I’m joining the “no buy” habit for 2025, also. I’m only replenishing my consumable items. I’m not purchasing anything new unless something breaks and I can’t do without the item until 2026.
Thank you...this should be shown in high school economics classes. People buy junk without thinking...these suggestions will contribute to the benefit of our planet as well as our personal health. Cheers from Portland Oregon
I'm decluttering my home after my mom moved to a care home. She has always been a hoarder and discarding her belongings has been really difficult for me mentally, physically, and emotionally. So I'm working on minimizing my own belongings and not buying anything I don't need and using up the things I have before buying a different variety. Thank you for sharing your perspectives and offering inspiration ❤
I’m currently on a NO BUY challenge for one year. I’m on month 3. I have a serious shopping addiction I’ve been trying to get rid of the past 15 years. I’ve never gone more than a month without buying something whether it was needed or not. So I’m proud of my 3 months sober! Unless there’s just no choice and I absolutely NEED something, I won’t be buying anything (groceries of course) for 9 more months. I told everyone I know to not give me any presents this year for Christmas and birthday and to not expect anything from me either, I’m no longer giving into consumerism and buying people presents just because a holiday says so. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and minimalism has definitely helped me out so much into getting rid of my shopping addiction. And of course the holidays are the toughest, don’t get me wrong I’ve seen things in stores I’ve gone nuts over and wanting them but all I do is admire them, stare at them for minutes if I have to buy I’ve learned to walk away from it and remember that I don’t need to own it just because it’s cute, I will usually take a pic of a item I really like and I can admire it anytime on my phone digitally and for free!
Need implies that we have something lacking in life. If you have a roof over your head, food in the fridge, you are healthy, have a job, and the means to meet your basic needs, then you are not lacking anything. Think about what you want, not what you need.
My sister and I agreed to give the presents a miss this year. We realised that we are buying rubbish we don't really need or want. It's such a relief to be honest!
I’m a 60+ year old American male and I’m with you on the minimal approach to life, no-social-media, cold feet and wearing socks to bed (LOL), items with no purpose, not using paper, not following trends, no alcohol, no gambling, and not buying cheap, short term things! Great video!
I didn't have a no buy list before watching this video. While watching the video, however, a list quickly grew in my mind. Top 3 on my list: 1. Cat toys. Frankly, my cat doesn't care if her toys come from a store. An empty box and a wad of crinkly paper make her just as happy. 🐈⬛ 2. Magazines and specific to a holiday softcover cookbooks. The kind of print items that you are forced to see when trapped in line at store registers, those impulse buys. 3. Random gifts without any practical purpose that I think a family member or friend might enjoy or find amusing. The enjoyment or amusement lasts a short time and then it just becomes a part of their clutter. Thanks, Vera, for getting me started!
LOL! I had a cat that would retrieve a crumpled piece of paper for hours! She would fetch and return it, dropping it in front of me and sit waiting for me to throw it again. I knit and crochet so often have leftover yarn. Tied up in a looped skein or rolled into ball makes a good toy. An old sock with another one stuffed inside and stitched up to keep it there makes a respectable ‘mouse’. 😁
I can just see a cat turning down its nose at a store-bought toy. The book "Johnny and the Bomb" has a tough cat named Guilty who avoided cat food. "To Guilty, cat food was for other cats."
I like your rule about not buying new books until you’ve read all of them. There is pressure (especially from the reading community on tiktok) to have a large and expansive library that you can show off to your friends and family. And buying books for the sake of buying them to fill a home library and not reading them is something that I will be working on next year.
Why would that even be a thing? Having a library of books to show off and not reading them? If you have a book, read it and, if it's good, pass it on to a friend who will read and enjoy it! I love reading real books but have only kept a few dozen over the years for reference or because I loved them so I couldn't bear to part with them. Like my complete works of Shakespeare from my senior year in undergrad school.
@@janetstonerook4552 It goes back to feudal days: some nobles had libraries because they were intellectually curious, others to show off their wealth. What's surprising is that it would be revived today as a TikTok trend. Many of us have probably seen a cafe with a wall of books, usually old ordinary books, that may be ostensibly for reading but nobody reads them. That's what this showy bookcase trend reminds me of.
Except for a few keepers I re read occasionally I give books to the local neighborhood "library" or book exchange across the street from my apt. It's where I've found some interesting reads. Also I'm so fortunate to live in a neighborhood that has many little book exchange libraries, and live 1 mile from our local library branch so I have no need to buy books, except for rare books I'd like to own. Blessings for all your suggestions, and I'm starting my no buy list today!!!
Vera, I agree with so many of the things you said! Especially buying from Temu, etc. I never have, mostly because I'm aware of the poor quality, and that all of it is just going to end up in a landfill. It makes me sad how unintentional many people are about buying. I was so happy to hear you address this!
Has anyone experienced judgment concerning minimal Holiday decor, or home decor in general? I’ve been frustrated by comments from others concerning this. I am an artist and I love beauty - but beauty cannot be appreciated in chaos. That’s true in life and in decorating.
