SIMPLE LIVING | Things I No Longer Buy | ways to save money & simplify your life ✨

I am starting a new series all about simple living and in today's video share a personal list of 35 things I no longer buy, as well as some hacks I've been enjoying in my journey towards a more intentional, decluttered lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned minimalist or just starting to explore the benefits of living with less, these insights are designed to inspire and guide you on your own journey.
I invite you to join me and as always I hope you are encouraged, inspired, and motivated here 🤎
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Hey there! I'm Laura, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to my channel. Here, I dive into everything that makes a house a home-homemaking, motherhood, and unleashing creativity in every corner. Whether it's decluttering and organizing tips, DIY projects, yummy recipes, or sharing cozy homemaking routines, I'm all about keeping it real. No picture-perfect illusions here-just genuine inspiration and encouragement for life's everyday moments. So, join me on this journey as we find joy in the little things together! 🏠
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#simpleliving #minimalistlifestyle #lifesimplified #intentionalliving #minimalism

[@lauras.lifejoy]

If the topics of simple living & joyful homemaking + motherhood sound appealing to you, I would love for you to subscribe and join the journey 💛 Welcome here, friend!

[@Fegga1955]

No Soft drinks,no coffee out,I refill small water bottles,no renting movies,Watch free KZbin films,Netflix,have enough jewelry,no cards since I also make them,old tv works great since I hooked up hdmi cable to watch films,list is endless,Thanks so much ❤

[@HannahMaeLicup]

I love the idea of buying clothes intentionally. Been doing that myself too.😊

[@lynnctodd]

I don’t buy candles and I have greatly simplified my makeup and bath/body products. I used to have SOOO many because I love all that stuff. But, I realized I was overwhelmed and didn’t use half of it. Now, I *mostly* have things that I use every day or at least multiple times a week. It feels good to use it all! I also don’t buy books. I use my kindle and the Libby app. I never re-read books and don’t need them taking up space.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I recently decluttered some beauty products, there's only a few I use every day! I also get overwhelmed when I have things I don't use ~ thanks for sharing! 💛

[@lifeaccordingtocynthia5657]

I buy all my cards at dollar tree, they are very nice when I don't have time to make my own. I have discovered walks to our neighborhood sidewalk library boxes! I love taking some books I have read and trading them out for a new read. Plus they have several children's books most of the time, and my grandchildren love to walk with me and be surprised at what they find! The only shampoo I have used for years now is the baby organics shampoo and body wash. It is all natural and leaves my hair shiny. I actually get comments from other women asking me how I keep my hair so shiny and healthy looking.

[@carolephillips2915]

I think I might try the baby shampoo & body wash tfs😊

[@drbantayan]

We don’t have a tv in our home but one thing we do enjoy is an indoor projector 📽️. It replaces the need for a larger tv. Just blast the projector on a blank wall & enjoy the viewing experience. 😊

[@lauras.lifejoy]

and that is SO fun too!!

[@chriswells4400]

Wow! I am extremely impressed. As a 74 year old I am amazed at your maturity and ability to save money. I had an IPhone 7 also and my son and daughter-in-law made me get a new one!😂

[@AnnWarycka-ft2xw]

Have you tried Dollar Tree for cards, journals, office supplies, etc. Cards can be found for 2for $1. and are Hallmark cards. Everything else is $1.25.

[@hannahbloomlifestyle]

I am allll about simplifying this year

[@Vivcarbajal]

For me storage/organization bins. Makeup, Just face powder Hair products, just shampoo and conditioner Water bottles Extra cleaning products (Pinesol,dawn, vinegar and baking soda is enough) Subscriptions Small decor/Knick knacks/books Unnecessary kitchen gadgets Plastic plates/cups Mugs I’m trying to be a moderate minimalist.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

It's actually amazing what baking soda/vinegar can be used for!! Thanks for sharing - I like that: "moderate minimalist" I'd say I fall into the same category!

[@xxbabsbunnyxx8923]

Yes to the spring capsule wardrobe!

[@hannahcrawford4618]

Second this ❤

[@live.travel.]

