The Rules of My No-Buy Year 2022

If you've never heard of a "No-Buy Year," it's essentially a year or another period of time during which you use solely what you have and don't buy anything new until you use up what you have. I've seen it frequently discussed by sustainable bloggers and influencers, and most recently again on TikTok, but there have been many articles written about it online too. The reasons people choose to do this vary, and for that reason the rules by which they hold themselves accountable also vary.

My reason behind the no-buy year is that I may be moving soon and I have a lot of stuff. I also had a professor mention this year that most people could go a year without buying any new clothes and that seems like a fun challenge. While I have no idea when I will be moving, I really want to limit what I have to move and potentially get rid of many items that no longer serve me without bringing more in. I'm also trying to save money. As a result this no-buy year will be more focused on beauty products, clothing and home goods that I'm purchasing for myself as opposed to the rules being applied to all purchasing.

Rule Number 1: This doesn't apply to gifts.

As I mentioned above, I'm trying to limit the amount of items I own that I would potentially have to move, so me buying a gift for a friend (or my dog) doesn't necessarily apply here.

Rule Number 2: I have to use what I have first.

This is a pretty general rule for a no-buy year but I feel like it bears repeating because this also means I cannot buy more of my favorite foundation if I already have foundations. The same applies to skincare, shampoo, even candles.

Rule Number 3: What happens when I break my no-buy rule?

In the even that I break my no-buy rule, I have to write a blog post that's at least 700 words long explaining my purchase and the reasoning behind it. This of course would only apply to purchases that are considered a want over needs. For example, I wouldn't have to justify my purchases if it's something I need if I move, but I new pair of jeans would require a mini essay.

Rule Number 4: When am I allowed to break this rule?

Because I will be moving at some point this year, I think it's important to address the needs that come with moving into a new place. While I have all kinds of baskets and things that have served me really well in my previous living spaces, I don't know where I'm going to end up or what my future living space looks like. Just right off, I know that I'll need a new trashcan for my next apartment, but I don't know what else I may need. Furthermore, since the purpose of this is to reduce the amount of items I'll need to bring with me when I move, I see no issue purchasing items that I need for my new living space. I may also need to buy specific clothing depending on the dress code requirements for that job. That being said, I still won't be buying clothing and accessories and such for fun unless I chose to participate in Rule 3.

Have you ever considered doing something like this before?

XOXO, Jacquelyn