Just Don't Buy It: A Practical "De-influencing" | Things I Regret Buying, During My No Buy Year!?!?

[@TheThriftingTherapist]

As a therapist specializing in addictions, both substance and process, I feel compelled to tell you something crucial! Be gentle on yourself. It is hard to give up the thing that was meeting the need if there is not something else meeting the need in its place. Go underneath the behavior and get curious about what needs shopping might meet. You are doing amazing and we are so grateful you are brave enough to share this process for us all to learn from!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you so much. I just finished reading your thesis that you were kind enough to send me, and really enjoyed it! I wish I'd read it before filming next week's "fashion/personal style" videos, as I might have talked about a couple of things a bit differently or with a bit more nuance - but ah well, I've added some more info to my mind-bank for next time! Again - thank you! And very interesting work 😊

[@TheThriftingTherapist]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear thank you so much!

[@courtneymauss]

A "stupid decision" doesn't make you a stupid person. When I think about how many people are out there, shilling these things like greens powders (or makeup products, or articles of clothing, or frying pans, or whatever!) that they TELL us will *change our lives* it makes me really upset. We, as consumers, are being sold this level of perfect existence (that doesn't exist, by the way) if only we had the *right* things. Our insecurities are constantly being exploited. And when these influencers peddle this snake oil at us, it makes me even more angry. We follow people because we trust them, and they exploit our trust as a bartering tool to get more money from these bogus companies. Sure, the greens powder made their lives better, but only because they got $5k for a 60 second ad about it, without regard to how it hurts their following. In some cases, it goes beyond advertising, it practically becomes peer-pressure with the sheer amount of people talking about it. It's constant bombardment of "BUY THIS THING TO PREVENT YOUR FEARS COMING TRUE!" You aren't a stupid person. You're a normal person who was manipulated and essentially peer pressured into buying a product, because you wanted to be happy and healthy, to live a long time for your children. These companies and these influencers exploited that, and it makes them evil. It doesn't make you stupid.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you for this kind and contextual comment. 🥹 While I "know" that everything you've said is true, at the same time I still want to make the choices that result in me not falling for this kind of nonsense - and maybe those choices are actually consuming less of the kind of content that has the ads! I don't WANT to be exploited anymore! And I don't blame "influencers" personally for taking the money, but I do feel(hope) that the winds are changing and that more people are getting mad about it, wise to it, and that this kind of marketing manipulation will have to decrease or go away.

[@andreasamudio7272]

What a great point: we are being sold the idea of a perfect existence. Being super healthy, cooking from scratch, eating organic, working out everyday, morning routines that start at 5 am, wardrobes full of luxury goods for us just average working people. Perfect skin. The list goes on. This is probably some of the most damage done to the population by social media. Life doesn’t have to be this rat race. It’s exhausting, keeping up with all of this.

[@sunnysaz30]

I don’t see that you should have regrets because it’s all lessons learned and progress made. Nothing is a stupid purchase if you gained insight, further self-awareness and a future change of perspective for the better. You’re doing great and sharing your journey is helpful for others 😊x

[@northern999]

The last stupidest thing I bought was Glossybox advent calendar. They got me with the sales and influencer advertising. I really regret this. I have 13 beauty advent calendars this season. I‘m really ashamed of myself and need help. Your channel is like a stream of fresh air for me. Thank you so much, dear Alexa ❤

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Awareness and desire to change is the first step! I'm here for you!

[@annie-sc]

Found one of your videos just recently and I instantly subbed. It's almost like finding a rare gem on KZbin -- you seem very genuine and unique.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you so much, and welcome!

[@RockPunkBallerina]

I use a plastic claw clip daily and have very long hair of average thickness. The hairstyle does indeed not stay put when I'm active. However, what I found helpful is to put my hair in a low ponytail, just above my neck, and then put the tail in the clip. Hopefully the low ponytail shouldn't give you a headache but it helps the hair be more stable with the claw clip. 😊

[@yalazha]

I don't know if the clip was such a bad idea! You had a well defined goal, the things you owned didn't do a good job. Say, even if we do a lot of research into that plastic claw clip, we are still taking a chance and the only way to know is to use it. Sometimes we get lucky and sometimes we get disappointed. (I admit that reasoning can be applied to justify extra spending too, haha!) As a counterpoint, I have used tools that weren't really good for my purposes, finally use the good one, and am amazed how significant the difference is. I do think that I wasted my time not using it earlier, but that doesn't matter since I can't change the past.

[@luciebradley7150]

You are not stupid! Learning the hard way is often the most effective. I can vouch for that. The amount of clothes I bought only to learn they were not for me 😭 but like I said lesson learnt 😊

[@andreasamudio7272]

I really appreciate your reflection on the phone box. The main point to take home with all of the stuff in the end is what you said there. No piece of plastic or fabric or whatever is going to make you happier, less addicted, more free, more Relaxed, less stressed, more content, more satisfied with your outer appearance, and all of the things we wish for ourselves. All of that can ONLY come from the work we do from the inside. Pretty much everything else is just a distraction to trick us into thinking we are accomplishing something when we are actually not.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

What you said at the end is so powerful! Everything else is a distraction...so many things in life feel like this, a distraction from the things we would consciously choose to focus on if we were not distracted. I'm really trying to tackle the "distraction of media" right now, it'll soon start appearing on this channel - I've tried to do this before, but learning about the workings of addictive behaviors at the same time is helping me this time around.

