The Unhauled Year | Stationary Overconsumption Journey

[@reneev8481]

I resonate with this so much . I really hope you film some of the decluttering process . I keep telling myself “use what you have “ or “ you have everything you need” because I do. I think admitting that you overspend and recognizing is the first step. You got this ! Thanks for sharing and being so honest, it’s refreshing!

[@elenamplans]

I am actually planning to film some of it!! Not every part of it, but do it more 'vlog' style as I go through and sort things out and put things away. I don't know the cadence of updates on this, but there will definitely be some.

[@judyblock5084]

Elena, I just discovered your channel and I just subscribed and liked the great videos you produce. This video helps us to not go after every new trend, but to do what resonates with us, while being financially responsible instead of reactive to each new video. Thank you for your courage, honesty and integrity you model to all of us who get on the merry go round of more, different, searching and buying. you are helping us help ourselves. Your online fitness coaching has expanded to fiscal and emotional fitness. I also appreciate your planning process. Thank you. Thank you, Elena

[@elenamplans]

Thank you so much for your kind words! Glad you got subscribed so you can see the evolution of this journey (the good, bad, and in between lol!)

[@ayanarandolph5778]

I’m glad more of these videos are surfacing. It’s refreshing to hear, especially during this time of the year where everyone tends to go a little crazy over stationery. Those videos where people hauls tons of planners and journals and don’t have purposes for them trigger me too lol 😂 I’m just like why did you buy all of them?!?! lol but I have been decluttering for years and when you talked about decision fatigue and color palettes, you were speaking my language. It saves so much mental space and money. You can focus on what you truly want and buy the quality you deserve. I wish you luck on your journey.

[@elenamplans]

I feel you! But also, that’s why I wanted to highlight how it’s more than JUST about the stationary… but I know this is mainly a stationary page so I know others would resonate and maybe feel seen with this conversation. And the color palette thing was life changing - I will never go back.

[@nikkibrown6020]

Thank you for making this video and being transparent. I think we all should help each other in this way. So many of us are going through the same stationary issues, I am so over it! I was moving along just fine before I discovered the planner community. Now I don't even remember how I used to plan. I will be on this journey with you. 😊

[@elenamplans]

I’m glad that this resonated with you!!! And yeah I feel like the “I was fine before I got into it” makes a lot of sense 😂 I think it’s SO easy to get caught up in things, and get FOMO, and it’s like… No.

[@nankhanna]

FOMO’s a b*tch. I am so guilty of this and then impulse buying.

[@elenamplans]

And what sucks is it that it’s totally something we do to ourselves but it’s so hard to avoid

[@goodpocky2]

I feel like my stationery supplies has grown so much this year it stresses me out to just see it, use it, manage it, and try to organize it. It’s so insane.

[@elenamplans]

I totally agree! The overwhelm is real

[@theoryof.lauren]

totally agree with you!! Im definitely in the mindset now where I am aware of how much I have and that I want to use that rather than buy more that will remain unused!

[@elenamplans]

Right? And here’s a thing, if I run out of some thing I’m going to replace it. But I really want to focus on using what I have first. Like if I run out of coffee stickers, you know I’m not gonna be missing out I’m buying some more coffee stickers.😅 but I’ll use my current stash first lol

[@nankhanna]

Wow! So glad I came here. I ordered my Cousin Avec with the Tragen cover and was going to order more because of all the haul videos I was watching. Not doing that anymore. I have everything I need and will not order anymore. Thanks for posting this video. Looking forward to how you are going to set this up and implement. I hit the subscribe button.

[@elenamplans]

Ooh that sounds amazing! And welcome to the community, glad to have you here :)

[@HappymakingwithJen]

Your talk really touched me and challenged me to put aside my FOMO regarding planners and to use what I have. I have a list of a few things to purchase before the end of the year; so that I can begin the new year haul-free.