I haven't had a Christmas tree since I was a child. Instead I sometimes buy a living rosemary or bush in a pot, and don't decorate it. My mom still doesn't quite understand, and gives me a ceramic angel a year, which I don't really know what to do with.
We are currently replacing all food containers from plastic to glass, including kitchen equipment as much as we can. Our goal in 2025 and ongoing, is to remove as much plastic and replace it for natural materials in our spaces and home as much as possible.
I really appreciate when you describe how to overcome the impulse purchase. Your story about seeing the cool teapot but then figuring out how to achieve the same result with already owned stuff was very inspiring.
Hi Vera! In 2025, I'm going to focus on using what I have. This means not "upgrading" when I have perfectly functional things that work. So I'm delaying purchases - especially tech, while I'm trying out some new hobbies. I'm finishing up 2024 by "eating through the pantry" and making sure that my food goes to use!
I agree with virtually everything you said, Vera . My biggest category that I want to stop buying in 2025 is reading material of any kind. I have enough Audible books, books on my Kindle, and physical books to last me over a year at least, so I'm going to try to just put any books that I want on a wish list until I finish the books that I have.
that's such a good goal! I did this over the last 6 months and it turns out there was a hidden gem that had been sitting unread on my shelf for years! Now one of my new favorite books :) hope you have a similar experience
I need to do this as well. My stack of books to be read is massive and I definitely have plenty to last me all of next year. It’s so hard…out of everything, books are my biggest weakness when it comes to spending, but I know I can do it😊
It’s amusing how people say “everyone” is wearing a burgundy bag and it’s never “everyone”. It’s a few very fashion conscious people. If you really look at the people around you every day you can see for yourself that all these “must haves” have been wildly over stated to sell products.
Information/trends never reaches me either and honestly i am so glad 😂 I do have a tea warmer, but i inherited it after my grandma passed, so I'll keep it haha My thing for 2025 is invest in things that are good quality and good for me, but small quantity. Like health, good food, 1 pair of good shoes etc
I agree with many of your points. For us it was a pivotal year and your course was a great companion to me, like a good friend on demand. Thank you, Vera! My list also includes: salad (almost always soggy in a day or two), avocado (either hard or rotten), cucumbers. I was analyzing the food consumption all year and eliminated at least 5 of those culprits that go straight to garbage.
Hi Vera! i also want to do a no buy year as much as I can. I have enough of everything. This year I will focus on decluttering and using up all my craft supplies that bring me so much joy, most of which are collected discarded paper to make junk journals, or repurposing old clothes to make new ones. I agree with you on everything!
Big YES to the wollen socks! I also got this wollen slippers that I wear at home with the socks which keep my feet warm and toasty. And made of natural fibers! The wollen slippers are super easy to find in The Netherlands :)
@@reneecarroll3269 The majority of vegans will still refuse the use of wool since it's an animal byproduct and it's considered an abuse of the animal. The same way they don't consume honey.
I am doing as long a no buy as long as I absolutely can next year. I had to stop using credit so everything will be bought with cash/debit only. My budget is extremely tight. That means everything I buy will be well thought out and prepared for . . . My word for 2025 is Simplify so I am going to work toward divesting myself of things that no longer serve instead of accumulating more. Great video, Vera!
I’m with you on so many of these! I quit all social media (only watch long form videos on TH-cam, no shorts) and it changed my life. It’s been great for my mental health. Best slippers I’ve ever had are from a Canada based store, Manitoba Mukluks. I have a black pair of their Tipi Slipper. Worn daily for 2 years and still working and looking great!
This is a good video to help rethink expenses for the new year. We have some more costly priorities now such as buying healthier food and feeding some of the wildlife nearby., so it helps to eliminate things we don’t really need as we stick to our values. Good video!
Good video. Thank you. I live "out in the sticks" as we say, my house sits on three acres, it is mostly forest, and I love my many species of birds, my wild bunny rabbits, my chipmunks, squirrels, and I will keep buying food for them, as they love it so much. The owls in my tall trees are huge, they each have their own tree and they talk to each other (hoot, hoot!) I don't need to feed the deer ... they just munch on the leaves in the bushes and trees ... and last summer they ate all the flowers off my beautiful plant outside, plus all the tomatoes off of three tomato plants. They left me one tomato. Wasn't that nice of them? I do love the deer, though, they have pretty eyes. More rarely seen are foxes, mountain beavers, cougars and bears and no, I won't feed them. Yes! Please do tell what kind of wildlife you have ... I am curious, too! From western Washington state (not D.C.), not far from the Pacific Ocean. I and my wildlife, wish everyone a good 2025. 🎉🎉🎉
I really wanna spend money only on necessary things like food, bills and clothing. I've been unemployed for 5 years because of depression and because of that I only wore old clothes. Now that I recovered and got a job 8 months ago, I really need to buy new clothes and bought some new ones that were not too cheap nor too expensive. I really wanna stop spending money on unnecessary things like junk food, soda and others. It's hard but I really wanna sacrifice those things so that I can _spend less and save more._ Things are getting more and more expensive here in South America and because of that, it's really necessary to save as much money as you can because of inflation.