[@andreasamudio7272]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear im on the same journey when it comes to distraction… I deleted all social media, Amazon gmail and almost all apps from my phone and now designate a specific time a day to check on my emails and do the errands I would do on my phone but I sit down with my laptop, alone and focused on the tasks. I’m tired of feeling like I’m always busy. Always paying someone, talking to someone, planing something, checking emails, checking messages, researching this or that, whatever pops up in my mind there I was googling it, the traffic light is red and there I am checking emails and texts. I just need it all to stop. The phone is a big problem for me because it just feels like it triggers a never ending “productivity” addiction. That’s why I’m trying to eliminate as much as I can from it so I can actually learn more about how to get out of this hell hole!

[@lillianbarker4292]

We all think we are immune to advertising but we aren’t. The best I can do is have a hobby other than shopping and try not to buy stuff for that hobby 😂

[@josefinekarlsson207]

It is not the last thing I bought, but one of the most obvious in the category "i thought buying a thing would solve a behaviour problem for me" is a little hand held vacuum cleaner. I bought it but it was still crumbs in my sofa! But it made me realize that that two vacuum cleaners was not the solution to my crumb problem, it was actual vacuuming :P

[@пчелинаяпчёлка]

I love my handheld vacuum cleaner, it's a perfect combo with robocleaners.

[@testing1-2three]

I agree with the comments, the knowledge learned from the mistakes is worth it & important.

[@LadyVintageBags]

Thanks to yourself and Shawna Ive nearly my first no buy month of August! I tried "low buy" but that didn't quite pan out. Thank you for taking us on your journey, people like me have been helped along the way ❤❤

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

🥰

[@CS-ly3lx]

Put a date on your new sheet music for when you believe you will realistically be able to get around to practicing it, like January 2025 (after all the year-end concerts are over). Then, instead of thinking of it as a premature purchase, look forward to when you will be able to play it. Keep it in eyesight and just read through it now and then, when you have a coffee break, for instance. Then when you can finally begin practicing it, you will already be very familiar with it.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Great idea - the tricky thing in practicality right now is that all of my coffee-break time is currently devoted to audition practice and I don't really want to break focus on that with other music....but on the bright side, I'm not ruminating over my purchase regrets either, and also "no-buying" has perhaps gotten easier? With such an immediate, focus-requiring goal. But, I will have to be very careful not to let possible failure/rejection that comes with these goals, tip me back into the "wanting to shop" abyss! (I actually just filmed a video talking about this very trap 😅)

[@Sheisonautopilot]

Oh no the greens powder! Sorry that was a flop :/ Good on you for powering through it! I totally relate to the disappointment of the product not solving the problem you thought it would. I'm an anxious traveler so bags, gadgets, and gimmicky convertible stuff always gets me. My latest was a sling bag I got because I didn't like how all my plane stuff except my Kindle fits in my crossbody wallet. It's sitting unused in my closet and I hate it. I don't need more/new/different stuff. I just need to manage my mind. ETA: All to say, you are absolutely not alone, and I'm one of many who appreciates you continuing to show up :)

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Haha the greens powder is pretty much a supporting character on this channel by now 🤣 Luckily I haven't traveled for fun for awhile (just 2-3 day "business" trips for auditions) otherwise I'm sure some of the latest "innovations" would have gotten me too! Here's to managing our minds! Thank you for sharing!

[@isabellerininger6249]

Aww, you’re doing great-progress over perfection!🎉 Hair thoughts: I braid mine; French braid makes life soo much cooler and corralled.👍

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you! I'm admittedly not great at a French braid, but I have found a temporary solution - through a haircut 😆

[@jeanetteyarbrough3286]

The last thing I bought that I regret are those hair ties for thick hair. The regular hair ties weren't cutting it for me and like you I thought they would solve my problem. I stopped wearing them after a few days because they were making the lower part of my head really tender. I found an old scrunchie under my couch that does the job a much better. Now, they were only $10 but it led me down a shopping spree which I'm still reeling from.

[@krychickspp2745]

Hi there!! I paused while you described the "side effects" of having very long hair and needing it to stay put while wearing it up. I feel your pain, and quite literally, lol. I want to recommend something without influencing you to break your no-buy year. This is technically a needed item for your work and home life. I know this because you've mentioned it several times over a few different videos. I'll share what works for me and leave it. I hope it's not triggering for you. I wouldn't even suggest it if it wasn't an order of magnitude better than claw clips or hair bands. Bonus?? No headaches. I am similar to you in both height and hair length. The end of my hair hits the tail end of my back. It's also extremely thick, thus the headaches. You'd never think hair could weigh so much!! When I need my hair to really stay put I use Asian-style hair sticks and especially U-Pins. I would recommend U-Pins while performing over hair sticks. I prefer the look and the grip of U-Pins. I use mine while playing drums, so believe me when I say they're great for people with very long hair who don't want it flying all over the place. I bought a U-Pin for less than $2 from eBay to try (though I've also seen them in drug stores/Dollar stores, or, if you have a local beauty supply store that will let you buy things without owning/working for a salon (some will only sell in bulk). They're beautiful, minimal, and functional to the extreme. A lot of them are made of wood, too, so that's better than plastic ones that will stick around long after we've gone. I was quite pleased that for once something actually worked without frustrating me!! It was like the clouds parted and the good Lord made a miracle. I know you need to wear all black when at work- great!! There are many made of black coloured wood so it would blend right into your hair. I use my U-pins while playing drums, because no matter how hard I rock out, that U-pin won't budge at all and none of your hair will escape it. I use the hair sticks in my day-to-day life. They're not quite as secure as U-Pin. Theys make my musical life and home life much better as I don't have to keep adjusting my hair all day long. Good luck!! I do love your channel. You've even influenced me to try an undetermined length no-buy period of my own, so I thank you.

