internet consumerism has gone too far

[@ThaoNguyen-sw8li]

The “you NEED these essentials” from influencers on things that are so unnecessary and overpriced is really annoying. Thank you for speaking on this issue!

[@arimiles6077]

LITERALLY. It’s to the point where I can’t even enjoy my favorite creators bc at what point is it just too much 😭 like are these people concerned with overconsumption? It’s concerning. And I don’t even wanna have an energy exchange with these people that can’t stop buying random junk. It’s really weird. Considering just throwing the whole social media shit away entirely

[@lovism6590]

I would say it’s most like this for things like “newborn essentials”. Like you can’t survive without 25 gadgets for hundreds of dollars each. As a mom to be you have no clue and the internet tells you you NEED all this crap

[@chrissyfrijters6581]

I have watched so many and im always like... this was useless, why would i need these things😢

[@ShubhraPandey]

Yes this thing is ruining our environment

[@vvitch-mist20]

And the "essentials" aren't actually priced accordingly. I don't actually need a $15 face cream.

[@masakimoayra00]

I love my phrase "If I don't have it, I don't need it" because realistically the only thing I need weekly/monthly is groceries

[@jq27272]

"cook unity" delivers

[@marijanina]

omg this is brilliant

[@jamieson4293]

I also like 'I don't have it, what would I do instead' and if you can always come up with a solution, proving you don't need it

[@coffeebreak100]

I’m going to adopt this in my everyday lingo 😂, this is exactly how I feel. Thanks for sharing.

[@klaytonalexandermatthews2047]

​@@jamieson4293this is actually how I got into repairing/tailoring my clothing items. It was cheaper to buy some thread and needles and spend an hour tryna repair something, rather than buying a whole new thing

[@eliontheinternet3298]

I would LOVE to see a video on Temu! I find it so bizarre that we seemed to move away from Shein and then IMMEDIATELY towards Temu. Are they not the exact same thing? I feel like we went through this cycle of Wish -> Wish products suck -> Shein -> Shein is morally horrible -> Temu ???

[@RutaBauzaite]

I think thats because Temu literally has emailed everyone in the usa and paid them to make videos

[@mistress.villaina7591]

their ads are so tacky 🤢🤮

[@theuseriwantedwastaken]

My thoughts exactly... like didn't we just learn from this wtf

[@Kittyheavenwith21cats]

I got all my cats supplies at temu..I love them

[@raapyna8544]

​@@Kittyheavenwith21catsBut aren't you concerned, because they're so cheap? Surely the people making them can't be paid?

[@SwiftlyCyan]

I ferverently believe we need to return to the days of calling people sellouts if they try to shovel shitty products to their audience

[@Sobermama927]

Agreed

[@xoMrsWentzxo]

I dont think it works anymore. People are so greedy and money hungry these days they do anything

[@svogel6459]

Seriously, makes me wanna strangle people when an influencer is promoting some scam and the comment are all like "Get that bag 😍"

[@shygirl2]

couldn't agree more!

[@HappyCrackers]

Yes lets start doing it

[@niamhl6964]

Whenever I'm tempted to purchase non-essentials (especially online) I think of my French grandmother. She is probably the most eco-friendly, sustainable person I know, and not even for environmental reasons! I don't think she's bought anything new in YEARS. She reuses things that are often seen as disposable, such as plastic cartons, she grows most of her own vegetables, she barely heats her house even in winter time (she insists on wearing five layers indoors lol). And she doesn't even see herself as a 'sustainability queen', she literally is just doing what actually makes sense for her to do. She walks or bikes to most places, even though she lives in the middle of nowhere. She only uses the internet to contact family and pay bills and stuff, so she doesn't get ads for anything she would be interested in. I ask myself 'would my grandmother buy this?' and the answer is usually no, so I know I most likely do not need it.

[@shirleycarvajal193]

Wow she sounds like an amazing human being!

[@niamhl6964]

@@shirleycarvajal193 she is! I'm lucky to have her as a granny

[@berg_ahorn]

we all should be a little more like your French grandma

[@fenty2945]

@@berg_ahornHer lifestyle isn’t going to work for most

[@berg_ahorn]

@@fenty2945 that's why i said a little

[@AyaaAcademia]

People need to understand that they don't need to own something to appreciate its beauty/value. Your sweater with the carrots are gorgeous and I can freely appreciate how cute it is without the need to buy and own it. I do not need it and I don't see myself wearing it as often. Many people online didn't go through this throught process and just went to "i like it so i need to have it now"

[@bugsandbrushes]

I'm usually quite good with not consuming things o don't need, but today, I needed a bit of help. Your comment reminded me to simply appreciate without feeling greedy - thank you 😊

[@tangyjoe4326]

Going through that thought process is why I (thankfully) didn’t buy a 2.5 foot Bigfoot doll I saw on vacation and in the moment thought I just had to have. If I hadn’t paused and told myself NO, I would have definitely already regretted it by the time I had to drag it on the airplane! 🙄

[@raeraemillstone]

Thissss

[@MsaRt-ph4tx]

My friend has a saying…”I have one, too. I keep it at the store”.

[@tangyjoe4326]

@@MsaRt-ph4tx That’s awesome!

[@elihinze3161]

I noticed a year or two ago that, the more time I spent on TikTok and Instagram, the less satisfied I was with myself, my life, and my possessions. I've since stopped using TikTok entirely and have cut 80% of my Insta use, and my mental health and wallet are so, SO much happier. Everything is an ad nowadays, from KZbin videos to news articles and more. I'm sick of it and it's led to me cutting down on my internet usage a TON.

[@Azarko212]

Same, tiktok was making me miserable and wasting my time (tik tok tick tock went the clock of my life), I deleted it about two years ago and I try to encourage other people to do the same

[@LeslieStinson]

I just heard the term "chronically online" and I feel it deeply. Good for you for kicking the habit. It's very hard.

