend year for 2025 and I’m doing it month to month to make everything more manageable but also because there are certain months where I have different things going on. I am interested to hear about how you do it with your hobbies. I have crafty hobbies but I also have expensive outdoor hobbies.

[@scminor99]

I'm doing a low buy year as well! I'm trying to build up my savings account just so I feel more financially stable. I would love to hear more on your planning process and what your Low Buy Year will all entail!

[@ericabriscoe]

I’ve never done a low buy year/month I am very interested in this as I feel I could benefit greatly from it! I will watch out for your next video on this ! You have given me lots to think about ❤x

[@msntricia4936]

Thanks for sharing! Love the idea and am inspired to join you!

[@SustainablyVegan]

Yay!! Let's do this!