SHOULD YOU DO A NO-BUY IN 2022? MY EXPERIENCE AND ADVICE FT. A LONG AND INVOLVED GARDENING METAPHOR

[@faeriesmak]

I almost burst into tears when you talked about being taught that we are not enough or correct and mentioned being different, especially not being neurotypical. I just found out that I have autism at age 46. My whole life has a "why" that I have to unravel now. Thanks for being incredibly inclusive. You’re the best.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

sending love to you my dear faeriesmak

[@kagitsune]

Welcome to the Autism family 😊💖💖 We have cookies for special diets and elegant stim tools for you 🍪💝🌈

[@faeriesmak]

@@kagitsune Nice..and thank you!

[@watchmethriving]

I was finally diagnosed as Autistic at the age of 42, I get those feelings you're having!

[@faeriesmak]

@@watchmethriving Thanks. Yea..it's a lot at times..and then totally not at other times. It's been interesting, that's for sure!

[@KatieStAmand]

This felt like a therapy session. I have recognized that I’m constantly looking outside of myself to “feel better” and have a better life. Excessive spending on beauty products is just one of the many ways it has manifested. I deeply appreciate your videos - your thoughtful insights always resonate.

[@danyf.1442]

Don't know if my self control is strong enough to complete a no buy year, but since I started following Hannah I am definitely more mindful of what products I buy and which brands I support. I don't impulse buy anymore and manage to buy stuff I really want and know I will enjoy. I am immensely grateful for this channel!

[@zusamy20]

Same!

[@cjevans6365]

Me too. 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@angeladesilva7913]

Oh

[@lifeisterrible]

Watching your videos at the end of 2020 inspired me to do an a no buy in 2021 and I’m weeks away from completing it. Thank you!

[@HannahLouisePoston]

YAAAAY congratulations!!!

[@lifeisterrible]

@@HannahLouisePoston thank you!

[@Mel-pb5xw]

Way to go!! Congratulations!!!🎉 Wishing you all the best in 2022♥️

[@lifeisterrible]

@@Mel-pb5xw Thank you! If I can do it anyone can! Feels great!

[@mmlee2213]

I know that some people probably don't, but I love that you talk about how the compulsive shopping or the want to want something is almost inherently tied to the society we live in. leaving that out is only half of the conversation, arguably the more important part to recognize and internalize before anything can be done

[@thefoxyscentury]

Agreed!

[@KristinPaigeM]

I have a book recommendation for anyone interested in learning more on what Hannah was discussing toward the beginning, that in the systems built around us, it is by design that we are made to feel inadequate and to buy more in response. I would highly recommend reading Consumed by Aja Barber. Full title Consumed: The Need for Collective Change: Colonialism, Climate Change, and Consumerism.

[@Laquia]

Omg I'm going to check this out! Thank you!

[@mayannemanzano-guerzon2551]

Thank you!!

[@cherylashworth1124]

Yes! This is on my list.

[@magalysoro-fernandez4052]

I requested that at my library a while ago but I’m still waiting 😞

[@Mel-pb5xw]

Thanks so much for the rec! Adding it to the top tier of my “to read” list right now🙂

[@lorijones9579]

I did a no buy year in 2020. I was home all the time, didn't wear makeup, and mostly wore flannel jammies. I didn't buy makeup, skin care, hair care, or clothing. Even when out for groceries, it was pointless to wear lipstick under a mask. I savagely decluttered, down to the products I loved most. In 2021, I bought a few things but not much. There is no good reason to buy anything until I've used what I have, all good things, but it will expire long before I can use it up.

[@auroraborealis13579]

I just tried to use a Marc Jacobs eyeliner that I was “saving to use for a special occasion” and realized it dried up. And, now, it’s literal trash. The same day I used a favorite Nars lipstick only to realize it has that old lipstick smell. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Both almost full products. I just have too much.

[@natashataylor8262]

Literally in this exact process right now

[@Kat1967]

Wow, this was eye opening...my husband actually pointed out that I have a serious problem....of course I denied it (knowing he was 100% correct). I am going to attempt this in 2022. I am frustrated every morning because I have so much makeup I cant decide what to put on....I constantly search for the skin care and foundation that will make my skin flawless...it goes on and on...I totally relate to cycle of constantly needing to want the next thing...I never finish products because there are just too many. I watch you tubers and get sucked into buying a bunch of stuff I dont need and am nickel and diming away our money we need to save. Thank you for giving me the mirror to really see what is happening in my head. I long for a limited collection of only the things I truly love... I need to do a major declutter. I struggle with ADD and my whole life is overwhelmed with stuff and clutter....I cant think anymore...I have hope I can change. I want to change. Thank you.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

it's hard to take a break from shopping but if you can commit, it will TRULY give you that space and peace that you are craving. Sending a hug

[@sjch1994]

You're not alone - you can do it

[@em6644]

It’s nearly the end of 2022 so I hope your no buy year has gone well!! If it didn’t or if you didn’t do it there’s no need to feel bad, I hope this comment can remind you of the idea instead :)

[@Kat1967]

@@em6644 I failed miserably. Will try again....a new year is just around the bend. Ugh.