[@lhppresents]

I did 2 weeks without IG and recently decided to delete it all together. Biggest time waster EVER?! And I don’t give a fuck about what anyone else is doing. I feel better already.

[@user-db5qy3yo6e]

Same! I deleted the Instagram app 2 weeks ago, and let me tell you...I feel so much happier without it! I have more joy in my everyday tasks

[@cartwheelheart]

I completely agree! I don't use either platform anymore and I am amazed at how much useless spending I've been able to cut out. Being without those platforms has made me realize how happy I am with the things I have and that I don't need to have more, more, more to feel good about myself.

[@falakrafi]

Instead of adopting a minimalist approach, I love calling myself an intentionalist, mindfully adopting a lifestyle where I can confidently say "I have what I need/love, and I need/love what I have" is refreshing, more than just from a consumerist perspective but because it's fulfilling to be surrounded by things that make you feel good about what you own, 💕🥰 Edit: Great video! I love when creators cover topics that are so rampant and such evident "cash-grabs" hope you're having a great day

[@MusikGirl23]

Love that!

[@cicooooooo]

Thats what I do too! I only buy what I truly want and usually sleep a night before I buy it. Always questioning if this is something I would still like to have in 5, 10, 20 years. It doesnt need to be basic, sometimes silly things bring me so much joy, like my mug collection. Also helps that I hate online shopping.

[@falakrafi]

@@cicooooooo That is so precious! And I totally hear you! I don't have a credit card, and don't use my debit so that kinda crosses off online shopping for me and I can't say I feel too strongly about the loss, (a mug collection is too cute! I have 3 cat themed mugs I am in love with and use interchangeably!)

[@girlathebeach]

This is a concept that I follow as well.

[@MelanatedHomesteadher]

Yes

[@softie.girlie]

Anytime I hear "linked in my Amazon storefront!" I instantly lose trust in that influencer and question their motives and values.

[@sweetie_babie]

Why?

[@kmxrie]

@@sweetie_babiebecause they’re affiliated/affiliate links. they get a small commission from anything linked in their storefront. i’m not mad at people for hustling and getting that bag, but at least be honest and disclose it (it’s the law).

[@lockergremlin]

I thought the whole point of influencers is to sell you stuff 😅

[@IsabellaS967]

​@@lockergremlinliterally 😂

[@zirconium2014]

It's a commission link, my lord

[@rm_bruna]

One thing I started to do last year is keep the items “I want” on the wishlists for moooonths (Except if I need it urgently obviously). I’m not zero/low waste, I still buy things with plastic but I’m not buying things I don’t need and honestly feels great, no more clutter, no more “single use” products

[@sourdoughsavant22]

Yes, I do this too. In college I wanted a Folio (that digital paper tablet) and after some discussion with my partner, researched prices for refurbished ones, and added it to my list. After a few months I honestly forgot about it and realized I didn't need it and probably wouldn't use it. Now I'm mulling over a kitchen aid, but we'll see

[@xenonsan3110]

​​@@sourdoughsavant22honestly kitchen aid might be worth it if you love baking. Not sure about the attachments though. I have the same situation going on with a sewing machine because I want to make my own button ups and not spend $60 for some of the nice ones Edit: I'm saying this because my partner and I have a kitchen aid and she loves to bake. She uses it at least once a month. It's a hand me down and is probably like 10-20 years old

[@sofroc5496]

My wishlists go back a decade already 😂😂

[@marymurphy1877]

@@sourdoughsavant22 I got a kitchen aid in April and use it like... at least once every two weeks. at least. it's totally worth it IF you already like baking and are already into making things from scratch. before the kitchen aid I used a hand mixer that was a hand-me-down from my inlaws for at least a year. I also cook a lot- so if you are in the camp of loving to cook or bake it's absolutely great, and saves my wrists from soooo much suffering.

[@efremiavlachou1380]

People think that I'm cheap when I tell them that I don't buy stuff that I don't need, and it's sad that most people think that it is normal to buy unnecessary stuff almost every day. Thank you for pointing these things out. Love your video ❤

[@NoName-zh9ov]

YES! OMG my inlaws are SO extreme, I live with them for half the year and I have NEVER had a day there where not at least one package arrives for one of them, be it mother, father or sister. it's the worst and then we (my partner and I) are called cheap fucks because we save the money. It's like buying stuff daily has become the new normal and it creeps me out.

[@Siures]

@@NoName-zh9ovWait until you (if it’s in your plans) have children. I had so much criticism for NOT buying stuff for my kids. Like we only had carriers for the first year, no stroller. We did not have any special baby furniture or a swing. They only get toys on Christmas and birthdays. But as my parents-in-law saw how content the kids (3.5 and 5 yo) are and how little they care for new stuff (although they love what they have) they started to understand. Now they gift visits in indoor playgrounds, museums…

[@bluumberry]

Embrace the stingyness!

[@cutosaurus]

I sometimes get looks when I say that I try to buy most of my clothes in second hand stores. Like, no I'm not poor or cheap. I just don't want to buy a H&M t-shirt that will disintegrate the moment I take it out of the shopping bag.

[@PinkDiamond7777777]

They're rich. Wish I could relate.

[@TheGrownUpMillennial]

Was talking to a friend and my partner about this - I find shopping so exhausting, I don't understand how people can do it as much as they do. I know online shopping puts it in your hand, but that feels even more overwhelming to me. I need to see if the website is a scam, if the reviews say the product is shit, find the measurements and see if they're even correct, balk when the shipping costs and taxes are added, figure out the return policy if the product doesn't work for what I intended. The stress of getting a product that I don't need or doesn't work for what I wanted far outweighs the dopamine high

[@reborka]

That’s bc you’re a responsible consumer! I would rather pluck my eyes out then shop online

[@agood1]

exactly!!