Tell me about the hair! Mine is a mess. Thick, long, dry and don’t have to and was told not to shampoo my hair often. I can get by for two weeks and actually stays cleaner because I’m not over loading it then stripping it with harsh products. Now about the refrigerator decorating. WHAT???!!! 😂 I have never seen this before until now. Staying away from social media is a big one for me and going back to no sugary drinks. I had for five years than decided I wanted a Pepsi one day. Then another day. So on. Stop buying paper plates. I don’t like doing dishes. I bought a counter top dishwasher but still use paper plates. Being less selfish. I lost my 36 y.o. son this summer. His life in review has taught me a lot. I need to be more giving. As always live without all the unnecessary stuff I have and give it away. Thanks for doing the video!
I just bought a pair of the most comfortable shoes in the world at a pets in need thrift store for $8. So simple, so comfortable, so different and COMPLETELY sustainably made. I typed in Allbirds which is the company that makes them and discovered that pair costs $98 new and they were virtually new. I read the Allbirds environmental mission statement which is exactly what I've been looking for. I'm going to get another pair that are on sale now for $52. For years I've worn Sketchers which are still comfortable but I know my feet would be really happy with a second pair of Allbirds. Just for the record I really dislike shopping and do the best I can to make whatever I have last for a very very long time.
I definitely have a list. Most of what you have listed is on mine already. My motto is, don't buy it even if its on sale. If I don't NEED it, I won't buy it. I have a few boxes of beauty/hygiene products already since the pandemic started, and I definitely don't need to buy soaps for a while. Clothes, and shoes are the only exception as I'm hoping to lose some excess weight. I love the minimalist way of life, and am trying to pare down belongings slowly to achieve that.
ERGOfoot House Slippers With Arch Support, Orthopedic Slippers for Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief, Comfy Wool Felt Clog Slippers, Non-Slipv Indoor Outdoor House Slipper are my favorite! My goal is to purchase things to restock or replace broken items.
I have a feeling that this next year will be a no or extremely low buy year for many of us here in the US. This year I had quite a lot items of clothing just simply wear out. I've only been able to replace a few of them. Consequently, clothing, especially pants/skirts, is actually on my allowed list in 2025.
For 2025 I do not need: - new cosmetics - new shoes - new wool or anything for my knitting - new books - new furniture - new pillows - new plants - anything for cooking or kitchen - perfumes - sunglasses - jewelry - car - toys What I will buy: - medicine - food - tomato seeds - massage - sports coach hours - chemistry for home and garden - diapers for my newborn - clothes for kids - t-shirts and underwear for myself My financial goal to save USD 50k.
Something I am never buying again and I wish everybody stopped buying are perfumes and stuff with synthetic perfumes in it too. For someone with a lung disease (asthma in my case) that stuff can be incredibly triggering. I find it hard to use public transport sometimes, it doesn´t matter where I go, there is always someone with very strong perfume on. I get very strong headaches and my bronchii contract. These symptoms can persist for a couple of days from a short "contact". Please, be careful. We are free to do whatever we want as long as we do not harm others and perfumes do not stay with the wearer, the particles go all over and can do serious harm. Anyway, great video!! I am watching many like these because I would love to do a low/no buy year in 2025. We'll see how that goes. Thanks for sharing!
Candles. Not buying any more paraffin (petroleum based) candles. They have to emit smoke even though I can’t see it, because they make my eyes burn and if my house is too enclosed (no open window) I notice more labored breathing. I’m basically polluting my home for that beautiful flickering flame and scent. I don’t notice it with soy candles. And of course the little battery operated ones. I use them but they’re kind of like a low-calorie milkshake.
Over the past few months, I’ve become increasingly aware and alarmed at how much money I’m spending on books, stationary, stickers, return address labels and postage. It occurs to me that I’m buying all the assorted postage and stationary items to “impress“ the people I’m writing to. Also, I could easily utilize my local library. My other big expense is on various subscriptions. Added together, I’m horrified at how much money I’ve spent on these items in one year. I’m grateful to Vera and for this episode. Starting today, I’m setting healthier boundaries because my current habits are going against my life goals: Watching less TV, saving more money and creating more white space in my life. I even love Vera’s thoughts on limiting social media use because I find myself mindlessly scrolling when I’m bored. It’s a lot to think about but luckily, the changes I need to make are simple and clear.
We both share a love of tea and teaware. Sadly, in the past month I have broken my favorite teapot, and a cup. The tea house I visit regularly has so much lovely teaware that I'll have to be mindful only to purchase one teapot and one teacup. Kudos to you for giving up soda and sugary drinks. I did it years ago and don't miss them at all. Cheers to you for 2025!🎉
Thank you for the thoughtful and thought-inspiring video. I have been and will continue to work on "getting down to zero." This season I did not buy Christmas cards, but am writing personal greetings on basic stationery I already have.
Thank you for your videos. Enjoy listening to your point of view. I have a tip for hair care that can use your current favorite products that has worked well for myself. I wash and condition my hair when showering, but backward. - At the start of shower, I slightly wet hair and apply the conditioner. Then I complete thing the rest of my shower. Then at the end, I soak my hair and shampoo. Hair feels nice and not over conditioned like it does with the doing it in the opposite.