[@Kitteh342]

Hihi. I need to know more about these pins! they u shaped Bobby pins? Or are they French pins? Is there a tutorial that we could follow? My head hurts from all the weight and tension. TIA!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

This reminds me I used to have a U-pin! If they can work for a drummer, surely it'll be sufficient for a mere violist...I'll look into this for the future but in the meantime I have a temporary solution - a haircut 😆 Would love to hear no-buy updates on how it goes!

[@lemontree9019]

You can use a chop stick or a pencil to check if this work for you.. and then upgrade to u shape

[@yalazha]

Last regret was probably home decor from vintage sellers. I had a few duds: 1. A marble bud vase - I occasionally purchase cut flowers but not the kind that suits the vase, plus it didn’t match my furniture very well. 2. A small wall mirror for makeup - I am still trying to figure out which wall to hang this on! 3. Additionally I bought a new phone case, but it had a poor magnetic strength and didn’t attach well to my card holder. Given how much I use it at work and on the go, I went back to using my old one.

[@moonsidecafe]

I'm starting over with my "no buy" in August. I've had some mishaps for sure but I'm not giving up. I think it's a real process when you (I) have gone from some serious shopping over the years, to mindful consumerism. My last regretful purchase? A purse that is too small! It doesn't even fit my phone! Lesson learned and I'm moving onward and upward 👍. Thanks for your realistic and extremely helpful videos 😊

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Haha well hopefully you can still find some fun ways to style the too-small purse, but yes - onwards and upwards!!

[@Tanguy2030]

I think you're doing great. very reflective, courageous, honest and authentic. I admire you for that. keep it up 👏🏼👏🏼🌹

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you 🥹

[@juliehanson1175]

It's hard when things don't live up to your expectations when orderling online - color, size, material, usefulness. So that happens. It's more rare to actually LOVE something you get, but it does happen. Also it seems like I have to splurge a little bit on some things and maybe be a little disappointed before I pull back and really think about what I'm ordering and if I really need it. Just the way it is.

[@MerlynBarkhuizen]

You are not stupid - just human❤

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

🥰

[@waitwhat8321]

Great video. I'm not going to lie I knew you regretted the black and white plaid vest when you wore it in a video. You tugged at it a few times and adjusted it a few it seemed like you weren't super comfortable in it. I have not made any regrettable purchases lately but the list through my lifetime is probably as long as your arms and legs put together. But I think that's why I watch your channel. Also off topic but the little clip of you in the car before your dental procedure is funnily adorable .....made me giggle I think you were smart to cut it where you did.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yeah it's definitely a kind of "newer style" for me and as far as fit, I could have perhaps gotten a size smaller - BUT, since I talked about regretting it I've made a point to wear it more (even at home, or perhaps, especially at home) and it's become more of a "comfy item" that I see in a new way - if you feel like tuning into next week's "style" videos you'll see it in my "home outfit" for the final day, and I think I've gotten used to it! So at least there's a happy ending for the vest. And yes totally do not regret getting the oral sedation for that dental procedure! It made it a lot easier...and brought out the "weirdness within" on the way there 😆

[@waitwhat8321]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear I’m glad you found a way to make it work. I think you are right it was a bit oversized for you. Buying the right size is always a struggle online.

[@aemywong3086]

From one musician to another, I feel the sheet music regrets (and many many silly impulsive music/and non music related buys) as I also have multiples on my shelf that I have never given the time of day to even look at. To make things worse, I am both a pianist and a violist so one can only imagine the crazy obsession I get when it comes to wild unnecessary purchases. I think my biggest purchase regret (although not a recent one) is buying a top of the range clavinova instead of an acoustic Piano. Like you, my rational was I already play on an acoustic at work so why not have a fun one at home! Sigh...10k gone just like that! I was so gullible and caught up in the moment when the SA demo for me. Am kicking myself everyday since then and trying to make it work. So, don't be too hard on yourself. I admire your grit and perserverance to keeping to your goal, just get up and keep going on those 'weak' days. All the best!!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ooh, piano and viola? I also had piano lessons as a kid but piano was always too "hard" for me, I couldn't perform on piano without something going horribly wrong 😅 I actually don't know what a clavinova is!!

[@aemywong3086]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear haha. Well a clavinova is a type of electric piano marketed by Yamaha. The one I got is from the high end range almost like a grand piano but not acoustic. It comes with lots of preset buttons for all instruments (plus more like voice and special effects) and a whole rhythm section! The grand piano patch boasts the CFX GP and the Bosendorfer amongst others. The pedals allow for effects on the different instruments like slides, pitch blend, guitar tap etc. Comes with a really decent bass and overall sound system. Can hook up a mic and do sing-a-longs. Literally one can compose on it and record it too! Even with ALL these I realise I much prefer the good old acoustic piano coz of the touch and feel! It was a novelty that lost its lustre very quickly :(

[@JehanineMelmoth]

Hell, I admire you so much for even trying a no-buy year and making so few mistakes. My wage just came in when I was at peak hormones, and I just bought a bunch of stupid stuff. I’ve been watching Diana on Un-blah Yourself, and I love her, and she uses scarves a lot - round her neck, on her head, as belts, all over the place, in stylish ways. So guess what I’ve bought. And there are ones I’ve bid on, on EBay, where I’m just praying that someone else outbids me. I’m not a scarf person. I’m barely a getting dressed person (disabled and work from home). So that about £150 that I can’t afford on stuff I don’t want or need for my fantasy self who doesn’t exist. I could cry. So please - Pat yourself on the back for the amazing job you’re doing. When the eBay auctions end, I’m going to try a no-buy WEEK. Wish me luck…

[@rachelalacey]

It would be a fun experiment to use the items and dress like your fantasy self for a week, even though you’re at home.. I am a stay at home mom now and I have a hard time getting dressed for the day. I used to love curating an outfit for work each day, and now I feel like it’s a moot point. But after reading your comment, I‘ve had the thought that perhaps I should return to my curated wardrobe practice just for me. Make the nostalgic fantasy self a reality again. No one else will see it, but perhaps it will boost my mood to consider my granted-by-Someone-else existence the occasion worthy of dressing nice? Not to mention making life easier when I do have to leave my house (as I currently scramble to put on public-safe clothing)… Hmm, now I’m thinking hard on this.