[@elenamplans]

You can do it! I think it’s also 100% ok to get things to prep for the new year or even a new quarter - but I think it’s ok also to be honest with ourselves about what is truly too much 😂 it’s a personal journey for everyone for sure

[@DvorahDavida5778]

One thing that I have experienced these last few days is using up the ink in three different pens. All the ink. I threw them away because they were in a state of completion. I also finished out two rolls of washi tape. I was not prepared for how satisfying this was! The point being, that I can see this being a kind of goal for me in 2025. Using up all the stickers in a stickerbook, filling out a journal to the last page, etc. Not buying anything new for the year could open the door to a true refresh of supplies in 2026. Something to look forward to! 2025 could be a year of completion. Use it up! Sounds exciting to me!

[@elenamplans]

Oooh, the year of completion - this does honestly sound SO satisfying!!!

[@debbieannrodriguez2181]

I have a tracker for the stationery I used for the year. Hehe. Just makes it fun to be on team use. Like how many washi rolls, stickers and sticky notes I've used up, notebooks and pens I've finished etc. 😊

[@elenamplans]

@@debbieannrodriguez2181 that’s honestly brilliant

[@moniques.journal.corner]

All of this Elena!! I look forward to monthly updates. My biggest spending is definitely stationery. I'm canceling subs and patreons because I just have too much. I'm collecting more than I can use so I'm looking forward to this. Thanks for sharing.

[@elenamplans]

I'm glad you feel like this resonated, and hopefully some of my journey can help you make more intentional decisions with your own :) I feel you on 'having more than you can use' - I can't wait to go through and actually SEE what's in my stash... because frankly, I don't remember everything I have LMAO.

[@MrsG93]

I actually did this .. this year...I did my capsule wardrobe , cut my spending in my fountain pens and TN covers.... and clothes.. next year is cutting fast food will reach out to you about health

[@elenamplans]

Oh I love this!! Capsule wardrobe is the way to go tbh. That’s eventually where I want to land, but it’s a process.

[@greengirlva]

I have attempted this many times and failed many times, but I am going to plan to do it again and stick to it. Perhaps now that I am being treated for ADHD. I will have more tools to fall back on. I will say that I really enjoyed watching Hannah Louise Posten’s videos during her no spend, she loved buying clothes and make up and was very thoughtful and how she went about it. Your videos are so thoughtful, too! 🎉

[@elenamplans]

I think it's normal to 'try and fail' in a lot of things - each time we learn what does and doesn't work for us. It's the same with my nutrition clients, too 😅 Every time we try something, even if it's the 3rd or 4th time, we peel back another layer. I think too, with your ADHD treatment, you'll start to find more and more success as you find what works for you!!

[@tuxedoplanstoday]

I am dealing with grief and depression and it has been tough for me to get this under control. This video was certianly helpful.

[@elenamplans]

@@tuxedoplanstoday Oooooh I feel you. I recently lost my dad after he struggled with Alzheimer's, and I don't think it's a TOTAL coincidence my stationary spending specifically went a little haywire during that journey. We're coming up on the 1 year anniversary of his passing, and as I'm processing my grief I'm just trying to be extra mindful of the 'coping' strategies I'm using... and more planners and accessories isn't it. I'm sorry you're struggling as well ❤‍🩹

[@tuxedoplanstoday]

@@elenamplans today is my moms birthday Its been 3 yrs since she went. But its just not any different from the day she was gone. I am giving my best effort to curtail myself. Thats all I can do. Thanks for replying.

[@elenamplans]

I'm so sorry you're struggling extra today - I now know that feeling all too well 🥺

[@JanisOnTheFarmette]

Have to admit that your title “Project 2025” had me in a whirl because I’ve been bingeing on planner videos as a respite from bingeing on political content. This seemed like a weird and unexpected convergence! I love your message about reducing overconsumption, hyper-fixation, and clutter. TFS.

[@elenamplans]

Haha that makes sense! Well, maybe it was a happy accident you saw this video too 😅 And thank you, I'm glad the message resonated!

[@hellocarlosxd]

@@JanisOnTheFarmette I had the exact same experience and reaction. Taking a break and looking for my 2025 planner, then was taken back by the title.