Thank you for all the great ideas. Some were not applicable to me, but others will go on my low buy year list! I am new to minimizing our possessions and am enjoying the process. I don’t think I will ever be a minimalist, but am also very tired of consumerism and the waste it generates on so many levels. Just recently found your channel and am enjoying your content very much 😁❤️
I find the thicker hiking /skiing socks to be a very good alternative for thick house socks. And i like that i dont need to buy something special for the purpose ( as somebody who hikes and does skiing in winter anyway ) ;) ❤
Love all your takes!!! I struggle with my curly hair and I've stopped using expensive products too. I use an apple cider rinse lately which has been great! It's great how you can reflect on your life decisions and share them with us ❤
@La_Dame_aux_chats True. Things should be of good quality, they should matter, they should last long, they should have value. Almost nothing should be disposable, and from Chinese sites everything is just disposable trash.
I am with you on this! Starting my no spend year not in January but now! Using what I already have and what I would have usually spent. I will only allow certain things
Hi Vera I’m going to plan a no spend your in 2025 as much as possible I will just use whatever I have and declutter as I go on plus I’ve already made my mind up regarding next Xmas my gifts will be very minimal as I spent to much every year and I have lots of birthdays throughout the year so I must draw a line on this thank you for your video it’s given me a extra push in the right direction
I bought my first house this year and there is a LOT of work that needs done. So, I'm not spending money on many extras because I don't want to go into debt to do needed things, if I can avoid it. Thanks for additional ideas and Happy Holidays! 💖
My hair is curly, and I can't agree more: my hair will do whatever it wants. My advice: let it be. Sometimes, stressing over it makes it even harder to accept it. I also learned that a lot of the products that people suggest doesn't work for me, so I'll stick with my easy and simple routine.
As a Canadian of European ancestry, I purchased 3 of the Ruby period panties following a recent video. I purchased a 3X and they’re a bit snug. I would recommend buying a size up. That said, they don’t leak at ALL, and they’re easy to clean. It doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a diaper and it doesn’t give me a diaper rash.
Dear Vera! Your youtube channel was with no doubt the most precious of all of my internet findings this year! The simplicity of your videos, the calmness, this no-rush approach, which doesn't wind up emotions is so, so, so lovely! And also, I do appreciate the fact that you never preach at us - instead, you inspire, you support, you give ideas. Your idea that "you can like things without necessarily owning them" absolutely blew my mind! And if I may boast a bit, I went to a Christmas crafts fair (!!!) today and I didn't buy anything! Although, you know, didn't I see lovely pieces there! But I just appreciated them, just like you inspire us to do! I cannot express how much I value the truthfulness of your content. Thank you so so much. I do hope you have a lovely magical Holiday season, however you decide to spend it! Warm greetings from Poland! 🙂
My husband and I save jars like spaghetti sauce or salsa and reuse them for food storage. We never use plastic. I do not buy shampoo, I wet my hair and use baking soda in water with a touch of vinegar. A little cocoanut oil rubbed on your palms and fingers, and then rub/comb through your wet hair and brush. It’ll be manageable.
Thoughtful. Thank you. I’d like to share a stat I’m learned yesterday. 92 billion tonnes of garment go into the world wide landfill annually. Reinforced my challenge to myself about buying more clothes. A new fan and a Dutchy at heart - born in Canada to immigrant parents. Many of my personality and lifestyle traits I love saying are due to my Dutch heritage!! Motto: Less is more, ie more time, more savings, more peace!!
thank you so so much for your content vera, it was again really inspiring for living a (for me personally) better lifestyle 😊 i love that you speak about so many different parts of everyday life 😊 i did a 'no-buy-december' this year - bought small presents with purpose for my loved ones already in november - and i'm not regretting it 😄 i will try my best to keep up with what i've learned for me this year about a minimalist lifestyle for 2025. and i do really hope that more people will think about their buying-choices, because they do have an impact on our world! also looking forward to watching your videos in 2025 😊 wishing you all the best from austria ❤
I went with a fancy tea kettle instead of a fancy teapot. I'd had too many instances of glass tea presses breaking and stovetop kettles boiling dry, so I bought an electric kettle and a metal travel tea press. I didn't go for the cheapest kettle either but the one I really wanted: with a round thermometer, a simple on-off switch, and a retro style. I use it several times a day now, and it's such a joy to use.
Oh my, the teapot with the little tea light takes me back to the seventies and eighties - very retro. It does look cosy, but it also introduces soot and 'fijnstof', so the thermos is likely the better option.
You're the second Dutch youtuber I've noticed that shortens "number" to "nr" in English. It reads as "near 3" not number 3 "no.3" Great list! I wish everyone lived mindfully, then we wouldn't have climate change.
For me it's books. I have wayyyyy too many unread books. The only exception though is buying books at my city's annual book fair. It really is my happy place and it's always on my birthday so it's the only time of the year I can buy books. And if I really want to read a book that I can't find at this book fair or it's not that time of the year yet, I check the library. I did this in 2024 and I'm continuing in 2025 because I still have too many books.