[@Maggie-zb7gx]

THIS

[@Jane_Moss]

Agreed!

[@Xilaneda]

I get so frustrated that is MORE difficult to take care of the things you have than to buy a new one. Even something as simple as sharpening a knife involves wading through a wave of cheap, junk products to find what you ACTUALLY need. And you have to create a carbon footprint to get it because it’s an online order.

[@nbcommiedyke]

exactly. it's literally harder to find something decent that you need to buy new. when most of the economy is hyper insane capitalism, individual solutions can only take us so far, especially when most people's choices are constrained by dozens of different factors.

[@arbitraryimagines]

A product has a carbon footprint no matter where you get it from, whether that's online or in a store.

[@Reutviv]

Idk what it’s like where you live, but where I live you can take your knives to the cobbler and get them sharpened there. Plus it’s cheap, I paid 3€ last time I sharpened my knife!

[@PinkDiamond7777777]

Yes, the tech industry is worse for this !

[@krischezockt1916]

Yes! My toaster stopped working a few weeks ago and I’ve haven’t found a way to actually get it fixed, or at least have someone try to fix it! I don’t want to buy a new toaster, I want a fixed one 😢

[@JehanineMelmoth]

I’m just coming to terms with being a hoarder. It’s absolutely horrible, and videos are such a big help when I’m fighting the urge to buy and keep things I don’t need. When Temu launched, I had a short time of bliss buying beautiful things at very low prices. But I should have known that someone was paying the price somewhere, and the planet is too. Please do a video on Temu! I’m starting to make progress on not shopping. I’m starting to make progress on decluttering. It’s painful and difficult, even after watching the videos about how products are made and what happens to them. I’m so angry that I’m constantly manipulated by companies. Thank you for helping to be the antidote, Shelbi.

[@mistress.villaina7591]

I wish you all the best .. I'm also decluttering things I struggled to get rid of for years. It's a long process but it's teaching me a lot. I started asking people what kind of gift they'd like from me so that I'm not giving them things that they need to get rid of because it wasn't something that would be useful or of interest to them. I love things but I want to be more conscious both in what I get myself and other people

[@JehanineMelmoth]

@@mistress.villaina7591 yes, exactly! That’s how I want to be too. Xxx

[@reborka]

I know I’m a stranger, but I’m so proud of you! Consumerism is drugs! They make you into an addict. Congrats on your sobriety!❤️

[@JehanineMelmoth]

@@reborka thank you so much! Xxx

[@hazeldavis3176]

Hey, I'm a recovered hoarder (I still have trouble some days but have a system in place now that keeps me pretty stable). There's a book called Goodbye Things that helped me a lot. It's about extreme minimalism but I used it more like a thought experiment. Also I learned about executive function and how easily mine gets off track. There's a cool talk on yt called Buried Treasures that helped me too. I hope it's not too pushy for me to mention these things! I just get so excited to offer what worked for me. But I was pretty extreme😅

[@baileegordon2825]

I've never been a hyper consumer, but I've noticed myself feeling really impulsive lately (thanks, ADHD). Instead of going to stores, I've been going to my locally owned, bee friendly nursery. I've invested in dozens of native plants for my space. They bring me joy and keep my attention longer than a thing would, plus they're great for the ecosystem. I've noticed way more bugs, butterflies and birds since doing this!

[@lionfellinlovewlamb]

That’s so awesome! That’s my goal for my yard next summer! ❤

[@alexannaliceteddy]

Love this!!

[@ariverdreaming]

Fuck yeah!! 🐝

[@myasstorey]

This is so cool!

[@MishiBelley]

I have a love hate relationship with haul videos. On the one hand, yes, why are we glorifying the consumerism and constantly being sold to. On the other hand, seeing somebody else buying and unboxing things kind of satisfies the itch of wanting something new and shiny for a dopamine hit. I think in a lot of cases it actually PREVENTS me from buying crap I don't need. Also that endless consume/donate cycle is WILD in the baby/toddler sphere- I just thrifted more than an entire day's worth of clothes (PJs, shirts, pants, sweatshirt) for $20 ALL WITH TAGS ON IT. Comes in really clutch but it's also kind of sad

[@Siures]

Oh yes. And if you don’t consume constantly you’re a bad mom. Like: You don’t have a baby swing?!? How do you live like that! Your 5yo likes Cars and he only has ONE thrifted Lightning shirt? I am a bit afraid though how it will effect my kids. Now they are quite happy with their amount of clothes and toys but in preschool a boy already told my son that his T-Shirts would look like poo. I explained him that some kids need to pick on others to feel better or that other people are probably mean to them. My son, fortunately, just said: I like my shirts. If this boy doesn’t like them - it’s HIS problem. I was proud, but how will it be in school?

[@avacx]

also when i see people buy huge amounts of stuff it conjures up a mix of anxiety/disgust in me that i don't have to be responsible for all that crap

[@lindsey224]

My mother is obsessed with Temu, and I have tried to tell her to stop, but she refuses since the prices are so low. If you made a video on this topic, maybe she will understand why Temu is so awful. I enjoy learning sustainability from you!

[@natalizn1]

Try another route: Temu was selling personal info of buyers (probably still is) Their sister brand was for awhile banned from apple store for that. And as some who bought some stuff in the past on a similar site you can't even imagine the amount of scam artist that I got after me. And it was YEARS AGO

[@anastyzias]

Also tell her about the slave labor they use! And the fact that people using TEMU have had their card information stolen & used through TEMU

[@xjushja5767]

@@natalizn1do you remember the name of the sister brand ?