Great tips! For myself, not saying you can’t go out once in a while, date nights and such, but overall this is what I try and do. I don’t wear makeup (never have), wear the clothes I have and when they can’t be worn they become cleaning rags, same with shoes, wear until they die. Learning to sew is a great skill, fix your clothes that aren’t doing so hot. Eat at home, drink water, entertainment at home (tv/movies, read a book, etc), no pets, do errands in the least amount of trips in a route that uses less gas, haircut once or twice a year (my hair’s long and has to be put up at work so easy to get away with) and not colouring/bleaching it, learning to cut hair is a huge money saver. And not getting rid of baby items until baby season is over for your family and only purchasing more/new when needed and depending on the item obviously.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

Thanks for sharing!! ☺I have considered learning how to cut my own hair as well - maybe one day!

[@Diane-nr3sf]

I've been cutting my own hair for years saved me a ton of money also I sew and knit and crochet and I've been trying to learn how to can except my pressure canner scares the heck out of me LOL but I will accomplish that two to

[@mohajerlewis]

Some of the comments here are very strange. I enjoyed your video. I took from this that I need to decide what’s really important to me and not what I’m told I’m supposed to buy or enjoy. I think we could all benefit from being a bit more mindful and not rushing out to buy the latest Stanley cup or Trader Joe’s mini tote etc

[@lauras.lifejoy]

Thanks, Maryam! I'm glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@dorothy9618]

Today I removed 5 pictures from my walls. Looks great!

[@Victoria-kl7su]

In the U.K we have charity shops which are like thrift shops but that give a large proportion of the takings to charities such as Cancer Research or animal rescue - I try to buy cards there as they are usually reasonable (less than equivalent of 3 dollars) and the profit goes to the charity, I also buy them in sales and keep a box for when I need them, just a few obvious or generic ones so that it’s not wasted money just sitting there

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I love that!

[@Cheif_Runs_with_scissors]

Wow..theres some strange comments on here..😂 people justifying why they have this' n ' that..Aint nobody asking anyone to do that..nor to do what she does.Shes sharing what works for HER. If this type of content doesnt align with your values- take what positives you can & move on 😊

[@speedbully_84]

I haven't spent money on most of these things for many years, if ever. With the exception of 2. Bread: Here you can by quality bread (high fiber, no sugar) for $2. Although homemade is better, no way I can make it so cheap. Soft drinks: addicted to the caffeine and haven't found a substitute I like. And should mention I have no kids. I have a low income for my country ($1750 after tax), with rent being $780 a month I still manage to save £500 a month. Still feel poor though with the cost of everything to day...

[@francarroll310]

I love the cell phone declutter! I won’t be getting any more mani/ pedi. A waste of $200! Can do it all myself. I began making soy candles with essential oils and use the glass Oiu yogurt jars. I do not shop anymore at Dollar Tree. Wasteful cheap. I buy 80% clothing at Savers as the quality is so much better. Too much stuff is distracting from values, praying, actually communicating with others.

[@lisamarielund6292]

I buy all my gift wrap, bows, ribbons and cards at Dollar Tree. Super cheap, festive, colorful and the cards are either $1.25 each or two for $1.25. Can’t beat that!

[@angelabellissimo3921]

$200 where do you live? I get a Pedi done like twice a year. Usually like 50 for basic Pedi. So probably only spend $100 before tipping a year.

[@danielleg1504]

Also….. YES… the biggest YES about a curated, good quality capsule. I am obsessed. It has made my life, as a mother, a million times better.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

Yes!! I’m working on this one ~ only buying things I actually love and are practical, feminine, but also good quality! It’s a process 🤍

[@emilydawson2667]

Hey Laura! When I’m about to buy a new book (in Canada) I check book outlet first! Massive discounts, all new books, puzzles, kids stuff. Has saved so much money! For example, I found the complete treasure of Peter Rabbit, hardcover, new for $10!