Hi Vera, love the video, so much food for thought. I'm doing a no spend stationery, journaling and art supply year, I'll allow a refill, if I need one. I got carried away with this during COVID and still have so many just started and unused things, even after giving some away. It will be a low spend for household products, I've learned this from you, and we don't need anything for the house. Everything we would like this year including a holiday will be saved for. I feel we are starting the new year with a much simpler and happier outlook. Thank you so much for your very inspiring chats xxx
I agree with you Vera. With time and experience we learn to live and so to buy more consciously than impulsively. Thanks for sharing ideas. Keep up your beautiful work🌸
First? I love watching your channel. It feels like just comfortably sitting back and listening to a lovely person ( with gorgeous hair!☺️) expressing very useful and sensible thoughts. I’m an older Canadian guy. I’m in my 50th year of being a dedicated vegetarian. I’m drifting closer to veganism. So, I have one leather belt ( my only belt) that I’ve had for 20 years. It will likely break in 2025 and I won’t replace it with leather. I aspire to Henry David Thoreau’s plea to “Simplify, simplify, simplify” ( from his book “Walden”) I’m guided by the principle of Kaizen; gradual constant improvement). Your ideas constantly validate my thinking and give me things to think about. ❤️🇨🇦
I dont buy containers, but i keep glass jars and funky containers that I've emptied and pulled the labels off of to keep goods in. Clear containers are so helpful for my ADHD brain to be able to quickly assess what i actually have in my fridge or cabinets. My veggies and fruits dont go bad as often since i started keeping them more visible. Ive made my own hair masks and stuff. You may find it a fun activity to do one afternoon to see how it goes. Not that expensive to make simple ones either. I noticed the adorable bunny bookend in your background and wanted to tell you i think it's lovely.
Those clips of restocking containers reminde me of "mise-en-place", where TV cooks have each ingredient in its own little bowl. Mark Bittman says restaurants need that to keep track of several orders at once, but it's overkill for home cooks. I've found you can use one bowl for things that go together, for instance if it will all go into the same pan at the same time.
👋 Hej Vera and other followers 😊 I agree ofcourse with Vera , that is why I’m watching her channel as it is very close to my life style and habits 😊 I did change many things last time like : I did cancel insta and fb profiles 🎉 I’m very proud and happy of that big better step in my life . I had a huge problem with instagram but finally I did remove it and I feel really FREE. I’m watching TH-cam as my only socialmedia and it’s more than perfect 👌 greetings and Merry Christmas to all of you 🌲🎄
Vera, what an amazing list! I’m definitely going to use many of your ideas while making my own “No Buy/Low Buy) list for 2025. Honestly, I don’t need anything. Other than perishables, I really do have everything I need (and want) to live contently. I also am going to try my hardest to stick to a strict budget when it comes to food and perishables. Thank you for your inspirational video❤️
I love this! :) I also like having hot tea in the winter and I do the same thing! To make it feel more "special" I made a cute quilted mug wrap out of fabric I already had at home, which I can put around my insulated travel mug to make it feel more unique and cozy (it's just a flat rectangle with a tie, so it's adjustable and I can also tie it through a mug with a handle; you put any kind of fleece or quilt batting or thermal batting or even a piece of an old sweater or sock or pot holder in between the two pieces of fabric on the outside). There are many things you can do to make things feel "special" just by using things you probably already have instead of buying new supplies. I don't call myself a minimalist because I have many things (since it takes a lot for me to get rid of things) but I'm also not a frequent buyer and for the past several years I've been a lot more mindful about what I bring into my home; I have been trying to focus more on mending and using and repurposing and appreciating what I already have :) I also have a lifelong hobby of sewing, so I have many DIY and mending materials already, I am also trying to "shop my stash" and not grow my collection. 100% with you on so many of these things particularly the cheap websites and generative AI.
Something I didn't buy this year is Pointsettia plants. I always buy a few to decorate my front porch steps. I try to keep them alive, but I always end up putting them in the compost each year. This year I am just skipping that; it is too costly to spend money on compost!
I am doing a no buy quarter. January February & March only food to cook at home. Everything else I'm going to use all the little bits of everything. Also going to declutter those months as well
I found myself nodding my head in agreement with you on so many points!! A. Comfy, stretchy = beautiful! B. You have beautiful hair C. No more stickers 😢 D. No such thing as dressing for your body type. Not because you don’t have a body type, because there is no one way to dress it My intention in the last years is to buy less and better quality. I find that if I pay more attention and am willing to pay more money, I appreciate my purchase and use it more. And I say that I’m very good at least in achieving half of my intention… (you know which one). Regarding ai: I’m thinking about it in a totally different way than you… I have many many thoughts, as a teacher, as a philosopher. It’s too long and maybe too complicated for the comment section. But maybe we will talk about it one day (-:
So wise,as usual! Many things I think like you. For me, I don't like AI either. Also, I don't want to spend hours looking at YT videos anymore. BUT, you are definitely the only one left that I will follow with plaisir. Instagram for me, is different because of the aquarelle artists I like to follow for their work. But, that's it. Thank you Vera!
Everything I have seem to be from thrift stores, except my underwear, of course. I do my New Year clean out every December and have decided not to buy anything the coming year that I don't need.