[@StevenForditude]

I believe this might be the single most important video I have ever watched. I needed to hear this message, and now I must know and understand and feel this message. Thank you for all the work you are doing for yourself, and in turn the stories you share with all of us. I do believe it is through the telling and hearing of stories and in the formation of communities that we heal at our core. So thank you again and forever for this beautiful video.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

thank you so much, Steven

[@TheLunarFire]

I'm happy to see you've finally gotten to 50k subscribers. You've worked so hard and really stuck to your values the last couple years I've been watching your videos

[@laureness1898]

Oh man all of the reasons you stated as to why you should do a no buy year really hit home for me. I attempted to do a no buy this year and failed epically 😩 I wasn’t dedicated to it enough and because I’m more financially stable than I’ve ever been shopping has definitely become recreational. I have plenty of money saved but it makes me a little sick to think about how much more I would’ve saved if I didn’t buy as much as I did. Definitely doing a no buy in 2022 and I’ll definitely be watching through your whole playlist💖 so much love for you Hannah and everything you’ve said in this video is so true !!

[@sylviemariehebert9758]

@Lauren I tried to do a no-buy year in 2020 and failed epically too. I am now finishing the one I did in 2021. It's been a great journey. I know you can do it!

[@WhereTheLocalsRoam]

You can do it!!

[@texirie]

I am probably old enough to be your teenage mum…and I spent a ton of money on the same things. I didn’t buy anything other than two lipsticks and mascara only for 10 years. In the past three I’ve purchased a ton-and have no debt-key is knowing who you are, admitting you can love something and don’t have to have it. It’s hard to look hard at yourself. Much love to you hon-we are works in progress.

[@MIOLAZARUS]

You made me cry this time. I just completed my no buy year this November. You have helped me so much. Thank you Hannah.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

yay Mio!! You did it!

[@whitevine9544]

Congrats MIO! That's awesome!

[@MIOLAZARUS]

@@HannahLouisePoston Thank you, love ❤🎄

[@MIOLAZARUS]

@@whitevine9544 thank you 🤩❤

[@whitevine9544]

@@MIOLAZARUS you're welcome

[@MoonlitSunflower]

This is relatable. For me the difference is that I'm not trying to fix my life with beautiful things. I am just drowning out the negative feelings with more pleasurable feelings. I'm better than I was 3 years ago when you were in the thick of your no buy year, but I still find myself doing that.

[@PaleOpal21]

Same here.

[@ashleyeverlasting5384]

I completely agree. It's like how some people drink to drown out emotions. I shop. I shop online for hours and may not make a purchase but I spend an extraordinary amount of time browsing online an in store.

[@S_H9260]

I stress shop. I used to drink. I used to be obsessive over my diet and weight. I have collected various toys, brands, etc. The hunt for a particular item and then finding it was satisfying. Sometimes it's just about consuming as much as I can. It's the finding and getting that I crave. I don't even use most of what I've gotten. And it's not as good having it as it was finding it.

[@MoonlitSunflower]

@@S_H9260 When I'm allowing myself to purchase makeup in an unhealthy way I think it is very similar to bulimia. I don't know if others play out the pattern of eating disorders in their life but I've noticed very similar behavior. Binge and buy everything you want until you're satisfied and then purge (declutter) the reminder away.

[@S_H9260]

@@MoonlitSunflower that is very relatable.

[@animefreak4444]

If you are even remotely thinking you could benefit from doing a no-buy, do it! I'm almost done with my year-long no-buy project and it's been sooo helpful for getting past using retail therapy as a coping mechanism for stress/unhappiness.

[@orchid51551]

Congratulations! I did mine in year 2019. I feel like I could benefit from doing another one next year.

[@SaplingTarot]

I'm very excited for when you eventually write a book on this topic, the way you are able to balance the deeper, more existential elements with fun and accessible metaphors brings me so much joy, and above all how you manage to discuss such topics without judgement or blame, thank you for all the immensely thoughtful content you make.

[@cherylashworth1124]

Yes!

[@katies4521]

I am doing a type of no buy in 2022. Background: I started therapy for my ptsd in April 2020 and going through the trauma has been re-traumatizing. I wish I had fully healthy coping mechanisms but I’m still practicing those. One unhealthy coping mechanism is retail shopping, but pretty exclusively makeup. I’ve taken a hard look at what helps emotionally and what doesn’t and I’ve gotten it down to eyeshadow palettes, highlighters, and lip products make me SO happy. I’ll be really down and put on a lipstick or highlighter and I immediately feel lighter and like I can handle things for a little bit, so I’ve decided to make a budget for those 3 categories and only replace other products like foundations, eyeliner, mascara, and even blush and bronzer. So I’m in a no buy (just replacing) for all categories besides those 3 while I’m still going through therapy so that I’m gentle with myself. Someday I’ll probably need to just need to be in an actual no buy or very low buy, but at least it’s budgeted in so I don’t go into debt

[@thrivingandbeyond3541]

If I could just make a suggestion for those who are looking to 'target' more specifically, Hannah's videos on "How My No Buy Changed My ....." are particularly good with thorough explanations of things like 'cost per use', 'sense of value', etc. All vids are worth watching, but for those of you who might need a quick boost of information relative to real change gained and a new balance of cost (not always monetary), those specific vids might be a great place to start. :)

[@alevsahin1428]

You inspired me to do a no buy in 2022! I saw your collection and how thoughtful you are with everything you own and use! Hope it'll be successful to everyone that wants to do one ❤️

[@arieljj5040]

I live for hearing you say unapologetically that we live in a patriarchal white supremacist capitalist society, on a primarily beauty-focused channel. Really appreciate your framing about how our impulse to buy things and the need to feel “enough” is shaped and perpetuated by the dominant culture. I totally identify with a lot of what you said, thank you.