[@KaylaKasel]

@@xjushja5767 My guess is they're referring to Shein

[@catastrophicdefectpresenta7262]

Make fun of her for looking cheap and tacky it is legitimately the only thing that works on older women they don't give a fuck about ethics lol

[@ftv3327]

watching influencers unbox tons of pr is so frustrating bc they keep it and then end up throwing it out because they have wayyy too much. Not to mention those products could be donated to shelters!

[@brekaterina]

I did a no-buy challenge the first half of this year to save money for lasik and to decrease my consumption. it helped my wallet for sure, but also my mental health and relationship with shopping healed so much! so i like how you touched on the aspect of how ads and hyper consumerism can negatively impact mental health and overall culture in the world. these are important things that everyone needs to know!!

[@claradurling5221]

I’d love to hear more about the details of your approach to this challenge! What exact restrictions did you follow?

[@hailyjohnson407]

I second this! I wanna hear more about the restrictions and how you went about it because I want to reduce my consumption!

[@heathernikki5734]

DO NOT GET LASIK!!! Look at the risks and the reporter who had LASIK and ended herself bc of the side effects

[@blakea.e.1681]

Please don’t get it, it’s not worth the risk. Too many people have committed suicide from the extreme dry eye that can result

[@brekaterina]

y’all need to chill out 😅 i got it and i’m very happy. i had terrible vision and i hated wearing glasses. they give you eye drops for the dry eye and i just wear sunglasses. there are wayyy worse things people could be doing to themselves

[@eliontheinternet3298]

I think it would also be cool to see a video on these “small businesses”. I think there’s a stark difference between someone printing stickers or drop-shipping goods, and someone knitting sweaters made from their sheep’s wool.

[@eliontheinternet3298]

Actually I would just like more informative videos in general 😂 I like it when you talk about the “why” or “how” behind things and I often feel like there’s an element of “you don’t know what you don’t know” at least for me in environmentalism.

[@Klara_is_finding_herself]

Thank you for talking about this topic, it's very important to talk about it 💚 5:43 Why does almost nobody talk about this? Thanks for mentioning the mental health issues.

[@nelliesmith5699]

One week I bought nothing but groceries and I remember walking out of the store thinking that something was wrong. Nothing was wrong I’m just used to buying unnecessary things every week🤦🏾‍♀️

[@panicsounds2239]

So sick of Temu ads, it's all useless sh*t! I hate how all of this stuff will end up in landfill in a few months. I think you should do a video about where they're sourcing these cheap cheap items from. You know it's sweat shop labor at the best... possibly prison/slave labor at worst.

[@kam.kam.]

I love this. I was on the internet itching for pointless things to buy and I don’t even have the bank account to support that. Finding healthy ways to fill the void takes intention and sacrifice. I appreciate your message.

[@melindasmith3713]

Well we used have window shopping .

[@kyxster1864]

Your previous goal helped me understand why I was so depressed in the past. When I was a kid they had the carbon print workshop at my school & I calculated what my family produced. At first they started to bend and comply with the systems of organized but eventually they went back to their hyper-consumerism. But I digress, I’m doing what I can & that’s what matters. For example, my hubby and I are first time parents now and one of the things we’ve decided is that we don’t want anyone buying clothes or items for our baby. Instead we have a registry and have experiences on it. So like: an annual membership to the local aquarium, swim lessons, and the like.

[@ohh771]

may i ask if you had a baby shower? im curious how you'd make that more sustainable or if skipping it altogether is easier

[@atomic_tubetop]

This is such a good idea, thank you for sharing!!!

[@sophiecarlisle9216]

That’s an amazing idea!!

[@expensivepink7]

you're awesome!! i love that idea for your registry, too

[@krischezockt1916]

Amazing idea! Any tips on how to convince your loved ones about not buying things anyway? 😅 I wished for nothing but experiences the last few years for christmas and birthdays but especially my parents still always buy stuff I really don’t need or want because „they don’t want to show up empty handed“ 😭

[@Iradeza]

I was just watching one of those "pack for a family for four to go travelling" videos because my daughter wanted to show me. I was blown away by how much STUFF she bought just for a trip and how each kid had like their own mini bottle of shampoo etc... It was ridiculous.

[@angela_tarantulas]

LOL I remember when we went to holidays in our tiny car. Mum, dad, brother and me. We had to pick our stuff wisely!

[@sananmitch1]

Thank you for this video! Yes, please do a video on Temu! I spend a lot of time on KZbin, watching how-to videos for junk journaling (which is supposed to be about using actual junk/stuff around your house/scraps, but has become about BUYING things that look old/found) and Temu has TAKEN OVER the minds of so many in the crafting world right now. It is scary how this company has just exploded into the marketplace. I have been on their site and it is such a playground of overconsumption - everything is dirt cheap and can be shipped to you quickly. So - dirt cheap (because SO much of it is counterfeit stuff / stolen designs, etc.), cheaply made stuff that is shipped directly to you from the other side of the planet. It is an environmental nightmare.

[@nbcommiedyke]

thank you for mentioning this!!!!! I collage and so much stuff under the collage/ junk journal/ art journal tags is people buying NEW things. it drives me nuts.

[@lauraann7816]

I was happy to see your comment- to me a junk journal or scrapbook was something you reused for it. Like a paper menu at a pizzeria and you want to document a fun night out. I see a woman buy literally $80-$100 worth of junk journal materials EVERY week. Sure it's nice to have some cute embellishments- but I haven't spent $80 in my life on junk journal materials. I thought I was maybe nuts.

[@AlanaMcCawley]

I rarely comment on KZbin because watch from my tv, but found my phone because I felt moved and wanted to reply to you. I am an impulse shopper. I am addicted to the ease of amazon. I can relate to the buying of things that I don’t need or even want. I donate unused clothing and gadgets frequently. But I want to do better. I am inspired by this video to do better. I have long tried to do better for the planet. I recycle, I try to buy clothing that I will wear and will get use from. But I deeply feel there is more I can do. I have been watching your videos on greenwashing and reusable and zero waste items. I have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and opinions, I find you refreshing and inspiring.