[@CathyPlans]

The title made me feel some kind of way

[@elenamplans]

@CathyPlans I just changed it, based on some people graciously offering feedback 🖤

[@JanetWiles-by3vd]

I think you are 100% correct - I’ve been feeling the need to stop purchasing planners and sticker books (my downfall) and markers and highlighters as well. I have more than I’ll ever use!! Is it my imagination, but is this year even crazier in the planner world than last year?? And yes, FOMO gets us every time, but realistically, who sees our journals or planners anyway??? I am also a fountain pen collector (I have 65 pens) and bottles of ink (32 bottles) but again, WHY??? I always end up with my favorites anyway. Fortunately, I haven’t purchased a fountain pen since 2021 and don’t miss them at all, though I write daily with my pens and inks. All this to say, you are on the right track for sure. We have been blessed with SO MUCH and we often don’t seem to be thankful or even mindful of what we have and what MANY other people don’t have!! Keep up the good thoughts.

[@elenamplans]

I honestly feel like it’s just as crazy every year, I think that it just hits people in different ways. I know that the influx of new shops and smaller shops offering more sizes and layouts is a huge blessing, but people definitely go overboard. And like I said, I’m not immune, but I think it’s important to understand where we are creating the drama ourselves, but it’s easier to engage with it than it is to distance

[@delilahpatton2635]

I feel this completely! I decided I'm going to do a low spend for my planner supplies and stationary items for next year. I'm going to be using what I have first and making sure it's completely gone before I buy anything else.

[@elenamplans]

Love this!! Shopping your stash is a good way to go 💪🏼

[@colleen5236]

Amen sister! I have been thinking and needing to change my spending mindset! Glad have this virtual accountability- I will be on the journey with you ❤

[@elenamplans]

Yay welcome!! I think going through and reflection on the 'exceptions' - realistically - because I feel like a full 'hard stop' is tough. But even if it's just starting off by setting some boundaries with yourself, and tracking trends - it's a worthwhile journey to go on :)

[@Autumnichi]

Hi! I did a sort of different angle video. For me experimentation is vital and that requires a looser approach(not necessarily knowing what each planner/journal is for). Freedom is vital to creativity & working out what I enjoy. Healing wounds from parents who told us we can’t have or guilt around using supplies if we don’t have the perfect or ‘right’ reasons or skills. Anxiety around finding the ‘perfect’ planner because otherwise we’re bad people for having more than we need. BUT, boundaries are important too! If, IF, we are feeling overwhelmed, hurting our wallets, hoarding, struggling with FOMO, in any way reducing our joy, then mindfully looking at the what & why behind our spending is likely essential. FOMO is endemic in the creative community. Joy & contentment are the key words as you mentioned. 😊 Dehaul, mindful spending, OR guilt-free buying & maximalism as long as there is joy & contentment! 🙌🏼💛

[@elenamplans]

Such a great take on it!! Thank you for sharing 🫶🏻

[@jenniferlarsonjaylaplans]

Subscribed 👍🏻 I jumped into the deep end of the planner community in 2015, buying ALL the things for several years. I definitely regret it as I feel like I have too many supplies to ever use them all and my planner style has also changed so much since then. I am very interested to see how your year progresses! I still buy a yearly planner (just one) but nothing else and haven’t for many years now. I am trying to use up as many of my supplies as I can so this video really resonates with me

[@elenamplans]

Thanks for subbing! It’s so interesting to hear other’s experiences too - I recorded a little “organizational” vid today that will go up soon so that will be fun 😂

[@greengirlva]

I am trying to get to where you are-I have all the planners: bujo notebooks, discs, rings, spiral, bound, etc-too much! I now know that I love rings and Tomoe River Paper. I like a bound bound for keeping/reference and rings for tracking. That said I am using a disc planner and a dot grid for next year 🫠

[@jenniferlarsonjaylaplans]

@@greengirlva same! I have so many planners (TNs of all sizes and inserts, RINGS, BUJO, discs, spiral). One thing that really helped me was staying off Instagram and unsubscribing to all the emails, if I don’t see the things I don’t have FOMO

[@greengirlva]

@@jenniferlarsonjaylaplans That makes a lot of sense. I should probably also stop watching KZbin videos for systems I do not use! May the force of reason be with us!