[@sarahjane9512]

Yes, I need a no buy year ... I will try very hard. This channel has opened my eyes to have much money I waste on pretty eye palettes and blush. I don’t use them, I just look at them. I have enough make-up to last years....

[@lievoli]

The garden metaphor has reached me on a different level. I am a creative person who is overflowing with ideas and bright colors inside. I would love to create, write, draw, sew and so so much more. But I'm afraid that my art is not good enough, or that I will turn it into something that no longer comes from my heart - for money and acceptance. I would love to have a creative business and put more love into what is already important to me. Gaming is also a way of hiding my failure, I like to play the old Harvest Moon games, although I would rather be physically in nature. Beside that, I did a low buy year inspired by you in 2021. I feel like I've taken many steps on my way through this, but there are so many more steps to be taken. Thank you for encouraging me, dear Hannah! It means a lot.

[@cherylashworth1124]

As a fellow creative who struggles with comparison, I hear you. Sending good maker vibes to you!

[@lievoli]

@@cherylashworth1124 Thank you so so much for your kind words! That means a lot to me♥️seeing that comment made my day. Sending you that vibes right back, so that both of us can make 2022 a year full of creativity and happiness🤗

[@zitapuskas2772]

For me, a complete no-buy was too daunting at the beginning of the year so I did a low-buy. I've tried to really focus on enjoying the things I own and recreating makeup looks without buying anything new. For me, it was a form of training myself to be more creative and resourceful. Also when I'd got the inclination for buying something new I've always asked myself, could I dupe that thing with something from my collection. A lot of the times the answer was yes. :) What I am currently struggling with is the skill of being self-aware and knowing the difference when I would like to buy something because of the wrong reasons (just because I saw the product on social media etc.) or it would really take my makeup skills to a new level (for example a great brush set). So now I am in the process of that. :) Thank you for making the video!

[@mairino7799]

I had a similar experience having parents who aren’t into feminine things. It took me a while to come around to being ok with liking things like pink, sparkly things, and dresses. It also meant that I consumed a lot of things I wouldn’t have otherwise consume, as I had to figure out on my own things like how to deal with my hair

[@lauraplitt3840]

I had the same situation plus the added bonus of a mom who was naturally drop dead gorgeous without makeup, and wore her naturally gorgeous hair completely natural 100% of the time. She completely discounted the use of makeup or maintenance of hair as “unnecessary” because of this, and never gave me or my sister any kind of feminine training. In fact she actively took the position that we were silly for asking for help or advice!! I had to teach myself how to pluck my eyebrows, blow dry my hair, apply lipstick, etc.

[@missysmakeup]

This video is so so good. Hannah, you are a gem. I love when you talked about the girl and the garden and the garden video game. I feel like makeup and shopping for makeup for me has been a comfort that helped me muscle through the pandemic and the uneasy feelings stemming from that, and the weight I gained during the pandemic that makes me feel ashamed and awful every time I think about it. I do all the things-avoid the scale because it hurts to see, wearing makeup to cover up the fact I feel uncomfortable in my skin, avoiding counting calories or tracking what I eat in a day because the truth of it makes me feel awful and instead of addressing it I keep shopping and keep focusing on my makeup and neglecting the rest of me. I see this all for what it is now and I am going to fully attack this head on this year. You’re seriously the best!! Love you so much 💛💛💛

[@Kat1967]

I feel the exact same way...the pandemic took a toll on my weight as well...working on loosing that....its a process for sure. Good luck to you Missy.

[@missysmakeup]

@@Kat1967 Thank you, it really is! It’s so tough. I have always struggled with my weight, I’ve actually lost the same 50 pounds twice and gained it all back (I lost 50 for my wedding, maintained it for two years until I got pregnant when I gained 70 pounds, lost it all again after he was born and then the pandemic happened and I gained 50 back again since) and it is so depressing and even harder to do now. I want 2022 to be different. I lost all control over the last two years and I am tired of feeling like a prisoner in my own body. Mad love to you, and wishing you all the best and good luck in your weight loss journey as well!!!

[@myconfusedmerriment]

Don’t be too hard on yourself; I think we’ve all got through the pandemic by using at least one big distraction lol. My weight was a point of contention for me too, but I’m getting back to a better diet and trying not to beat myself up too much, because a cycle of shame never helps me get out of it. My mantra has been “do something that your future self will thank you for,” whether that’s saving money or meal prepping or whatever. I find that mindset makes it easier for me to make positive changes.