[@JehanineMelmoth]

@@rachelalacey sounds like a plan. I’m definitely more open these days to wearing fancier things if I feel like it. But I’m too disabled to tie scarves creatively or smartly - I can’t physically do it. I’m angry with myself for buying clothes I can’t wear. The only upside I can find is that the charity shop is going to get some very cool donations!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Good luck! At first I was taking it one day at a time as well and I had a little coloring chart to fill in "successful no buy days"... so we really do just have to "start somewhere" even if we aren't ready!

[@JehanineMelmoth]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear thank you for your understanding and encouragement. Much appreciated. Xxx

[@wisdomstar9145]

I just wanted to say how much I’m enjoying your videos Alexa and really appreciate your thoughts and work. It’s like I’ve been slowly opening my eyes to consumer patterning I’ve been deep in and I’m suddenly a bit more awake! But once you’re aware, you can’t unsee the crazy level to which we are bombarded with advertising. I’ve started unsubscribing/leaving the videos now of content creators that have a triggering or clothes related sponsor now. Some of these gals have been a real fixture in my subscriptions and speak a lot about under consumption…so I’m like…really??? I’m feeling a bit conflicted about how I feel about their work now. I cannot believe I used to almost not notice when they were wearing clothes from a particular brand and then lo and behold! They were the sponsor of the day! Or the clothes were beautifully curated on a hanging rail behind them WHILST they talked about how to re use and re wear what we have and how to shop your own wardrobe! It’s kind of sad and I feel a bit silly!!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

First of all, SAME, and second of all, I don't think we should feel silly, (even if we DO)...I'm still not sure that some of these creators even realize what it seems like to those of us on the other side sometimes, because it's just what influencers "do" these days. Compared to everything we see in this online landscape, it's so "normal!" And honestly if I hadn't seen these other creator's examples I may have been in danger of falling into the same trap myself, so I really don't blame anybody... but I do feel like we are collectively reaching a turning point (or saturation point?) where more and more people don't want to see so much sponsored-content in relation to the genuine, authentic updates or creations.

[@y.preyer]

I bought lately IKEA storage organizers and sunglasses for my work. Both are mega useful. 👍👍👍

[@plum1018]

I just found your channel yesterday and your helping me already! Thank you!!

[@zuzzzap]

Hi Alexa, glad I found Your channel. My last regret came in the post today. I heard so much great things about Sezane, but the prices are steep for me. I found earrings on Vinted for around 20-25 Euros. They seemed nice and they were Sezane so I had to buy them right? They are plasticy, too heavy and one of them has some sort of a flaud that makes it fall off my ear. Pricey lesson, but no more Sezane for me, no thanks 🙃

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ooh yes, although I had a "Sezane era" myself (a few years ago now!) I never ventured into the jewelry or shoes/bags - I've heard that lately the quality doesn't match the hype and wonder if, like so many businesses that start smaller and grow, they just haven't kept up with the "original standards" - my own "Sezane collection" has been slowly decluttered and while I will keep a few sweaters, I don't plan to buy from them again.

[@lemontree9019]

Last regret is 2 pants from benetton... I had a rule not buying front benetton any more because their stuff is very cheaply made and every time I decluter them... but! I was in need for some pants, they were cotton (hard to find nowadays) what bad would have happened? They are eachy, And it looks very frumpy. Needless to say... I could have use those money for one good pare of pants... now I have nothing to wear again!!! Please don't talk to yourself like that.. even you make mistakes... you are trying really hard and you have good results. Marketing is soooo powerful, they are paying enormous amounts to get you. You are doing amazing!!

[@VictoriaS1318]

Hearth and hand at target always gets me. Especially at fall time. It was a real struggle to stay away from it this year but I did!!!!! I refuse to have decorations stored (seasonal or not) if it’s not out, it’s gone. I did go down the lipstick rabbit hole though which I regretted immediately

[@AlexHider]

I know….it’s so gosh darn cute

[@redrover2370]

A style content creator, Ellie Jean, made me aware of Wear It Well and I almost bought it on Prime day but instead I reserved it at my library. I’m glad I waited as I didn’t get too much more than what I got from watching Ellie Jeans videos

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes - I actually didn't really get a lot out of Wear It Well, which makes me nervous for my video about it next week! But basically I learned that I should consider the perspective of the author before purchasing a book - Allison Bornstein works with people so far removed from my lifestyle that it didn't really translate 😢

[@danamatsukawa4762]

a lot of things don't measure up to my expectations after I order them. Being thoughtful in my purchases is my goal rather than no buying. One of my strategies to avoiding buying regret is an EReader. Yes that requires buying the device and there are ecological consequences from doing so. Nevertheless, it means I rarely buy books I don't end up liking. Being able sample all books before I buy is a great help. Also, being able to get the newest books is a real plus. My library doesn't carry a lot of books I am interested in and has long waiting lists for new books. (Ebooks too) I have a learning disorder, so it isn't possible for me to finish most books in the time allotted. Add to that eyesight problems that can be somewhat relieved by being able to adjust print size and screen color and this has become a tool that has helped me a great deal and wouldn't want to be without.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes! I also read a lot with an E-Reader and get books from the library - but these particular books were in that category of having a long waitlist, or only being available on audiobook, which isn't a format I like most of the time. It's tough because part of me thinks owning physical books is fine, and part of me wants to "live lightly" and not own as many physical books 😅I will confess that I've never outright purchased an e-book, maybe that's something I need to get used to and like you said at least I won't have the physical books as physical regrets!