[@devongambrell]

I def need to get my closet and craft supplies under control 😅. This was a wonderful video, thanks for sharing!

[@elenamplans]

You can do it! I’m starting a little this AM 😅

[@melso3]

Love this so much!! I had the same goals for this year. I started out strong but … 😢 I’m definitely more aware of my spending though. I have way more than what I need as well. It could literally last me for YEARS. ❤. 👏🏻👏🏻Being Intentional 👏🏻👏🏻

[@elenamplans]

I think it’s not about pulling a ‘hard stop’ it’s about deciding HOW you’ll use what you have, and then deciding when and where you’d buy more if you need it. I definitely made a purchase today, but it was something I had PLANNED to purchase and it didn’t stress me out. Which is good. But, it’s the constant ‘need to get this to make the system work’ vibes that I realllly want to avoid because I KNOW what I have is enough. And it will work if I make it work. 😂

[@eve794]

Enjoyed this! Thank you for sharing! My most impactful takeaway is: "Where are we willing to say no to ourselves in order to say yes to a higher level of existence that we want for ourselves."

[@elenamplans]

Honestly, I’m a little impressed with myself at that line too. 😂

[@tortagialla]

Really love this idea and the very specific things you have outlined... I definitely think it's always a good idea to be more intentional about everything in our lives... I like that idea of logging all the things wanted and prices and see how it might change over time. I'm not great at logging anything, but i feel like it would be so good to have that kind of data! Best of luck on your journey!!!

[@elenamplans]

Thank you! Yeah I am testing out keeping a 'log' of the 'things I wanted to but didn't buy' in my Apple Notes (since that's already part of my regular systems) is gonna work out well - I already started a small list in there for this month 😅

[@Elizkleincaz]

Woah. There were so many great one liners in this video! I need to watch again and take notes. I've been feeling lately like I need to do a strict no-spend, both to reach some financial goals, but also because I am working on decluttering my house and do not want to bring new things in right now. I find myself wondering why the hell I bought all this stuff in the first place and how I could've used that money to reach more important goals instead. Anyway, you've inspired me to be stricter with my no-spend going forward.

[@elenamplans]

Ooh yes the one liners! I did drop a few mainly because I actually outlined this video so it’s good to know it was worth it 😂 and yes, I also wonder “how did this all get here” like… why. Smh. 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@rachellouiseheal]

yessss i love this so much, i was meant to start a major life declutter this year, unfortunately it was derailed by a serious car accident, juggling 2 jobs and completing my honours thesis. so my main goal for 20205 is to do this i am keen for the journey!

[@elenamplans]

I think it's a good goal to set, especially if you feel like your bandwidth for it is starting to increase :)

[@stareenafraser]

Ooo I like this idea, only on the first part of the video excited to see your journey, I feel I want to do a no spend as well, will make some notes :)

[@elenamplans]

I'm glad you are excited to follow along! I am gonna be scheduling the next declutter video here soon.

[@stareenafraser]

@elenamplans woot :) [I need to do that too ]

[@TransientStationery]

I am here for this!!

[@elenamplans]

Lol welcome, enjoy the ride!!

[@treehugger2718]

I am reviewing the bullet journal system you described and am testing it in my A5 disc bound - avoiding the "new notebook" - so far I can see my mind works better being able to move those "collections" around - my adhd would not like a fixed book if I have a bunch of scratched out pages . So glad I found your bullet journal system cuz I write down so much too even tho I think the sterling ink is so pretty .

[@elenamplans]

I’m so glad it was helpful! You can totally use bullet journal basics in a rings planner - the method in itself is SO flexible!

[@treehugger2718]

Tried to abbreviate my comment / but I relistened to your video so many times and tested a few things it makes sense - I just don't know if I need a day on two pages with an a5 disc but then again if I "practice " this layout I could see how it works

[@treehugger2718]

Love the sterling ink and TRP . I have a personal size rings binder as my wallet and errands book - but will continue playing around in a5 /

[@elenamplans]

I love her books too - the TRP in the sterling ink and planner monkey co books are my top two for SURE.