[@stephbryan]

Hi Hannah! This message of self-love and anti-consumerism (especially at this time of year) is so heartwarming ❤️ Life really should be about loving ourselves and our family and friends and less about a wild desire for more stuff. Loved the video game/gardening metaphor! Love you so much ♥️♥️♥️

[@amandajollylines]

BLARG, Hannah. I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that your channel's my favorite. Like, yes, I love your overhead vids. Yes, I love your uber reviews. But I live for these ruminations on Things and what Things really mean and what we do with the Things as well as ourselves. I'm someone with solid disposable income, and I'm someone who hasn't really had dicey spending habits, but I'm someone who craves beauty and perfection and control, and when something feels sideways in any of those categories, I KNOW I turn to Things as a way of reasserting "balance" in my mind. I guess what I'm saying is, content like this on your channel is also a balance reassertion. A deep breath in and out. Just thanks for making and thinking all that you do.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

[@7ADGr8]

This is like the mirror I was avoiding to look at soooo many times that I am in tears now!! But what if you are too scared of taking such a decision and not following through with it?? The idea of an entire year with no buy seams scary for some reason! 😥 may be I’ll break it to 6 months and check how I feel about it

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I TOTALLY support a 6-month no-buy. I actually feel like 6 months was the length of time it took for me to fundamentally change. I'm glad I followed through with the whole year, because the second half of the year brought a lot of the inner work that I referenced here. But if a year is too daunting, start with 6 months!

[@7ADGr8]

@@HannahLouisePoston Thank you Hannah, I truly appreciate the support and you taking the time to do these videos providing such an important source to help all of us who love beautiful things in life (may be love too much sometimes) 🥰 Thank you 😊

[@pocketvision24]

I've been spending all my time caring for my aging sick rabbit this month, and I have spent so much money both on her vet bills and impulse purchases I thought would help me feel better. Targeted advertising on social media feels so predatory when you're in a vulnerable place, and now I feel like I need to do both a no-buy and no-social media year! I loved the garden metaphor.

[@FairyBogFather]

you hit the nail on the head here. as someone that lives on the intersection of many marginalized, demonized, and oppressed identities, I absolutely feel the urge to buy buy buy in order to "correct" myself or "improve" myself or distract people from who I really am.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

[@daphne-bai]

Thank you so much for breaking down the subliminal messaging we get that spurs us to over-consume! I love your gardening metaphor too, especially since that’s exactly what’s been happening to me with ADHD. I’m so envious of people who have their life together and so frantic to reach that level myself, but my ADHD means I’m constantly scraping the bowl for dopamine, so I’ve come to equate spending money on nice things with actually fixing my life, which it obviously is not. I’m a bit ashamed but grateful that I went through the same problem as well a year ago, over-buying with no grasp of how much I was amassing and how little I could actually afford. At the end of that cycle I wrote up all my recreational expenses with mounting guilt at how few of those purchases I actually ended up valuing and how many makeup products were going to expire before I could finish them. I’m glad to say my spending habits have improved a bit, though I’ll still have to challenge myself to buy less in 2022.

[@shedefiesreality]

This was such a beautiful message. It’s really encouraging to see someone on this platform, as an influencer, actively fighting against the myths capitalism has taught us. It comforts me every time you’re reviewing a product and express that even though you love it, that doesn’t mean everyone needs it. It gives me hope that it’s possible to walk through this world without always falling into the hole that is consumerism. And on top of that, I felt this message hit home. I don’t try to fix myself with purchasing things (well, not always haha!) but there are many ways I feel incomplete and fundamentally flawed. All this to say, thank you for making this video and sharing thud message, Hannah. It’s a gift

[@isheeka2465]

After following your no-buy journey, I toyed with the idea of doing one but it was only in April of this year that I finally started it after realising that just trying to moderate my behaviour wasn't working. It has been tough. It's not that it's been tough not to shop; rather it's been tough to do the work of tending to my garden and seeing the consequences of years of neglect. But it is changing my life and I'm so grateful to myself for doing it. Thank you for inspiring me and for all the helpful and compassionate content, Hannah :)

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I'm so happy for you!

[@katrinadessavre5293]

Just got the best HLP pep talk that I didn’t know I needed today 🥺

[@cherylashworth1124]

Right?!

[@kathleenm.5086]

There's not enough critical thinkers like you in this beauty KZbin space. It's always a breath of fresh air. Wishing you relaxation and happiness during the holidays, Hannah!

[@herohm66]

I love the honesty that you're sharing here. Everything you shared about your 2018 experience is resonating so closely to what I'm recognizing in myself now. Even though the recognition happened in me during the holiday shopping season (I'm a mom of three so there are going to be reasonable expenses), I have already saved much more than the other 3/4 of this year. Two things that helped me a lot has been 1. Unfollowing beauty influencers and brands on Instagram and 2. Replacing my "random scrolling" cycles with reading books or writing. It has been rewarding on so many levels!

[@Cindyy721]

I remember watching ur video about this and at the time i didn't feel ready to do a no-buy year but what i did was try to cut down the amount i spent on "unnecessary" things. That helped a lot but i now feel like i am really ready for a no-buy year! Specially with everything going on around the world and with money being a lot more tight because of the situation we all are inn. I actually just decided to sit down now and make my self a budget! The first video you made on this definitely inspired me to start this journey :) I am crossing my fingers that everything gets a lot better for everyone next year!

[@useroarecare]

This channel is so refreshing! Finally someone who doesn’t push you to buy stuff

[@beckc.d.1813]

I REALLY relate to the “wanting to want” state. I appreciate how well you’re able to articulate this.