[@ivanajukicgloban6627]

You are very normal human being...makeing mistake and learning from them + brave to share it and with atention to teach us something veluable❤😊

[@BetaBetaZZ]

I understand what you mean about 📕 “wear it well” I listened to it in audiobooks, and in my opinion is a great book for someone who’s starting from 0 and has no clue about their own style. The books has great exercises that will guide someone step by step and come to a conclusion. For me I been there so lots of the exercises where useless, but I can see how useful is for someone else.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

So I really hope you aren't bothered by my reaction to "Wear It Well" - if you see that later this week! My big take away was actually that this book is not for me at all, and even some of the exercises I don't think would work for some people even if they wanted to try. I was also a little frustrated about how it was presented sometimes because I didn't understand a lot of the "designer references" she would use. (Names of models and celebrities for style examples). BUT I don't think it was her fault! It was MY fault for not thinking about whether she was talking to me when she wrote it! I really tried hard not to seem judgemental of the author but highlight that it was my problem for not thinking about the benefits of me reading it before I bought the book 😅

[@marialeg2367]

I wouldn't call these decisions stupid. What's more, we've all "been there done that". I'd love to hear more about the green powder though. I've recently been making an effort to improve some bad habits that I've had related to health and nutrition. What I found most difficult was to face the situation and find the intrinsic motivation to pull through. The actions that I decided to do were quite simple -- eating more fruit and vegetables. Basically, shopping and cooking in a different way, albeit not a more "complicated" one. And it has had an incredible impact on my well-being and the way I feel. Sometimes simplicity is the answer! Though I can absolutely relate to the hope of "buying a product" or relying on a magic powder to sort of bypass that process. Sometimes we think we're making it easier for ourselves but we're really making things more complicated than they should be. BTW, I really enjoy your content. Best of luck on your no buy from Argentina! :)

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ah, Argentina! I would LOVE to visit, closest I have been is Chile. There is yet another update on the greens powder in my "story" here - I discovered that I actually am going through a bit of a health issue at the moment and that's why I had the "body aches" that I thought might be nutritional deficiency - but it's actually a (hopefully temporary) hyperthyroid state - I'll be doing another video about this discovery soon 😅 But yes sometimes we already know the answers, it's often the simplest way, you are so right about that.

[@marialeg2367]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear thank you so much for your kind reply. I hope you're able to visit some day! I recommend Buenos Aires, the capital where I live, or Patagonia with stunning landscapes. Also, I wish you the best of luck regarding your health.

[@testing1-2three]

Also, if you don’t mind me saying-only buying from free return places is a rule/boundary I have for myself that helps me immensely. For example, Nordstrom’s free returns anytime. I don’t remove tags unless I use it and if I don’t use the item, i figure I’d rather get something else that I will use or just for a refund. This is what has helped me build my wardrobe when I didn’t know what worked for me since I didn’t even know my size or what was flattering. No biggie. We’re all learning.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes!! Although having to do any returns isn't ideal, (I've heard a lot of returned merch doesn't actually get resold and is sometimes trashed...) it does save those "mistakes" from sitting around our house. Thank you!

[@redrover2370]

Unfortunately I’ve seen evidence online that many places that have free returns to encourage more purchases just throw away or otherwise do not resell returned items

[@alcnwonderlnd]

It was difficult for me to realize how much of a crutch retail therapy is. I like to believe I'm not a shallow person 😂 but I do enjoy buying nice things. Right now, my problem has been with Bath and Body Works sales! I am really enjoying the body mists for some aromatherapy and the fall fragrancs make me happy (even if momentarily), but I do regret the purchases. I don't need any more scents, and I told myself no more perfumes. So my "loophole" has been body mists. It's really reaching, and I just have to laugh for thinking I'm fooling myself 😅 with this loophole, hopefully this is my last lesson regarding fragrances..

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Sometimes we can always find a loophole, so I feel you! One of the things I realized about sprays/scents is that at least for me, they take a LONG time to use up...so it makes me want to consider more carefully whether I bring in another one and if I want to have all the unfinished ones sitting around. Maybe it's another area where getting the smallest size is actually the more conscious choice than the "best value" size, like so many other beauty products

[@slena]

two of my favourite productivity books were ironically anti productivity ! or at least critical of the concept of productivity as its being sold these days, so i highly recommend how to do nothing by jenny odell and bullshit jobs by david graeber. also i got them from the library ! that was huge for me in reducing my spending and impulse purchases. i think some libraries even have sheet music !!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you for these recommendations - adding those to my library list! 😄

[@xiovandijk933]

I love your vocabulary, so eloquent 😇

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Aw thank you!

[@judahltd2062]

The last thing I regret buying was a pair of teva knockoffs that a backpacker recommended in a video. She said she bought a pair of tevas but didn't like them as much. I have a pair of tevas, and didn't understand the big deal about them. So I bought the alternatives she suggested, thinking it would unlock some secret I was missing since my friends rave about tevas. I was bamboozled. The knockoffs were... Knockoffs. The quality was poor and sole was uneven. It was made of cheap material that made my feet hot. So now they are my camping ground shoes. A pair I could have have waited to buy next year.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Oh no! I guess it just goes to show, not everyone is going to like what's popular (...even if it seems like EVERYONE likes something!)