[@denden798]

Thank you so much for trying to be better. I appreciate your willingness to change

[@shaquillesteinback8839]

i really needed to see this today. as im watching im in the process of packing up to move apartments and in full panic mode looking at all the stuff i need to get rid of. all those little amazon hauls and little trips to the mall for a small treat in the name of retail therapy really add up. for the first time in my life im ok with letting most of my stuff go. money and things come and go, but i cant buy back my sanity and peace of mind

[@goosewithagibus]

Minimalism is the way

[@kristenleaclark]

Ever since following you I swear I have saved so much money. Having the mindset of ‘I have something already that works I don’t need xyz because it’s shiny and new’ is *chefs kiss*

[@yeet7463]

Ugh so glad you are talking about this! It’s so hard to escape consumerism!

[@fantasea114]

I challenged myself last year to spend $0 on clothing because i had a serious problem and was accumulating waaaay too many clothes. and guess what! i did it no problem! i managed to save a shit load of money and i discovered new hobbies for that sweet sweet dopamine. 😂 It's so easy to get trapped into thinking that we constantly need new things, but once you've escaped that mindset it's so freeing!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@needleheadned]

Amazing! Congratulations on your successful no-buy year!

[@gigglesandhugs5690]

I think its sad that we are living in a commercial society. Meaning its hard to find connections anymore its always a sales pitch in most cases not all. It also seems to feed mental health issues like instant gratification instead of thinking about purchases and feeling good about working it out in one way or another. self-esteem issues since we are always told how to be prettier, more popular so on and so forth...

[@reborka]

Consumerism is toxic to our mental health, our finances, and our planet, which in turn hurts our physical health. There’s literal micro plastics in our drinking water. Wonder where that came from…

[@juliadandy6019]

I'm defined not the least consumerist person (working on it) and even I am disgusted navigating social medias lately exactly because of this. You are either seeing a straight up ad, or someone making content around buying things. Even silly cat videos will then have a description linking you to buy cat toys, or something like this. You are doing good work out here! A lot of the work I was able to do so far, though still a long way to go, is def thanks to you.

[@maddylovesgood]

I needed this lol my consumerism has gotten SO BAD in 2023 and I finally reached a point where I paused and was like "what am I doing??". I decided I'm sticking to my budget this month, only doing 1-2 thrift shops and 1-2 other shopping this month MAX and only if I see something incredible. I think what has gotten me is randomly going to TJmaxx or a similar store and picking up 1-3 things, it adds up and can't be good for the planet. Also, tik tok has made me such an impulse spender with skincare products!!

[@reborka]

I think tiktok leads to these impulse buys bc every time you scroll to a new tiktok, you get a new hit of dopamine. I imagine that cant be good for impulse control. Tiktok acts on the brain the same way doing drugs does. Shopping acts on the brain the same way drugs does. I can definitely see the two correlating…

[@louisamillerout]

i consider myself someone who cares about sustainability and tries to pursue it as much as possible, and this video still made me reevaluate my purchasing habits and reconsider my attitude towards acquiring new goods in general. thank you!!

[@jennaleonard3870]

my boyfriend works at the goodwill warehouse, and the amount of "donated" items is RIDICULOUS. Both him and I have stopped buying a lot of things in general, secondhand or not. He's seen first hand how bad consumerism is.

[@chloro8306]

"Buying every little thing that seems interesting" this hits the nail on the head. There's this idea that something, anything, might make your life a little easier, your house a little prettier, etc. It could be a little solution to a little problem. But there are always littler and littler problems...

[@marzipanthequeen]

Your sincerity and message resonated with me - I am 1000% guilty of this. I was in a shop with my sister just last week and like a flash I felt overwhelmed and sickened. What we’re doing just can’t continue. So much unless junk, we’re actively destroying our own lives. It’s all too much

[@Ollie7707]

Really needed this video right now. I’m so impressionable, I see these makeup and fashion videos and start thinking I need all of the things. I’m trying to transition to more natural and nontoxic makeup, so I need to avoid watching beauty videos where influencers look completely plastic and flawless and say they achieved it with conventional makeup, Botox, fillers etc haha. I’m trying to embrace not looking like a porcelain doll and looking a bit more natural since, let’s face it, natural makeup usually isn’t super long wearing and high coverage. And you can still look beautiful with natural or minimal makeup. Thanks for being a positive influence and helping us snap out of the consumeristic mindset.

[@missasakurai4564]

Shelbi, I love your plant backdrop. It really makes watching your video relaxing. Your hair is, as always, gorgeous. And, I agree with your statement that making people feel inadequate in order to convince them to buy things should be illegal. Our mental health suffers from this, and we cannot embrace the uniqueness and beauty of our faces, bodies, hair, and character. Thank you for always fighting the good fight.

[@BouncyBrown]

I've seen some influencers frame their promotion of stuff as "un-gatekeeping" or whatever. they they act like they're so benevolent for sharing where they got their outfit, etc because other evil influencers are so snobby won't say where they got their stuff. 🙄

[@caligurldmc]

Thank you so much for all the good that you do. I was just thinking about the "Things you need on Amazon Part 84"s and "Tik Tok made me buy it pt 128"s. I went through a few large decluttering rounds and I cannot believe how much stuff I have accumulated over the years. With each round, I became more conscious about what I was bringing in. Things that I bring in are far less than before and my mental clarity has increased. Now that I'm moving, this is another massive decluttering project as I do not want to move things that no longer serve me. It's allowed me to reflect on my own consumerism. And when I get to my new place, I plan to not hoard like I used to and buy things that I will not be using regularly or that is not necessary. I definitely don't need a pot set. I rarely use everything in there. Cutlery set? Same thing. Tons of clothes? Nah. I look forward to continuing this minimalist journey I am on.