[@victoriaryan1509]

I'm 52 and have recently been diagnosed with ADHD and am impulsive and reckless with my spending, (usually on beauty & skincare) and since finding your channel I've decided on a no buy year. I became homeless 4 years ago & had to move back with my mother and during this summer I got rid of all the possessions I had in storage so I now know I can manage with much less than I thought. However, I don't have room for much either anymore so I've been eating more in order to spend! Hopefully I'll be able to get some therapy this year, and if I just spend my money on that I'll be happy!

[@heatherwalsh7036]

Perfect timing! I was just considering trying a no buy year. You inspired me to give it a try. I have plenty of makeup and want to make good use of what I have before it expires. I hope I can stay strong! 🙏

[@user-ud5gv5cj9p]

This is awesome! I feel like it applies to many different addictions and I appreciate your authenticity and willingness to share your experience. Bless you

[@TheStitchWitchPodcast]

I cant believe 2018 happened so many years ago! I feel like that was still such a recent happening.. .what is time??

[@HannahLouisePoston]

strong agree

[@auroraborealis13579]

I’m having a come to Jesus moment. I’ve been scared to watch the original “Should You Do A No Buy”, and, as I got into this one, I know why. I really ought to. The list of reasons you gave for why you did yours was….a punch in the gut of Truth (for me). ………I am so glad I found your channel when I did. Thanks for being open about your journey. It’s going to help a lot of folks out! ❤️❤️❤️ Also, you ARE a cool girl! At least we all think so! 😝

[@liftbakelove]

I know this isn't the point of the video (and thank you for making it - I'm embarking on a 2022 no-buy as the owner of a beauty blog and am so excited to have you as a role model and inspiration!) but I really would love a tutorial on this eye look - it's so pretty and perfect!

[@evas4455]

I would really appreciate some content around the ‘tough’ aspect of doing a no buy. I think I had been under the impression that you had found it relatively easy - that you’re an all or nothing sort of a person - and that once you’ve made a commitment you stick to it. Whereas I tend to feel like I am constantly starting and failing no buys. I think there’s relatively little content on KZbin around failed no buys, or the struggle aspect - for obvious reasons really - one can only imagine the comments section!

[@rosabellavitaalvarez-calde5836]

I found the video after her original no-buy and she mentioned how she had almost a panic attack, when she realised she could not rely on expensive stuff to compensate for many frustrations and the life she did not have. In the end she describes how eventually she felt free of the desire to be more wealthy than what she was, and be content with what she had

[@bwendy2]

This was an amazing video! You explored so many important topics surrounding consumerism, self worth, awareness, and many more. I have done many "no buy years" mostly due to low finances but especially when I had kids. I was so focused on my babies that wearing make-up and shopping faded into the background. Now they're teens and I'm back to enjoying make-up and clothes again and have to watch out for the desperation that starts to creep in...this was incredibly brave and honest. So relatable! Great job!

[@sylviemariehebert9758]

Thanks Hannah this was an awesome video and it allowed me to reflect a little bit on my own no buy year of 2021 that is coming to an end. I've decided to continue in 2022, and to makeup I'm adding clothing. My goal is to curated my wardrobe the same way I curated my makeup. There is only so much space in one's mind palace after all.

[@blazearcanum]

My motivation for a No Buy would be the “buy a personality” issue. I want to purchase less and focus on exploring the items that I already own and develop a more curated personal style. I tend to go on a spree once a season binging items for a new look that I feel will define my style… then ultimately feeling uncomfortable or too shy. Instead of spending time shopping or browsing looks on social I want to catalog the things I already own in an app like the scene from Clueless so that I can visualize and shop my own closet. I’m looking at this project as the gateway to a full no buy so that I can organize and clean out my collection 😱

[@arielts06]

Do you know of an app like that? Please share!

[@embellishmarin4647]

I know you are working so hard this month, and I want to thank you for it. Your kind, calming voice is so soothing in this bustling and sometimes stressful time of the year. You are helping me get ready for a no buy year. I get that sick desperate feeling, and it’s truly awful. I’m surrounded by things I felt I needed to acquire and I find that I ultimately do not need or use. Much is being collected to give away or donate. Thank you for being a guide out of the dark on this longest night of the year. Here’s to a brighter, lighter, healthier 2022.

[@beatricet7396]

I don't know if this will make sense for anybody else but here is a little thing I like to remind myself: my boyfriend is my joy, my friends and family are my joy, my cats are my joy, my studies are my joy, my things (the ones I already own) are my joy, my knitting is my joy. Shopping is a pleasure and it's a fun thing I do but it isn't my joy. I can't spend more time in a day thinking about pleasure and neglecting my joy.

[@krisg3568]

Thank you for this video. I feel like you describing the garden allegory really spoke to me on a deeper level. I've spent so much money on things in the past 2 years, dipping into my savings and investments that I am deeply ashamed of myself for not being able to control myself and waste money like this.. Your videos have made me more aware and have inspired me to do a no buy, I really need that. Thank you for making this content.