[@ShannoWhamo]

I have started a kind of soft no buy, partly inspired by you and partly inspired by moving and needing to spend less money but my rules haven't been very clearly laid out so some random stuff has slipped in. Such as an eye liner that I did not need, but vaguely desired before the No Buy began and then went to the only story that sells it that I don't go to very often, so rationalized that as not a No Buy violation...and guess what? It is fine but completely non-essential and was not the very cool addition to my makeup drawer that I thought it would be!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

This story has happened to me so many times even before "no buy" - it's why I own more makeup than I use in the first place!

[@Freakforphotos]

2 months into a low buy year, and a recent purchase regret was a special hanger for multiple skirts. . . I just needed to pass along a few skirts that i don't enjoy wearing, not buy more storage solutions.

[@rachelalacey]

Oh my woooooord! I fell for this, too. It was so clunky to use. I ended up just hanging my special bras on it that I don’t daily wear, because I used my skirts way more often and couldn’t be bothered with the hanger.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes I feel the same about a lot of my wardrobe right now - I refuse to buy "organization solutions" because the goal is letting go of some excess first!!

[@kaisa1476]

The last regret was a pair of earrings I bought while on a holiday in Morocco. I thought I should buy some Morocco-specific jewelry since I was there, but there were too many nice options which were too similar to actually catch my eye, and finally I picked one pair almost at random. I've never worn them. Luckily they weren't expensive. I also regret most clothes I buy online because they rarely live up to my expectations. Of course I return some, but not all of them, either because I think I can make them work, or because having them shipped around twice feels wasteful.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Well at least perhaps they're a memory of Morocco? I know some people don't like to keep things for the memories but 🤷‍♀️

[@MIOLAZARUS]

I would use that phone prison for cookies 😂

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I do think that's also a good option 😄

[@mwedzi]

I wouldn’t try to turn anyone off of their no buy, but purchasing as part of a good faith effort to solve a technical problem doesn’t feel wrong to me. Yes, you can live with headaches because of the wrong clip, but trying to find something to lessen that is a very reasonable purchase. For books, is there a reason you buy rather than borrow from the library? The other day I was listening to an Econ/business podcast the other day on NPR about CEOs using the term “newness” in their earnings calls, talking about ways to lure consumers back to spend money, particularly Target. The discussion made me think of your video about impulses we have to resist. The last thing I bought that I regret was, of course, a purse 😂

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Haha solution to hair headaches - got a haircut! 🤣 obviously a temporary solution because I do actually prefer longer hair and it'll grow back. I usually DO use the library! The books I purchase are usually books that my local library either doesn't have or sometimes there's more than 6 months waiting list for, if it's a really popular title (and even then sometimes I will just wait) OR books I really feel like I want to own a copy of and revisit or lend out to friends. Some of the "new productivity" books, my local library only has audiobook versions of at the moment and I don't always like that format. And you probably know I have more purses than one person needs haha so I can't exactly fault you there! It's crazy now to think about how marketing and trying to get people to spend money is an actual goal for companies 🤯

[@slena]

do you have a link to the podcast? sounds interesting !

[@Maripose24550]

Don't deprive yourself of books, just grab them from the local library 😊. Love your channel

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes! Love the library, some of these particular titles were only available from my local library on audiobook at the time I purchased though 😅

[@peanutbutterprincess]

August is my first intentional no-buy. I just bought a garlic press despite not having used one for years. In my defense, I've been cooking a LOT more and have actually needed it. I also bought a new canning rack. I still find myself compulsively shopping - adding things to online carts that I then abandon. Cha going seasons without purchasing some new clothes is always pretty difficult for me, as well.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

A garlic press is one of the few "single purpose" kitchen tools that I do own!! 😄

[@LargoWinch-th4gm]

Dear, dont worry, relapse is an integral part of addiction treatment. Im in big temptation to buy the same bullshits, but im strong 😅, i wont relaps 😂❤

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

You can be strong! 🙌

[@cindyklempner7203]

A very entertaining video. Loved it!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Thank you!

[@onyasonja1]

My shopping regret is 2 pairs of tailored wide leg pants that I bought on a shopping frenzy late at night. These pants never suit me but these looked so good in the photos and I thought I could finally look like one of the young cool girls who wear them with cropped tops (spoiler, I didn’t). When they finally arrived I’d completely forgotten about them and if it tells you anything about how unlikely I am to wear these, I didn’t open the package for 3 weeks. By the time I finally tried them and, low and behold, they were not for me, I quickly went on the website to check the return policy and of course they were not eligible for return because I’d waited too long. Now I’m stuck with them or need to declutter somehow

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Oh no! I have also made late-night shopping mistakes so I feel you there. It's crazy, I'm only now just starting to realize that "cool" might be more of a feeling than a look, and that when we have achieved the feeling inside for ourselves, that's when we will also look "cool"... even if we are wearing something totally different than whatever is trending/in our faces online.

[@rz308]

Looking forward to the style series! Is it coming out next week?

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes! Next week, with a style video everyday 😄

[@rachelalacey]

My recent purchase regret is the Tineco vacuum mop combo thing. I was sold on the idea that it would shorten my sweeping and mopping experience as it does both at the same time. I have a lot of hard floors and very little carpet. Surprise, surprise, it takes longer! Well sort of. Yes, I can vacuum and surface level mop my entire house in less than 15 minutes, but then it takes me 20-30 minutes to get the vacuum clean enough that the robot hiding inside its base will stop yelling at me to “clean the dirty water tank.” So that takes longer than a 15 minute vacuum session + 5-10 minutes running around with a swiffer. And I still have to “real mop” from time to time because the Tineco doesn’t, it just soaks up liquid and polishes away light dust. Sigh. That’s a $350 lesson to make do with what I have next time. And the truth is, I have the time for the real mopping scenario. I am just lazy and hate doing it. There was no reason to spend the money. None. At all. Sigh. Sigh. Sighhhhh.