I’m joining the “no buy” habit for 2025, also. I’m only replenishing my consumable items. I’m not purchasing anything new unless something breaks and I can’t do without the item until 2026.
Awesome, wishing you all the best! :)
Me too. I truly do already have everything I need😊
i wanna join you on this
Thank you...this should be shown in high school economics classes. People buy junk without thinking...these suggestions will contribute to the benefit of our planet as well as our personal health. Cheers from Portland Oregon
Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it! 😊
I'm decluttering my home after my mom moved to a care home. She has always been a hoarder and discarding her belongings has been really difficult for me mentally, physically, and emotionally. So I'm working on minimizing my own belongings and not buying anything I don't need and using up the things I have before buying a different variety. Thank you for sharing your perspectives and offering inspiration ❤
I’m currently on a NO BUY challenge for one year. I’m on month 3. I have a serious shopping addiction I’ve been trying to get rid of the past 15 years. I’ve never gone more than a month without buying something whether it was needed or not. So I’m proud of my 3 months sober! Unless there’s just no choice and I absolutely NEED something, I won’t be buying anything (groceries of course) for 9 more months. I told everyone I know to not give me any presents this year for Christmas and birthday and to not expect anything from me either, I’m no longer giving into consumerism and buying people presents just because a holiday says so. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and minimalism has definitely helped me out so much into getting rid of my shopping addiction. And of course the holidays are the toughest, don’t get me wrong I’ve seen things in stores I’ve gone nuts over and wanting them but all I do is admire them, stare at them for minutes if I have to buy I’ve learned to walk away from it and remember that I don’t need to own it just because it’s cute, I will usually take a pic of a item I really like and I can admire it anytime on my phone digitally and for free!
And...When people ask me what i want for Christmas...I honestly can't think of one thing. I don't need anything and honestly...I'm content.
Yay for being happy and content with what we already have! 😊
Need implies that we have something lacking in life. If you have a roof over your head, food in the fridge, you are healthy, have a job, and the means to meet your basic needs, then you are not lacking anything. Think about what you want, not what you need.
"What do you want for Christmas?" "Help with decluttering."
My sister and I agreed to give the presents a miss this year. We realised that we are buying rubbish we don't really need or want. It's such a relief to be honest!
I’m a 60+ year old American male and I’m with you on the minimal approach to life, no-social-media, cold feet and wearing socks to bed (LOL), items with no purpose, not using paper, not following trends, no alcohol, no gambling, and not buying cheap, short term things! Great video!
Awesome! :) And I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the video. :) Have a lovely Sunday!
@@SimpleHappyZen Niksen Sunday! 😊
Love this!! 👏🏽
I didn't have a no buy list before watching this video. While watching the video, however, a list quickly grew in my mind. Top 3 on my list: 1. Cat toys. Frankly, my cat doesn't care if her toys come from a store. An empty box and a wad of crinkly paper make her just as happy. 🐈⬛
2. Magazines and specific to a holiday softcover cookbooks. The kind of print items that you are forced to see when trapped in line at store registers, those impulse buys.
3. Random gifts without any practical purpose that I think a family member or friend might enjoy or find amusing. The enjoyment or amusement lasts a short time and then it just becomes a part of their clutter.
Thanks, Vera, for getting me started!
LOL! I had a cat that would retrieve a crumpled piece of paper for hours! She would fetch and return it, dropping it in front of me and sit waiting for me to throw it again. I knit and crochet so often have leftover yarn. Tied up in a looped skein or rolled into ball makes a good toy. An old sock with another one stuffed inside and stitched up to keep it there makes a respectable ‘mouse’. 😁
I can just see a cat turning down its nose at a store-bought toy. The book "Johnny and the Bomb" has a tough cat named Guilty who avoided cat food. "To Guilty, cat food was for other cats."
Sometimes I get magazines from my library.
I like your rule about not buying new books until you’ve read all of them. There is pressure (especially from the reading community on tiktok) to have a large and expansive library that you can show off to your friends and family. And buying books for the sake of buying them to fill a home library and not reading them is something that I will be working on next year.
Love that 😊❤ A wonderful goal! Happy reading! 📚
Thrift shops have a ton of books for 50 cents each that one could use to fill up bookshelves.
Why would that even be a thing? Having a library of books to show off and not reading them? If you have a book, read it and, if it's good, pass it on to a friend who will read and enjoy it! I love reading real books but have only kept a few dozen over the years for reference or because I loved them so I couldn't bear to part with them. Like my complete works of Shakespeare from my senior year in undergrad school.
@@janetstonerook4552 It goes back to feudal days: some nobles had libraries because they were intellectually curious, others to show off their wealth. What's surprising is that it would be revived today as a TikTok trend. Many of us have probably seen a cafe with a wall of books, usually old ordinary books, that may be ostensibly for reading but nobody reads them. That's what this showy bookcase trend reminds me of.
Except for a few keepers I re read occasionally I give books to the local neighborhood "library" or book exchange across the street from my apt. It's where I've found some interesting reads. Also I'm so fortunate to live in a neighborhood that has many little book exchange libraries, and live 1 mile from our local library branch so I have no need to buy books, except for rare books I'd like to own. Blessings for all your suggestions, and I'm starting my no buy list today!!!