[@appel_sin]

When I have to quit shopping due to my financial state, in a week or 2 I always come across a hobby that also requires financial investment (what a coincidence). All of hobbies. Sewing, interior design, carpentry, gardening. The only hobby “free of charge” I can imagine is probably studying or some other intellectual activity, so years after I really stick to taking free online courses if shopping doesn’t work for me at the time. But I sometimes miss a visible or touchable result like a repainted furniture or good makeup (no problem with that though, there’s plenty of makeup stuff I have) or diy sth((

[@catherinetran5903]

This literally might be my favorite video you've ever made.

[@HannahLouisePoston]

[@ondigottesman979]

I am doing a no-buy year, for sure. I’ve already spent the past year putting away a LOT of money and I want to keep up that momentum. My goal is to have roughly 80-100K saved by the end of next year. Tough, but doable. Not spending frivolously is step number one.

[@Olivina330]

No, no you are the coolest of the girls in every sense! ❤️

[@auroraborealis13579]

Right?!

[@MiriLikesYoutubing]

Love the gardening/video game metaphor

[@karolinaf7811]

Probably your best and most meaningful video ever….and I’ve seen all of them! You sound like a legit psychiatrist now. I hope this video goes viral. Such an in depth evaluation on effect of consumerism and marketing on the human psyche. Bravo! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Eva-wr9by]

Your comparaison with the passion for gardening, the real garden and the videogame is so powerful. It remained in my mind and, today, when i wanted to buy a dress, i remembered it, and stopped. I knew that i wanted to want it, being used to scroll on internet in search of something exciting. And then, i looked back at my garden( my wardrobe) full o beautiful flowers( clothes) and i started to match them and prepare my outware for the whole week. And i felt so proud i resisted the urge to shop and i realised what i already had. Can't thank enough to the writer inside you who described in words what i really felt!

[@pixiethistle]

Brilliant content as usual, Hannah! I'm probably going to be on a low-buy or no-buy forevermore to keep my spending under control. Though now I realize that I get the same thrill/high when I declutter and reduce my possessions as I do when I buy beautiful things, so these impulses seem to stem from the same source or need to try to control my behavior and environment. I'm just as obsessive about minimizing, but at least it's a more financially healthy activity. Happy Holidays to you, Sadie, & Joe!

[@meganjohnson2246]

I need to try a no-buy 6 months. "So accustomed to the simulation"-- YES. Thank you for this, Hannah.

[@lynngifford849]

By "tending to your garden," you are helping so many of us! There are not enough words to say, "Thank you" for your vulnerability and insight. Plus, a shout out to your therapist. You found a good one.

[@Olivina330]

I am so grateful for you putting out all of these amazing videos as I twiddle my thumbs alone at work! ❤️

[@SarahTitus0403]

I’m finishing the last few days of a three month no buy and I want to thank you so much for your videos. You are always a voice of wisdom and thoughtfulness-thank you so much for your work

[@svobodnayasvoboda]

Your no buy year completely changed my way of spending money. It changed my life, and I will always be thankful for you sharing about your experience sins the beginning❤

[@sanahasnain8031]

Thank you Hannah 🙏🏼 I really appreciate your insightful videos ❤️ it has helped me decide that I need to do a no-buy for nail products. I am a licensed nail tech, however I don’t have any clients at the moment because I recently moved, but over the months I have continued to buy nail products as if I am running a busy Nail Salon. I see that buying products makes me feel like I am actually practicing my trade, which I am not and things have gotten out of hand because now I buried in stuff that I “need”. I feel panicked at the thought of “what if I run of it medium grit nail files” … meanwhile I have currently have zero clients. Obviously there is a disconnect somewhere. But I have decided now is the time. And again thank you for this video because it really helped me put things in perspective. Much love and light to you and your family ❤️

[@Mkmissy]

Already planned on a low/no buy before the video, so I was definitely going to watch this for any guidance!

[@Yolli.Maceda]

Thank you so much for this video... You have no idea how much I needed to hear this and I am so happy there is someone that really cares and understand what many of us are going through. I am doing my no buy year on 2022. I have so much makeup, it is overwhelming and I can't even think what to use. I really appreciate your time and effort for making this videos !!!! 💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@atlaswinter8134]

Thank you so much Hannah. I often find myself outspoken on issues of capitalism and such, but not as often have I gotten a straight reminder than I don't need anything more to be enough. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video.

[@sarahburnell653]

I’ve just found your channel after having decided I need to do a no buy year. I started to work out how much I’d spent on clothes/shoes/homeware etc over last year and gave up counting after I reached a hideous amount of money! The fact I couldn’t even bare to finish counting was the answer I needed to whether a no buy year was necessary 🤦🏻‍♀️ You speak so much sense and I’m mesmerised watching your videos. You’re a beaut x

[@missysmakeup]

Omg I love this video idea!!! I was just telling my husband how I am doing a no buy for 2022 in makeup. I don’t need to no buy anything else because it’s just makeup I have a problem with lol but yes I am taking a page from your thoroughly well-written book and doing this!!

[@jasmynyvonne562]

I’m also doing a no buy this year

[@missysmakeup]

@@jasmynyvonne562 Cheers to you!!

[@bethong910]

I’m also doing a no buy for 2022! Only makeup too and simply because I apparently have no self control when it comes to eyeshadow.