[@Precious1267]

Please do a video of de-influencing ads. Show Madisons and your ad targeted shorts or TikToks and explain why we don’t need them as a consumer and show alternatives to that ad. Show us like thrift finds for alternatives. Make it a whole series like once a month or something. It can help motivate us as consumers not to buy ads on social media. ❤️

[@madamsloth]

Would love this

[@Pingwn]

I have two rules about buying things: First, I have a monthly budget. I am not going to cross it unless it is important (medical needs and food when the refrigerator is empty). Secondly, if I don't really need it right now, like a gadget or a game (in contrast with food or travel) I would wait a month, or at least two weeks before I decide I really want it. I try to not buy things I don't need and only buying a few things I really like and think I shall use for the long term. Really, when you get into the minimalist consumption mindset it makes your life much easier and healthier.

[@camilarojas6422]

This is honestly the type of video that should be at the top of trending for everyone to see. I’m currently changing my habits and switching to low-waste in preparation for going to university and studying economics and sustainable development. I’ve actually made a research paper on degrowth and it makes me so happy to see that there is a content creator who is educated on these types of things and pushing it in such a responsible manner. Thank you so much for the content you make and for inspiring me to keep studying hard to become someone who can help change the system from its roots❤

[@katp4782]

Yes please - I want to hear more about degrowth!

[@LoveTheAutumnAir]

When I see something in a video or that someone’s wearing I keep in mind the style and what I like about it and then I try to find something that hits that same nerve when I’m next out thrifting. You make such great points about how accessible hyper consumerism is now. So frustrating it just keeps going and going and going.

[@Alina-vt2hk]

Sick beyond sick of influencers making me feel like I need to organize my whole house, get all their outfits and makeup products to be happy

[@ilikeoversizedcoats1837]

You totally reached me back in the day with your approach of pointing out how consumerism is detrimental to my mental and spiritual health, as well as the planet ❤

[@Charlottec968]

I swear temu has only just launched in the uk and I’m already seeing their things for resale on vinted

[@Livmorrow]

I appreciate your content so much. I think I committed to buying less/ almost exclusively secondhand about a decade ago. A cultural thing I haven't had the best luck with is the consumerism around the holidays. My mom loves to shop for people, and it stumps her when I don't want things. I'd love to normalize acts of love as gifts, rather than stuff. I basically stopped buying Christmas gifts and instead take people out to dinner, or something else social.

[@miriamschulten-hirst8228]

I'm really glad I saw this video. I'm not on TikTok, so didn't even know this was a thing! It's honestly shocking!

[@katharineharrison777]

14:22 I recently deleted Tik Tok for this exact reason. My entire FYP is just ads for TikTok shop it’s so annoying.

[@SvetlanaTymoshchuk]

I wanted to say "thank you for your video and the position of a healthy person" ❤. I think not only Americans have increased impulsive buying, but all over the world. Thanks again, sorry for mistakes, I don't know English well.

[@jennylopez1368]

Never stop talking about this subject! It’s so important and it truly is such a struggle to get out of that consumeristic mentality. I know for me I have to be intentionally talking myself out of things all the time, because like you said, consumerism has been so normalized that even family members push the idea of “hey it’s cute treat yourself” well no, treat yourself to a beach day instead!

[@lololpoppy]

I’m a quilter, and when I first started sewing I would obsessively buy fabric. It just hit a wonderful part of my brain and felt SO good. Now 2 years in to my sewing life, I have a style I love. I appreciate good quality fabric and no longer buy cheap (even if it’s pretty) I haven’t bought fabric without a specific purpose since November. I buy for projects and follow the fabric requirements closely with a little wiggle room. I stepped away from my hoard of fat quarters and realised I had 200 pieces of fabric I may die owning. So I’m doing my big hitter quilts in my signature style but I’m also doing simple quilts in fabrics I previously bought to try and make use of the hoard. Eventually I want all my fabric stock to be my own style. One day I can dream!

[@pinemartin6604]

There's options for sustainable sewing. I don't know the last time I bought first hand fabric (quite a few years ago), I buy old bedsheets, use old clothes, items charity shops don't want, offcuts/remnants. If I were to buy fabric it would need to be the most sustainable and ethical option (organic, eco dye, no slavery) which is usually unaffordable to me. I still really need to destash my bed sheet collection though.

[@lololpoppy]

Luckily my favourite fabric (Art Gallery Fabric) is oekotex approved which really reassures me. I know what I’m making will last lifetimes as I try to make sure I sew carefully. I always use clearance or second hand bedding for my quilt backing as it seems wasteful to sew yardage together when bedding is already the perfect size. Plus second hand is usually lovely and soft from washing. I do my best but it’s not perfect.

[@CarolTurner-z9u]

This is the first video of yours that I’ve watched and it’s made a huge impact on me. When I see someone rocking an article of clothing that I think would also work for me, why is my first reaction to buy one for myself? When I go to an art museum and see incredible paintings I don’t feel the need to get a replica to put on my own wall (I love art, I don’t have enough walls). If I see trees, flowers etc. in someone’s garden I don’t try to plant them myself (lol I have a black thumb. So I’m just going to start appreciating how 20:47 how beautiful the clothes looks on them and not feel I need to see myself in the mirror in it. Just because I like it, whether a dress or Knick knack etc. doesn’t mean I myself have to own it. My ha know Pinterest, I pin the image and it’s like I bought it. I love the blouse you’re wearing, my favorite color and it would be perfect here in Texas for summer, so if I ever meet you here in July I will mention how perfect it is…have a great day and God bless

[@CupcakeReturns]

I want everyone I know to watch this, desperately!