[@BrittanyLinger]

i need to do this. i have too much craft items, and just spend too much money on things i dont need in general. ive already pretty much stopped buying craft items but i need to buckle down on the other items like food/snacks/drinks that i do not need. i dont need a pop or a candy bar every time i go to the store lol i dont need a lot of the things i spend my money on. i am still able to save a lot of money each month, because i "pay myself" first but from what is left, it gets spent on nothing wise and would be much better in my savings account as well. my goal is to retire early and having as much money as i can for saving/investing is what im trying to do. plus stopping bringing items into my house that i dont even have room for. i think my new thing will be if i buy something, i have to get rid of something of its type so it can have a place to go. thanks for this video. i love the "unhauled" year idea.

[@elenamplans]

I think so much of it is also rooted in knowing where we give ourselves TOO much permission. Saying no, or even developing a bit of discipline in some areas, is SUCH an underrated form of self care and self love.

[@sujeyplans7720]

Excited for you! This will be life changing!

[@elenamplans]

Thank you! I am excited to see how it shifts my mindset on my planner consumption and just… consumption overall. I can’t wait to post updates!

[@morganstokes5351]

I so appreciate this video! Thank you for sharing!

[@elenamplans]

You are so welcome! Hopefully you’ll be here for the updates 🙏

[@teacherlovesbeauty]

I'm excited to follow your journey!

[@elenamplans]

Yay! Thank you! 🙏

[@MaryChrapliwy]

I'm guilty of way overspending on planners and craft supplies - I think it needs to stop. I may follow along on this

[@elenamplans]

I would love to have you along for the journey! I recorded the first organization video today going through what I currently have and putting things away. That should be up sometime in the next few weeks.

[@ilanabennett0369]

I. LOVE. THIS. ❤

[@elenamplans]

Hahaha thank you! I'm excited to share updates as I test a few things out for the remainder of 2024, and see how it evolves in 2025 :) We're not expecting perfection... just, progress. And being brutally honest with myself, as a form of self care and self love.

[@stephaniephelps9483]

Love your ideas!

[@elenamplans]

Glad you like them! Hope you stick around for the updates 🫶🏻🖤

[@lucypauwels993]

Don't forget about your public library if and when you do have an itch to buy books.

[@elenamplans]

Very true! I do love the library :) I use KU quite a bit too, as I read... a lot. LIke, 250 books a year 😅 So that in and of itself saves me a ton on the book spending.

[@CorrineVictoria]

love this!

[@elenamplans]

Thank you so much! Hopefully you'll stick around for the updates and journey :)

[@Dhf822]

Oh please can I join this no stationary fomo support group….

[@elenamplans]

Haha I’m honestly wondering if I should make a ga broadcast channel on IG or a Facebook group 😂

[@alicem1111]

❤❤❤

[@elenamplans]

Thanks for being here!!

[@Cinnamorollin980]

the title scared me so bad LMAO

[@elenamplans]

HAHA I’m so sorry 😂 I didn’t even realize it made people think about other things so I’m contemplating updating it lol

[@elenamplans]

I just changed it, based on some people graciously offering feedback 🖤

[@hellocarlosxd]

This is not the best title for this kind of video. 😅😅😅

[@sierrag248]

Yes! I hope she sees your comment.

[@hellocarlosxd]

@@sierrag248 me too cause it might affect her views 😬😬

[@elenamplans]

Hey! So this is actually my most viewed video... ever. But if you have feedback on the title, some specificity would be welcome so I can understand the context of your comment :)

[@hellocarlosxd]

@@elenamplans there’s a ton of chaos in the political atmosphere right now around the phrase “project 2025.” There are those who do not wish to be associated with it in any way and others who do. I am not trying to bring politics into your peaceful and beautiful video about journaling. The title may confuse those who may be searching for more information or opinions surrounding “project 2025” in politics. Hope this helps! I am trying to be as honest as I can without accidentally offending anyone or their views.

[@elenamplans]

@@hellocarlosxd oooh shit. This totally makes sense! I’m working on an update for this 💪🏼