[@IsabellaBoyne]

I was just about to go to sleep to get an early night since I'm sick with COVID but when an HLP video appears... Have to watch it! Thank you for making some of my favourite videos on the platform ❤️

[@IsabellaBoyne]

This was a beautiful video, especially the part about deficiency and wholeness - loved it!

[@orchid51551]

Hope you feel better soon!

[@cjevans6365]

I hope you’re better soon ❤️‍🩹

[@HannahLouisePoston]

I hope you heal quickly, Isabella!

[@IsabellaBoyne]

You are all so sweet thank you 🥺❤️

[@LCx829]

I remember find your channel during your no buy year. I might have to watch again so I can start a very low buy. Your hair looks amazing.

[@loweylisa]

This was great. I could totally relate to everything you were saying in the beginning not looking at your bank statement etc. I’m starting a no buy for make-up in 2022. Putting it here in writing so I stick to it. Thank you for this!!

[@melissakessler77]

I recently stopped coloring my hair and have joined several curly silver-type groups. Seeing all of these amazing women embracing their natural beauty and supporting each other has been such a wake up call to the insidious side of the beauty industry. I do love makeup and hair products, and bags, and shoes, etc…but I know that I don’t *need them to have value as a person. You have inspired me to do a no buy year - I know that I have more makeup and skincare than I need, and I think it will be a good break from conspicuous consumption. Thank you for sharing your insight and your experiences ♥️🙏🏼💋

[@phuongle6670]

Whoa this opened my eyes. Towards the end of 2022 i was extremely stressed and was spending money i didnt have on things i didnt need. I will seriously consider incorporating some amount of no-buy time into this year! On another note, your analogy where the digital garden is thriving - irl garden dying is perfect. I’ve been living in denial/magical thinking all this time, and this video has cracked something in me to let the light shine through. Thank you so much for your amazing work ❤

[@NorthStar3922]

Holy wow - that video game garden reference was the best explanation I’ve ever heard! I’ve realized a few things about myself lately and it is amazing even in a beautiful, supportive, loving environment how conditioned we are from outside sources. I tentatively started my 2022 no buy this month just to work on the rules - see what I forgot - see what comes up in a normal day to day routine, etc. and so far it’s been very difficult, but it’s been working. I’m already seeing a difference in my bank account which is unexpected especially w/ all the extras this time of year brings. I’m looking forward to officially starting next month and I know I will be going back to your playlist for inspiration throughout the year. 💕

[@johannaodenwald8777]

That’s it, I’m not buying any makeup, skincare or clothes #nobuy2022 - so excited 🙌

[@helenavioleta]

Hannah, so glad to come to this point of the year again with you, like a friend that is always there for you when you start to falter. I went through my second no-buy with you, during your no-buy. I find myself again, in different circunstances that lead me to seek a new no-buy period and am so so glad to have this advice from you. Happy 2022 :)

[@marutaalfacinha7042]

The video I have been waiting for! 😍 will be doing a no-buy year too in 2022.

[@megan3702]

Wow. I never knew that there was someone else out there who could understand exactly what I experience every single day. Thank you for this video. I’m going to do it.

[@kerlivs.makeup2503]

I love the gardening metaphor 🤓 I'm an excessive shopper myself and planning to be more cautious with my money 😬 by always keeping my end goal insight, to be able to quit my job (that I hate, but pays well) and get a less stressful one... I've come across that exercise, it may help someone else too! before every decision, ask yourself "what would the person that I'm trying to become do?"

[@rbishopmd]

I am so glad to have found your channel today. I have been contemplating a low.no buy for a while, but it feels overwhelming. you thoughts, story, and feeling towards shopping resonate with me. I am ready to write my rules, and confront my demons and my finances. I need to. I just need to write them down and figure when to start, so that I set myself up for success. I look forward to watching more of your videos, becoming part of a supportive community and changing my perspective. Thank you

[@kyleechristensen2217]

I feel like you are my therapist... You tackle issues that I face in such an eloquent manner and I appreciate you! 🧡

[@amandac_]

Thank you Hannah! This video was made for me and I really want to do a no buy year 2022 for self improvement and save money :)

[@christinaserna5776]

So I like your channel because makeup is perishable and I don't want a huge collection, but I like talking about it. I only have two eyes and two cheeks and I honestly don't have the energy to do my makeup more than once a day. Thanks for promoting the message that we don't need to be constantly buying things.

[@kat1701]

I started two weeks ago because I know if I start Jan 1 I would never complete a whole year. New Years resolutions just don’t work for me. the first week I struggled with temptations but two weeks in and I’m already working on myself internally because I’m realizing shopping will never fulfill my desire to love who I am. Shopping was just a toxic coping mechanism in my life.

[@susanmcintyre9934]

Wow! I just happened upon your video and what a fantastic video it was! I am old enough to be your mom, have two grown children and one still at home. I can remember times in my life where you could have been describing me. It’s refreshing to see someone your age with that kind of understanding and wisdom usually only found in people who have lived many, many decades. Your parents must be so proud of you. I hope your video helps a lot of young people struggling with substituting shopping for happiness.