Vera, I agree with so many of the things you said! Especially buying from Temu, etc. I never have, mostly because I'm aware of the poor quality, and that all of it is just going to end up in a landfill. It makes me sad how unintentional many people are about buying. I was so happy to hear you address this!
Glad to hear you enjoyed the video Laura 😊 Have a lovely rest of your Sunday!!
I agree with you regarding Temu. I will not support any questionable business.
You are a truly intelligent person, thank you for the video!
Has anyone experienced judgment concerning minimal Holiday decor, or home decor in general? I’ve been frustrated by comments from others concerning this. I am an artist and I love beauty - but beauty cannot be appreciated in chaos. That’s true in life and in decorating.
I haven't had a Christmas tree since I was a child. Instead I sometimes buy a living rosemary or bush in a pot, and don't decorate it. My mom still doesn't quite understand, and gives me a ceramic angel a year, which I don't really know what to do with.
I truly don’t need to buy anything! Not proud of that fact. So I will be concentrating on using up and decluttering. 🙌🏼 Food goes without saying 😉
👏The fact that you have recognised this yourself is a huge step😊
We are currently replacing all food containers from plastic to glass, including kitchen equipment as much as we can. Our goal in 2025 and ongoing, is to remove as much plastic and replace it for natural materials in our spaces and home as much as possible.
That is a great plan!
I really appreciate when you describe how to overcome the impulse purchase. Your story about seeing the cool teapot but then figuring out how to achieve the same result with already owned stuff was very inspiring.
Hi Vera! In 2025, I'm going to focus on using what I have. This means not "upgrading" when I have perfectly functional things that work. So I'm delaying purchases - especially tech, while I'm trying out some new hobbies.
I'm finishing up 2024 by "eating through the pantry" and making sure that my food goes to use!
I agree with virtually everything you said, Vera . My biggest category that I want to stop buying in 2025 is reading material of any kind. I have enough Audible books, books on my Kindle, and physical books to last me over a year at least, so I'm going to try to just put any books that I want on a wish list until I finish the books that I have.
That's a really great goal!! 😁👍 Happy reading!
that's such a good goal! I did this over the last 6 months and it turns out there was a hidden gem that had been sitting unread on my shelf for years! Now one of my new favorite books :) hope you have a similar experience
I need to do this as well. My stack of books to be read is massive and I definitely have plenty to last me all of next year. It’s so hard…out of everything, books are my biggest weakness when it comes to spending, but I know I can do it😊
It’s amusing how people say “everyone” is wearing a burgundy bag and it’s never “everyone”. It’s a few very fashion conscious people. If you really look at the people around you every day you can see for yourself that all these “must haves” have been wildly over stated to sell products.
Information/trends never reaches me either and honestly i am so glad 😂
I do have a tea warmer, but i inherited it after my grandma passed, so I'll keep it haha
My thing for 2025 is invest in things that are good quality and good for me, but small quantity. Like health, good food, 1 pair of good shoes etc
I agree with many of your points. For us it was a pivotal year and your course was a great companion to me, like a good friend on demand. Thank you, Vera! My list also includes: salad (almost always soggy in a day or two), avocado (either hard or rotten), cucumbers. I was analyzing the food consumption all year and eliminated at least 5 of those culprits that go straight to garbage.
Yes, I also had too much rotten avocado’s
You are so right with salad and avocado! I could add carrots...
So happy to hear you enjoyed my course, and yay for being mindful of preventing food waste!! 😊❤ Wishing you all the best with your goals for 2025
Hi Vera! i also want to do a no buy year as much as I can. I have enough of everything. This year I will focus on decluttering and using up all my craft supplies that bring me so much joy, most of which are collected discarded paper to make junk journals, or repurposing old clothes to make new ones.
I agree with you on everything!
As a knitter, I’ve switched to hand knit wool socks-very warm and durable. Plus, they fit in my shoes!
Big YES to the wollen socks! I also got this wollen slippers that I wear at home with the socks which keep my feet warm and toasty. And made of natural fibers! The wollen slippers are super easy to find in The Netherlands :)
Ooops, I just remembered that Vera is vegan, so probably wool is a no-go…
@@teresaabadia5948 you don't kill an animal for wool. its ok.
@@reneecarroll3269 The majority of vegans will still refuse the use of wool since it's an animal byproduct and it's considered an abuse of the animal. The same way they don't consume honey.
I am doing as long a no buy as long as I absolutely can next year. I had to stop using credit so everything will be bought with cash/debit only. My budget is extremely tight. That means everything I buy will be well thought out and prepared for . . . My word for 2025 is Simplify so I am going to work toward divesting myself of things that no longer serve instead of accumulating more. Great video, Vera!
Thank you so much for sharing Madison, and wishing you all the best with your goals for 2025! Have a lovely Sunday
You can do it! 😊
"No buy as long as it makes sense", makes more sense to me than vowing not to buy anything for a long fixed time period.
I’m with you on so many of these! I quit all social media (only watch long form videos on TH-cam, no shorts) and it changed my life. It’s been great for my mental health.