[@sheriffcherub]

my fav thing when i rlly want something is check a no buy list i make at the start of the year and see if it falls in the no buy category, then also wait awhile to make sure i LOVE it.

[@deanna9113]

Yesss. Instagram is just full of ads and it’s not even enjoyable anymore

[@katherine6082]

Mic situation sounded great! Would looooove a video about degrowth as well! So happy you released this video because I've been thinking about my instagram ads all week, and it's also the reason I find myself on there for little to no time each day because I'm so sick of seeing ads and all this weird attempted temptation to buy the silliest things. I log on, roll my eyes at the "gadgets" and just end up closing the app. Always love your stuff, even if it a small reminder that I'm not alone in this. (:

[@GeorgeGlass298]

Idk how you came through my algorithm but I'm so glad I found you because you're basically talking about everything I'm passionate about.

[@PrettyAliceNight]

I hate that it’s so hard to fix what you have and so easy to just buy new. Great video!

[@rosjackson]

There are a few platforms for content that don't rely on advertising and affiliate marketing, and because of the ads on platforms like this I find I'm spending more time and them, and less time on the busier social media platforms. For a creator, consider whether you could create a tutorial for a paid-for platform, or join a creator collective like Nebula. It's not just that online ads suck - the drive for eyeballs at all costs distorts the kind of content that gets made.

[@samiquartuccio9754]

i’ve been so interested in consumerism and have noticed my habits (old now) where i used to buy just for the sake of buying! it now takes me days to figure out if i want to genuinely get something and it usually ends up being a no. i’m proud to say that most of my clothes are from goodwills or second hand and the only things i will buy “new” are jeans or pants. that’s just the way i live my life in a sustainable way! thank you for making this video! i also love going on tiktok and just seeing all of the garbage that they buy. i love the question “what are you going to use that for?” “and for how long?” anyways. thankfully i’ve seen a lot more creators on tiktok watch those heavy consumerism pages and just say “yeah that’s trash. you don’t need that”

[@ShaylaEnoch]

Thank you for speaking on this major issue; this hyper consumerism has gotten way out of hand and it's truly concerning 😟😰

[@cartwheelheart]

I LOVED this video. So many great points. It's so easy to get sucked into the cycle. I stopped using Instagram and TikTok months ago and have noticed that I am a lot less stressed without it. I think with Instagram especially there is pressure to have your own sort of "personal brand" and it perpetuates consumerism culture. Without social media, I feel like I am genuinely happy with the things I do have and feel more compelled to take care of them rather than replace them with other things. My wallet thanks me too!

[@mokona9283]

Thank you for your insight, Shelbee !!

[@meghanhughes]

this video rules! you slayed this script honestly

[@1973InternationalKid]

I am HERE for this Shelbi! Would love a video on degrowth. ❤️

[@peaceknot]

This is perfect timing considering I just began a no buy year. And while I don't fall into the fast fashion trap, it is so true that I can see something on a KZbin video, Pinterest or IG and I want that item. An item I didn't know existed minutes before. Sometimes a reset is good, esp right now where we are constant targets of marketing.

[@Veganbri]

More sustainable brands needs to be more accessible. Better than it was a few years ago. But it’s not affordable, advertised (to get the word out about said brand/products/programs), or again accessible. My purchases are more thought out compared to how they used to be. I do a lot of research on everything that I buy that can be exhausting.

[@helenapflaum6800]

It’s important to understand that no truly sustainable/ethical brand can be as affordable as Shein/Temu/Amazon. Some can reach lower prices (perhaps on par with Zara/H&M) but this is only possible for certain brands. The reasons for this have to do with living wages for garment workers, but also farmers, mills, shop keepers, small business owners and many more, as well as more expensive materials (unfortunately sustainable materials can sometimes be more expensive than conventional), and necessary markups designed to keep brands running. Loud Bodies (a size inclusive sustainable ethical brand) has some good points on this on their instagram. But in general rather than advocating for lower price points I believe we should advocate for living and high wages for everyone which will make cost of living-truly sustainable brands included-easier to afford. I’m curious by what you mean with accessible? I was thinking size inclusive which is a huge problem with a lot of brands-but what else do you think I could be missing?

[@Sarah-cy8bc]

Thank you, I know this was sort of a vent for you but it was cathartic for me, too. You took all the thoughts right out of my brain and backed them up with specifics. I feel like I’m going crazy because I feel totally isolated in my discontent with how things have been going on social media and how accepted this hellscape is. I think I’m gonna keep the link to this video in a safe place to reference when someone asks me why I’m “so weird” about these things.

[@joannescantlebury744]

Thanks for the honest approach to such a detrimental issue. I grew up with parents who thrift shopped and recycled and fixed a broken item. I thought they were just being miserly at the time,but fast forward and I’m grateful for their lifestyle choices. I’d be interested n a temu discussion. Keep up your fantastic work,and thanks again.❤😅

[@chasejohnson3645]

One tip I saw in another creator's video (can't remember her channel name so feel free to mention if you know who) is to grab any small container you already have and "shop" around your house for things you already have. I've ended up finding some self care products I forgot I had, so instead of repurchasing, I'm using what I already have

[@savannah4439]

Fwiw, when I see a piece of clothing that I love and ask where people got it, I never have the intention to buy it immediately. Usually I will find it by the original company so I can find the official name, then I search it on secondhand sites. I never really buy clothes online regardless of where they’re from though so maybe I’m not the best person to ask 😂

[@carissatripp3347]

I'm so glad you made this video! It really does feel like the internet consumerism is out of control. I've become so tired of hearing people say "link in bio" or "in my Amazon storefront." It's also frustrating because I know how easily I, personally, can be influenced and have to constantly be fighting the thought of "oh, I could use that!" I want that culture shift too!