[@lauras.lifejoy]

That’s amazing!! I love Peter Rabbit books, what a score! 😍

[@hushingsilence]

I've never been to starbucks and never get coffee when i am out, and I have a $20 coffee pot. I never use plastic water bottles. I only buy large bottles for my emergency kit. I buy bread about once every 6 months. I've never been to a nail salon. Ever. No subscriptions when there is so much to learn on youtube. I never rent movies..... Never go out to eat, never go to the hair salon, wear the same clothes until they wear out... Never buy a book, never buy more than I can use... 4 pair of shoes..... You get the idea. Not trying to shame ANYONE, but you can get much more frugal and for me, it's just normal, not frugal. I also have no debt and completely own my own house and car. It pays to live simply.

[@kitderinger]

Enjoyed your video, Laura. Number one, you are hilarious! I have a blog that I’ve written in the past, that I don’t keep up with hardly anymore, but it has many of your tips and much more. I love living simply and being frugal and intentional about everything. You mentioned you were looking into cleaning products. Why not just use “blessing in a bottle“. It’s simply white vinegar, Dawn soap, and a tablespoon of detergent. I use it to clean almost everything. Another waste is gym memberships. I just work-out on my own at home and have a great expansive KZbin library of my favorite instructors. Many people, including my own son, pay a monthly membership and never go to the gym. Another rule is, I don’t buy anything without getting rid of at least one thing or more. If something comes in the house, something goes out of the house! 😁 I also track my monthly spending with an Excel spreadsheet I created. I’ve been doing that for 10 years and it is amazing. It is great to see where your money is going, and how quickly it can go if you don’t keep track! Good luck to you. I will look for more of your videos. 😉

[@lauras.lifejoy]

Thank you, Kathleen!

[@mrswilliamsxo]

Just found you on instagram & that’s how I discovered your channel! This was a great video; very insightful for me as a SAHM & homemaker trying to simplify my life. Subscribed! 😊

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!! 💛💛💛

[@handmakingapril]

I have had great success buying used books for those special ones I want keep.

[@gwenj5419]

I have a book I'm reading at all times, but I never buy books. I just borrow the kindle versions from my library with the Libby app.

[@KuGirlFilms]

Lovin' this video! Thanks for sharing and I am also trying to lead an intentional life where things I do keeps me in the present instead of living in a constantly living in a world of distractions. God bless! :)

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@landofkakiakahomeschool]

Loved the video and also, you have my dream hair. Lovely!

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I am so glad you enjoyed it! Oh wow, that’s very kind, thank you!

[@shelbygreen3404]

Absolutely 😮😊

[@rorygilmorelove6]

I really enjoyed your phone tips at the end. I actually developed chronic dry eyes due to excessive social media usage. If i heard your tips before i surely would be in a better position than i am in now.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I’m sorry to hear that, but glad you found the video helpful!

[@jeannineterese1037]

I either buy cards at Dollar Tree or print them online.

[@laurahart2250]

The phone tips are great - I immediately implemented most of them.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

so glad it was helpful 💛

[@mariarooney6262]

Very nice video. I hear you about paper, pens, loving to go into places that have them. That is the teacher in us. 😂❤️

[@Thatshowugetants]

Cards: dollar tree ($1for2)

[@lesliewillis2482]

You can get hallmark cards from dollar stores 2 for a dollar. I pick some a couple times a year.

[@danielleg1504]

Fiction books and kids books, also on a budget, if you change your mind: Book Outlet

[@agnesnagy207]

Used furniture! 👏👏

[@gracemunroe]

Most of the things that you 'don't do' I find that I still do, I like my coffees when I go out, I still get sodas in plastic bottles, and I like my pedicures, and having my hair cut, and my store bought bread, and I will upgrade my tv because I want to, I have two iPhones and an iPad, and my iMac Desktop, so yeah that's me, and you do you, good luck with that, I like to enjoy my life, so yeah.