[@mymagicemily]

I needed this. I resonate with so many of your reasons for your 2018 no buy year. I'm actually set to do a no buy, replacements only and no new products next year for myself and instead allocate a budget to a fragrance purchase each month since I've been more interested in learning about fragrances. I'm really excited about it actually, but I'm also very nervous because I'm the queen of "I'm already at the store let's go through the makeup aisles" impulse buy. And I get major beauty fomo. So I'm really looking forward to your next video on this!

[@hazelz.9785]

Yes I think I'm ready for a no buy year, I've been preparing my self doing months of no buy on and off in 2021 with the help of your chanel. I'm ready for a whole year of no buy, not because I have huge shopping problem I'm already out of that state but because I want to restructure where I WANT to spend my money on. Yes I love beautiful things but it's not only the makeup, jewelry or art deco are beautiful, nature is also beautiful, the art I create myself is beautiful too, and of course working on myself is also an extremely beautiful thing to do. I want to shift my desire for beauty from externally viewing, owning things to actively doing things.

[@jowiens32]

I found your channel from a comment on Allana Davison’s latest video talking about similar topics, and I’m so glad that person shared your name! I love your energy, channel, reviews and everything Ive watched in the last few days. Im so happy to have found your channel ❤

[@caitk6016]

I think it’s about time I did a no buy. I have been watching your channel for so long, and I finally feel like I need to do this for myself and my mental health. Thank you for opening my eyes Hannah.

[@ladyroulim]

I love your metaphor. I am not a gamer but can still relate to it a lot. Thank you for making this video, the messages are beautiful and so are you. I have never thought about it but recently, I realized I shop A LOT when I feel stressed. I don't even desire the stuff; I am just desperate to distract myself from "the actual gardening work"; I just enjoy numbing my mind for a while (or a long while) with endless scrolling on shopping websites. I am doing a no-buy quarter, until the end of this year. Thank you Hannah.

[@starbyheart]

I have been wanting to do a no buy. I have a big collection of beautiful things and I want to save. I want to be more mindful. I have beautiful things and want to appreciate all that I have without all of it getting clutter by other things. I think 2022 is the year I will be doing a no buy or a low buy (letting only repurchases happen). I think it is time and future me I know will appreciate it.

[@estellerose9900]

I have ADHD so very poor impulse control, esp with shopping. I'm so grateful for your channel and it's really helped me to stick to my budget + break some bad habits this past year. Eyeshadow in particular can be an aggressive temptation for me: I'm hoping to no-buy it for at least the first six months next year and find ways to focus on the beautiful things I already own :)

[@faeriesmak]

Same here except I have ASD.

[@whitevine9544]

Do you ever dupe the vibes in custom palettes or eye looks like Hannah does? If not I recommend doing so. I have so many eyeshadows that I can basically dupe whatever palette comes out. I'm not really a palette girl so much now, but I have some. I have mostly singles/depotted eyeshadows and that honestly has helped me a lot. I even have really figured out my preferences/esthetic with makeup, so I don't want to add anything that isn't in line with that. And go for the no-buy and if you need to turn it into a low buy then don't be ashamed. And if you fail, then keep working on getting better. I'm doing a strict low buy/budget. I know a no-buy isn't for me. I tried in 2019 and failed because of my deep desire to buy. I don't feel like I want to buy makeup as much in 2022. I rather put my spending money elsewhere. We here are growing and learning and Hannah has been a Godsend to us. She's a blessing with her all her content to help us be better and stronger than we have in the past.

[@Kat1967]

Me too. I totally relate.

[@tinadendy2588]

Hannah - I am so happy I found you today; it is as if the universe just knew your channel is THE ONE I need. I am proud to say I am a new subscriber with the bell notifications on with plans to binge watch your catalog of videos. The gardening metaphor is genius, and it resonates with me along with your many words of wisdom in this video. Thank YOU!!!

[@WhereTheLocalsRoam]

Thank you for so eloquently putting all of this into words! I did a no-buy year a few years ago, back when I doubled-down on paying off my student loans and medical bills. One year made it possible for me to be debt free, but a side effect was it also really transformed the way I think about purchases. I'm so much more conscious now of the things I buy, asking myself why I want them, do I need them, do I just want immediate gratification or will this stand the test of time. I think no-buy years come with some really wonderful and unexpected insights, and I still do weeks or months of them now when I catch myself slipping. I hope this video helps someone else who's considering taking the plunge!

[@rachaelbrecher7207]

Thank you so much for this video. You are so eloquent and everything that you said makes so much sense and I can tell comes from such a clear place. I tried to do a no buy year this year and made it about 6 months before I ended up going back to my old ways. I’d really like to try for the whole year again, 2022 might be it. Thank you again for your brutal honesty and insight. 🙏 ❤️

[@alysonchung9260]

Thank you for making this video, Hannah! I have decided to do a No Buy 2022 earlier this month. Your videos have been my biggest motivation and inspiration to do something like this. Thank you for being so open, vulnerable and walking us through the entire thought process of what you have felt. I definitely resonated with some of the things you spoke of, and I hope I can do this in the coming year!!

[@thatblondechick]

Hannah so much of what you said was so applicable to me. Insight like that is what I really love. Deep thinking about what does our “stuff” really define us as. I think I will definitely need to watch your video on how to do a no buy year. I have an overseas holiday planned so I may need to add a slight change to mine surrounding that but I’m excited. You’re so smart!!