[@enforcedyuqui8000]

Thank you for speaking on this!! Anytime I buy like any skincare, or anything I use on a daily basis, I usually will buy secondhand on apps like Mercari. Because so many people get these subscription boxes and freebies from Ulta and Sephora and never use them and just sell them. I would love if you could do a video on degrowth, that's a topic I am always trying to learn more about!

[@Jakkiroxx105]

Thank you so much for speaking on the issue of over consumerism. People need to be grateful for the stuff they already have because not all people have stuff and a roof over their head. There are homeless people living on the street who'd greatly appreciate a bed and a roof over their head.

[@alyssastewart738]

You’re not the only one that has been bombarded with tiktok shop! I don’t even know why they recommend any of the videos, I make a conscious decision not to like any of them and now I’ve started scrolling past and not even watching and they STILL are nonstop!

[@Heledehana]

SAME! My fyp is all ads and it’s such a bummer. It really turned after they moved their servers stateside.

[@virgosun1991]

You’re like the only person I can relate to. I’m so done with Instagram and constantly feeling like I have to buy the next thing. I’m on day 4 no IG and I have already been sleeping better and feel like my mind isn’t on a spinny wheel

[@New-Hat-Gardening]

I have this terrible thing I say but it’s so true. Whenever my husband and I walk into and store especially big box stores and I say “Everything in here will eventually end up in the trash “ It hits hard.

[@lexyeast4896]

This microphone has really helped with video sound. Thank you 🙏

[@sunglassesemojis]

Thank you for the acknowledgement of the value of both individual and collective action. I have a friend who does environmental engineering and she buys all her furniture, tech, most of her clothes, etc brand new. When I have brought up the role of anti-consumerism and eco minimalism as necessary conditions for environmental recovery, she just dismisses the value of individual action in favor of governmental action alone. Even with better environmental regulations, it is impossible for the whole world of 8 billion to live like she does

[@abbeyroberts9668]

My girlfriend actually uses Temu a lot now and I didn’t realize how much of a thing it was until recently lol. Girl I love all your videos!! 💕

[@nesspav]

I am so glad that you exist online! This is beyond refreshing to hear outspoken in this completely crass day and age!! I have unplugged ages ago, watching it get worse is extremely saddening

[@shirleycarvajal193]

Yes a video on Temu and degrowth! Btw-this is just what I needed to motive myself since I've felt a little helpless lately on my sustainability journey, thank you

[@Human-lg8hb]

This is one of the reasons I prefer to use cash. I only have a certain amount on me at a time, I can’t over spend and I need to think wisely on what I really want to spend that money on. I also thankfully don’t have a credit card, only debit, because if I did have one I would probably go into severe debt. There is no point in buying something now if you don’t have the money for it, if you don’t have the money now then you probably won’t have it next month either.

[@amyward8861]

I moved houses the week before Amazon prime day. I had saved up a decent cart of things that I would need for a new house (going from a one bedroom). I also threw in a few deals of things I had been wanting. I was so embarrassed that the week I moved in I got a million Amazon packages, even though I checked all the boxes for as few boxes as possible. I didn't want my postal workers thinking I was that kind of person. At least now I barely have gotten anything in the past week. I can't believe people think of that as #goals. Edit: You've also inspired me to furnish my entire house with second hand furniture and as much other stuff as possible. I haven't even hit the thrift stores yet and am having great luck so far.

[@KikiBethSays]

Thank you for making this video. I don’t use TikTok but on IG I feel like I’ve been inundated with beautiful aesthetic accounts that it’s hard not to envy, and the vast majority of reels are “buy this thing”. It’s reassuring to remember I don’t need to catch up to them and in fact it’s better for the planet to be satisfied with less. On a related note I’m interested to hear more about your thoughts on small business, is it okay to consume if you’re supporting someone’s art, etc.

[@kimanna_]

Thanks to KZbin and the algoritm for recommending this video, loved it! This is exactly how I feel about this topic. So glad to hear someone else speaking about it and to know that there are more likeminded people. Thanks you for making this video and now I will consume your other videos. ;)

[@peachyprincess78]

Thank you for this video!! I’ve felt this way for the past few years which is why I am not active on any social media for about a year now and it has been amazing for my mental health!!

[@kate4biglittlevoices]

12:39 “I don’t want to contribute to More consumerism” Subbed 🎉

[@GothBatty]

It’s always been this way even in tv/movies

[@Ariesmary3387]

PLEASE do a Temu video, the junk people buy is amazing!

[@kstina9563]

i was falling for it, having been shown temu by a few influencers. im so glad your video popped up, and reminded me of what i actually think.

[@kalypsodeepsea982]

I don't buy stuff I don't need. The rare times I do I wait three months for it, and most of the time, I don't buy it. I am called cheap and frugal for prioritizing quality over quantity and for being careful with my money. I have a job and a decent paycheck, so it's more a principle thing. But everyone else I know, damn, they buy everything when they see it. They don't even ask questions before checking out. It's beyond me 🤷🏼‍♀️. Also, as someone who loves traveling around the world, I don't buy new things just for ny trips. I buy what I'll definitely need (shampoo and conditioner in bars) and can use afterwards. I also don't buy souvenirs on my trips, unless they are authentic. I also used the same suitcase for 20 years and only recently got a new one because mine was falling apart.

[@Lizzz37]

Totally agree with everything you're saying . When buying a product i HAVE to ask myself questions like, "do i really need it?" "Could its use be the same as something i already have? (Even if its more practicle than what i have i dont need it) "will i still need it in the long run?" And ofcourse try to get the best of its kind, something durable that wont break easy and i can have for many years.