[@Cheif_Runs_with_scissors]

It's good you enjoy your life with those things ❤it's also good people enjoy them without those things❤

[@LifeInTheLaterYears]

How did you get a blank page, I can't figure that out

[@sockbunbunp2764]

Are you a highly sensitive person? (HSP). You make decisions like one 😊. Nice video

[@cindychapman9210]

I used to make my own baby food when I had my twins years ago

[@janiceestes9518]

I am a nurse, and I can tell you, if you eat a well balance meal from the 4 basic food groups you do not need to take vitamins or supplements if all your lab values are within normal. When you take added supplements, your body knows what it needs, and all the extra vitamins/supplements are excreted in your urine. It is a waste of money. Companies will tell you need them just to make money off from you.

[@pinkunicorn8738]

I love plants I just ask my friends and family for cuttings x

[@lauras.lifejoy]

That's a great idea!

[@sandyheredia3027]

I have tons of dvd I want to get rid of. I think I will sell them for 3-5 each in a yard sale. The vhs tapes I will sell for a 1 since I know some people still have vhs recorder.

[@centrevezgaming4862]

I saved tons of money by doing my own hair and don’t use Netflix or Disney plus anymore another more money saved including passing on my consoles to an relative due to not playing video games because I have no time for them. Due to focusing on the garden plus traveling during the spring and summer season . Lastly be getting rid of dvds and Blu Rays that I no longer need or watch also due to concentrating on my TikTok career and on other platforms .

[@anthonys5568]

Thank you Ma'am for the very nice advice.

[@cherylbrunner9404]

Dollar tree for cards and gift bags

[@deannapalmer6759]

Had to be your 1000th subscriber lol :)

[@lauras.lifejoy]

MUCH appreciated! 😍

[@anacorona6234]

Gracias

[@paramedicchrisbookseries]

Thank you for sharing.

[@donnagrifford7142]

New 2 Ur channel! I enjoyed it very much! 👏👏👏👍💞

[@conniemalone8939]

Yeah I Like my I phone and my Tv & Satellite! Iam not gonna do without on things I enjoy in this lifetime! So you do you and I’ll do me! Like I think everyone should! I can see saving money but!!! Thiers gonna b a time our Money is gonna b No Good Anyway! People do need to plant a Garden & Can what u can! Get an Underground living Area buy up kerosene lamps & the oil for them! Get use to being without Electric & burning Wood for heat because that’s what it’s coming too very Soon! Good Luck on all you do!

[@HotMessMoneyMom]

Love this! New subscriber here 😊

[@lauras.lifejoy]

So glad you're here, Natasha!

[@zaizeleiful]

what are the shoes that you have?

[@sapnasarfare2920]

I am game for second-hand clothes, books, CDs and so on. The only thing i dont agree on is haircut. I rather give money to my salon for the right haircut. I have frizzy hair and cannot take the chance. I also dont use make-up except for coloured lip balm. i never understood the concept of makeup.. i usuallly attend book sales which gets me decent books at great price.

[@J.ElizabethB]

I’ve quit eating out. I’ve found the quality of food has decreased (and of course price increased) ever since the pandemic.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

that is so true!!

[@ginnynolo9025]

Bread recipe pleaseeee

[@lauras.lifejoy]

I share mine here: instagram.com/p/Cz6vyZDJeph/ Enjoy!!

[@marymccarthy2131]

How much did you pay for the highlights in your hair?

[@natara2811]

You are so pretty :)

[@sandyheredia3027]

I usually go to the dollar store. Cause I know people don’t keep them. I don’t either.

[@pattiupton1499]

Good video!

[@jewelse1975]

So doing that with my phone!!

[@lauras.lifejoy]

it has helped me so much!

[@jewelse1975]

@@lauras.lifejoy I’m already feeling the difference.

[@lauras.lifejoy]

What is something you don’t buy anymore? 👇🏼

[@Azzne-]

Things I don’t have a place for immediately. It may be a good deal and absolutely beautiful but if I do t know where to put it? Leaving it for someone else!

[@elainemarcavage2619]

Easy to say, come back in a few months and explain how you're doing.

[@Chemsci-j1v]

They’re called phases, not seasons ..

[@Arlene4HO]

Life is too short for this…

[@maurad5378]

Buy clothing secondhand.

[@santoshparvatikar]

The expression is, as bland as blended fruit.

[@evelynkempski2981]

Really? This is noteworthy? ...