[@rachelalacey]

I forgot to mention that the worst part is my husband knows how much it cost and thought it was a silly idea. Now I have to use it so he doesn’t poke fun at me for the rest of my life. Ahhh the woes of a privileged life! (Please note the last sentence is me poking fun at myself for being ridiculous and not genuinely bragging about being privileged!)

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I FEEL THIS and definitely have gone through extremely similar scenarios where my husband also might have warned me against buying something and then he turned out to be "right", but I will valiantly try to "love" (or at least use) the thing to avoid the jokes AND having to admit that I should have listened... I also appreciate this de-influencing on fancier cleaning supplies, what an easy trap to fall into.

[@gobolosszabojulianna]

My latest regret: I had to replace my canvas shoe (which is amust-have item in my wardrobe, because I have to dress in a way that is approriatein the 20 celsius degree office and on the 35 degree playground in the afternoon with my kids). I found a "new with tag" item on Vinted, it was a brand that I remember having like 10 years ago and I had the impression that it is a great brand. Then the shoe arrived, and the show was very wide. My size is 42, so it might happen that this white canvas shoe is a male model but circulated in Vinted as a female one, I am not sure. Anyway, I started using it, once I have it, but it is not a very comfortable one, and after a week of usage it shows signs of wear. My learning: I have to face that on Vinted my gem:regret ratio is around 1:5. Which is very sad, when I think about how much money I have wasted on shipping. Now I have started a no-buy-rest-of-the-year, so at least this will prevent me from further Vinted disappointments.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Oh no! Sorry the shoes didn't work out, sometimes it's so hard to tell online especially with shoes, where fit is super important. I also relate to the feeling of "no buy" being the best way to prevent "mistake" purchases 😅

[@amykatrina7542]

I have the same problem with Vinted! The wins are great but definitely outnumbered by the pieces that don't fit, aren't as described, have faults etc, which is such a shame.

[@leahaf808]

I bought a popcorn maker and a bunch of those different shake on seasonings after seeing a ‘10 healthy snacks’ video. At the time I was trying to make some healthy changes to my diet. Somehow it didn’t occur to me that, outside of the cinema, I never ever choose to buy popcorn for a snack. It’s messy and the kernels stick in my teeth. I’ve had it for 4 years and maybe used it 4 times.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Maybe it's time to try again at becoming a popcorn person? 😅

[@Ninzip]

If you think you're stupid (you are not!), hear me out. I am on a no buy August and I slipped three times already, without me even realizing! I went on three different day trips, and each time I bought something in a local thrift store (didn't break the bank, as each time the amount was around 1 euro). For some reason I realised only yesterday that I did this?! I was so proud of my no buy streak, turns out I haven't got one 😂 oh well, at least I didn't buy anything online!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Hey, you caught it now though! This is probably just a part of the process for you! Local thrifting might not have been a part of your "no buy" considerations initially, and after all, everyone's no buy will be by one's own rules. You can always try again with more "strict rules" or you can clarify that "no buy" means nothing online or at full-retail stores, and still enjoy some success this month 😄 I appreciate the solidarity!

[@grreeeeee]

My no. 1 problem with no buys is that I forget I am doing them. Have tried three times now.

[@TheTopNote]

Waiting with great anticipation of the spoof videos 😊 You are actually doing really well, I hope you know that. But keep the videos coming! I love this stuff!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Haha for full transparency the "spoof series" is scheduled for the end of October - leaving extra time to film/edit those since they'll probably require a lot more "b-roll" etc. than I normally have! 😆

[@lamochilademary1969]

on my no buy year I bought a turtle neck sweater that was half poliester and I knew it would make me suffer of heat. One of my rules is no polyester yet I gave in. It was not even on sale and I did not need it. I sitll have it but I never wear it.

[@MIOLAZARUS]

You are beautiful inside out❤ I so enjoy your insights. It’s such a nice place to hang out on KZbin 😊

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Aw thank you so much!

[@redrover2370]

A recent purchase I regret is some vintage style pants. I decided to pull the trigger after having them on my wish list for a while as I do need replacement work pants, but they are slighting too big and the colour is off :(

[@lillianbarker4292]

That vest will come to life with just one red accessory-red high top sneakers, little red bandana, or some earrings. So now you might have to buy more to make it work. 😂

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I actually have some red shoes! So no buying necessary 😄

[@Hechete]

Most recent purchase I regretted was a book. I went into Barnes & Noble INTENDING to get several, but I suckered myself into a pretty hardcover that I'm unlikely to actually read. And for full-price too. Ugh. Mostly it's nickel-and-dime stops at the grocery and hardware stores because I forgot something on the list or need 'just the one thing' for a project. I hate those stops.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Books got me recently too - as I'll share in today's video 🫣

[@cynthiahunter6588]

I love the madras top. I would have bought it. It's a day by day not to buy. Also, I return things a lot

[@rhosymedra6628]

last thing I bought that I regret...probably Loop ear plugs? I think I just got the wrong ones (engage), and I should have gotten the ones that block more sound. Or maybe they're all just not so good. I was really hoping they would cut down on sensory overload when I'm out places and so far they haven't done much good.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I have actually heard that the Loop ear plugs are not great! Sorry to hear that they also did not work out for you - it's actually on my long-term "to do list" to go get professionally-fitted earplugs.

