Thoughts on Mindful Consumption

Modern society is notorious for promoting a materialistic way of being. It is an easy trap to fall into, but as I’m getting older, I’m learning the danger of using material possessions as a means of measuring my success and worth.

Advertising and marketing is powerful. In today’s world, companies have more channels than ever before to reach their target market. It is easy to get caught in a cycle of trying to stay up to date with the latest trends and to keep buying the newer, shinier versions of the things we own. But this can be a risky game that leaves us constantly feeling dissatisfied and yearning for more. I’m realising how quickly the novelty of new things wears off. Something I may have been wanting for a while doesn’t seem all that exciting once I have it. This has been challenging to contend with but it has also taught me a valuable lesson - trying to attain long-term happiness and satisfaction from things is not wise.

“I realised that every time I buy something from a brand whose values that do not align with my own, I am still supporting them, no matter how small the purchase may be.”

Impulse shopping is something I know only too well. With online shopping, especially, it can be easy to buy things you may not need, just because it is so easy. This is something I’ve fallen prey to many times, and it has left me with stuff I don’t actually want, but feel the need to hang onto to warrant the amount I’ve spent. Buyer’s remorse is something that goes hand in hand with impulse shopping and excessive consumption. I’ve found that as I’m trying to become more aware of my habits as a consumer, I feel less guilty about purchasing things I truly need and bring me joy.

Everyone has different goals, and of course, how you spend your money is your prerogative. But something I’ve challenged myself to do is think twice before I buy something. I have a rule where I don’t shop online at night. I sleep on it, and if it still feels like something I need, I make the purchase. This has helped me to reduce unnecessary spending. It also helps to write down our purchases to see how much we are spending. It can be quite overwhelming to be confronted with this, but it is a simple and effective way to hold yourself accountable.

I read an article once that said “your money is your vote”.

This really stuck with me as I hadn’t thought of it from that angle before. I realised that every time I buy something from a brand whose values that do not align with my own, I am still supporting them, no matter how small the purchase may be. And whilst these are not always easy thoughts and conversations to have, they are important ones.

Although it is easier said than done, the biggest thing I’m learning is not allowing myself to be too overwhelmed by all this. Baby steps, no matter how small and insignificant they may feel, make all the difference. Small changes lead to bigger ones. Being more mindful of my consumption is something I hope to continue to improve on over time.

Nabeela Parkar is one of our monthly Comeback writers. She has a keen interest in writing and would be more than happy to read her way through an entire library. She enjoys being challenged and facing tasks that require her to think for a little longer. She is fascinated by maths and science and also have a deep appreciation for the ocean, mountains and the natural world at large. She is currently in her last year of school and is on the path of deciding what to do with her life as of next year. She’s an avid believer that whilst everything happens for a reason, taking action towards achieving your goals and dreams is key.