[@hundhundkatt]

I was so hoping you would have thrown that vest over your shirt!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ah, what a missed opportunity! 😄

[@AlexHider]

For me, when it comes to clothes, my regrets are almost exclusively due to me imagining this clothing to be something it’s not. Actual fit issues aside, I keep forgetting I don’t look like the mannequin it was shown on…. Should have seen it coming every time tbh.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes, hard relate! Next week is "style week" over here and I talk about how I was influenced by channels that aren't even remotely my body type before (like petite style for instance, when I'm closer to 6ft tall) - what was I thinking? 😆

[@reno5964]

I decided not to buy ant food item that we had not already tried and liked. I have a tendency to buy new things to try. My husband and kids are very picky and often don't like them. They don't get wasted, my parents aren't picky and I give them whatever we don't like. My husband likes breakfast burritos. I bought a pack of pre-made breakfast burritos for him (pack of 8). He did not like them. I passed the remaining to my parents. But I regretted buying them because I said no new products and it was a fail!

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Sometimes it takes a "reminder" to get back to the original idea of deciding not to do something! Food and consumables can be so tempting since they'll get used up, I'm trying not to fall into that trap again too.

[@saramm3765]

The joke is my middle name is really “Regrets” because anytime I buy anything I wish I hadn’t.

[@SimplyKatieWalks]

Kinda off topic: I dont regret this purchase one bit... i got a ticket to a concert at the orpheum! Of course, i thought of you! Experiences over stuff🎉

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ooh! I hope you enjoy! And also I'll do a community post soon about seeing the symphony for any of my "local" viewers so watch out, if you're interested 😉

[@lillianbarker4292]

I really try to buy things I can return if they don’t work, not only for the money but because they hang around and become clutter.

[@bthomson]

I was hungry for sweets and my car was in the shop so I went on Amazon and bought a huge bag of vanilla salt water taffy! Mistake! I got really sick of them and still ( this was about a year ago) find the thought sickening! 😨

[@bthomson]

Sorry all I could think of. I dont buy much😇

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Ooh I wonder how long that took to get through - those things always sound so good until you get halfway through a big bag (or until they start to go stale sitting in the cupboard)...😄

[@Daniel_Ho_Status_101]

Low Buy would have been a better term than No Buy. We could have pointed out that paying your phone bill equals failure.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Haha indeed - from what I've seen, the "setup" of a "no buy challenge" does typically have a list of "allowed purchases" that include bills, groceries, sometimes replacements, sometimes very specific occasions (like my list starting this year included a Halloween costume, and possibly an ipad/related things for my job)...some people also "no buy" things like takeout food or coffee, and services like haircuts - but I never really had problems with that kind of stuff so I didn't "limit" those. But realistically it is a low buy, you're right! Either I'll use this term next year or I'll possibly do shorter periods of HARD NO BUY next year if my skills improve 😂

[@moot3052]

Have you thought about getting an undercut to reduce the volume of your hair?

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I have, but I'm apprehensive about the maintenance (not sure what it'd be like as it grew out, especially if I wanted to tie my hair up and it would then be visible?) - I only get a haircut once every couple of years currently, and at least for now I'm trying not to have to go in for more hair appointments - maybe in the future!

[@emo333vampire]

Could you not look at the viola pieces while your phone is in jail? Won’t this free up some time? 🧐

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Yes in theory! In practice, most of my "phone time" is listening to youtube videos (handsfree), and playing the viola requires use of my hands so I can't do this while doing housework/meal prep/other home tasks 😅 But I will try to apply this nonetheless!

[@janecraftswhen...8115]

How about you donate a good bag or clothing item for each of those no buy infringements? Would paying a penalty make the lesson stick harder?

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

Oh! This reminds me that I did used to have a U-pin! And hey if it can work for a drummer it's gotta be ok for a violist... I'll think about this for the future, in the meantime I've actually had a haircut and now I don't think the pins would work as well since there's less hair to wrap - temporary solution! Good luck no-buying! Would love to hear updates 😊

[@belkyhernandez8281]

I think you are being too hard on yourself. If a tool helps you then using it is a smart decision so I don't see why you should beat yourself up for that. Regarding the music, so you aren't going to play it now. It's not milk. It doesn't have an expiration date. You can play it later. Regarding trying new food, how is this a flaw? How are you going to know you aren't going to like something ahead of time? Is your expectation that you are going to stick to the same foods permanently? We may not need 10 purses but I think dedicating a small portion of your food budget to try something healthy is in a different category.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

It's not milk! Thank you 😊

[@lillianbarker4292]

I have to face the fact that if I shop, I will buy.

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I've actually discovered that I can now "shop" without buying...but I do still think it's better not to use my time that way

[@HappyLife-nf7wb]

Seriously no buy is soooo hardddddd I keep buying clothes....... Sigh

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

You can do it! It did help me to go through and "declutter/reorganize" ALL of my clothes...and really do the whole "take EVERYTHING out" and go through the task of putting it all away, it kind of turned me off of wanting to add more to deal with in that category 😅

[@DrTsuiEdu]

best thing for headache for me: a plait

[@y.preyer]

The west looks like the teapot heater coat at my granny’s 😅

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I'm all about that granny chic! 😆

[@yalazha]

Honestly it’s a vibe!

[@y.preyer]

Does it mean, that any purchase can be a mass or hit? It doesn’t depend on time or amount of wish/thoughts you put into it, when it simply can’t be integrated your life. Practical approach is better than theoretical?

[@Alexas.nobuyyear]

I think you are onto something here!!

[@y.preyer]

@@Alexas.nobuyyear it is definitely my topic, because I’m fir rational spending on things that I need and love. Stop hoarding unnecessary garbage and littering the planet! 🌍

[@rayeof_light]

I wouldn't have found your channel if you didn't "fail" your no-buy. There is something beautiful about "failing" and talking about it because it's perhaps the most relatable experience being a fellow imperfect human. 🤍