Best slippers I’ve ever had are from a Canada based store, Manitoba Mukluks. I have a black pair of their Tipi Slipper. Worn daily for 2 years and still working and looking great!
This is a good video to help rethink expenses for the new year. We have some more costly priorities now such as buying healthier food and feeding some of the wildlife nearby., so it helps to eliminate things we don’t really need as we stick to our values. Good video!
Thanks for sharing Donna! What wildlife nearby are you feeding? We don't really have that kind of wildlife where I live haha, so I'm curious. :)
Good video. Thank you.
I live "out in the sticks" as we say, my house sits on three acres, it is mostly forest, and I love my many species of birds, my wild bunny rabbits, my chipmunks, squirrels, and I will keep buying food for them, as they love it so much. The owls in my tall trees are huge, they each have their own tree and they talk to each other (hoot, hoot!) I don't need to feed the deer ... they just munch on the leaves in the bushes and trees ... and last summer they ate all the flowers off my beautiful plant outside, plus all the tomatoes off of three tomato plants. They left me one tomato. Wasn't that nice of them? I do love the deer, though, they have pretty eyes.
More rarely seen are foxes, mountain beavers, cougars and bears and no, I won't feed them.
Yes! Please do tell what kind of wildlife you have ... I am curious, too!
From western Washington state (not D.C.), not far from the Pacific Ocean.
I and my wildlife, wish everyone a good 2025.
🎉🎉🎉
@@galaxy98765 I love this comment! ❤🦌🦔🐿🐇🦡🦉🕊
Wear what you enjoy.
I agree 😊
Celebrate your natural hair. We love you.
I'm loving my natural hair too :) Thank you!
Totally agree…your natural hair is beautiful!
Fridge like forest 😂😂😂😂
My fridge looks like a fridge (and sometimes like a mess). And that's it.
I really wanna spend money only on necessary things like food, bills and clothing. I've been unemployed for 5 years because of depression and because of that I only wore old clothes. Now that I recovered and got a job 8 months ago, I really need to buy new clothes and bought some new ones that were not too cheap nor too expensive. I really wanna stop spending money on unnecessary things like junk food, soda and others. It's hard but I really wanna sacrifice those things so that I can _spend less and save more._ Things are getting more and more expensive here in South America and because of that, it's really necessary to save as much money as you can because of inflation.
Tell me about the hair! Mine is a mess. Thick, long, dry and don’t have to and was told not to shampoo my hair often. I can get by for two weeks and actually stays cleaner because I’m not over loading it then stripping it with harsh products.
Now about the refrigerator decorating. WHAT???!!! 😂 I have never seen this before until now.
Staying away from social media is a big one for me and going back to no sugary drinks. I had for five years than decided I wanted a Pepsi one day. Then another day. So on.
Stop buying paper plates. I don’t like doing dishes. I bought a counter top dishwasher but still use paper plates.
Being less selfish. I lost my 36 y.o. son this summer. His life in review has taught me a lot. I need to be more giving.
As always live without all the unnecessary stuff I have and give it away.
Thanks for doing the video!
I just bought a pair of the most comfortable shoes in the world at a pets in need thrift store for $8. So simple, so comfortable, so different and COMPLETELY sustainably made. I typed in Allbirds which is the company that makes them and discovered that pair costs $98 new and they were virtually new. I read the Allbirds environmental mission statement which is exactly what I've been looking for. I'm going to get another pair that are on sale now for $52. For years I've worn Sketchers which are still comfortable but I know my feet would be really happy with a second pair of Allbirds. Just for the record I really dislike shopping and do the best I can to make whatever I have last for a very very long time.
Simply no buy 2025 except the necessary or the replacement, the same as in 2024 ! I love it
I haven’t used a purse since 1994. Keys on key chain and chapstick in left pocket, credit card in back pocket, and phone in right pocket. Good to go.
No social media for me. For example, if you’re going on vacation, if you don’t tell me personally then I’m not supposed to know that.
‼️‼️‼️👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾💯💯💯
I definitely have a list. Most of what you have listed is on mine already. My motto is, don't buy it even if its on sale. If I don't NEED it, I won't buy it. I have a few boxes of beauty/hygiene products already since the pandemic started, and I definitely don't need to buy soaps for a while. Clothes, and shoes are the only exception as I'm hoping to lose some excess weight. I love the minimalist way of life, and am trying to pare down belongings slowly to achieve that.
I just love your channel, Vera. I really admire you and am pleased as punch to agree with you on so much.
Thank you so much! 🤗💕🥰 Have a lovely weekend!
ERGOfoot House Slippers With Arch Support, Orthopedic Slippers for Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief, Comfy Wool Felt Clog Slippers, Non-Slipv Indoor Outdoor House Slipper are my favorite! My goal is to purchase things to restock or replace broken items.
I have a feeling that this next year will be a no or extremely low buy year for many of us here in the US.
This year I had quite a lot items of clothing just simply wear out. I've only been able to replace a few of them. Consequently, clothing, especially pants/skirts, is actually on my allowed list in 2025.
I think your natural hair is super cute anyway! I’ve always been slightly envious of very curly hair. ;)
For 2025 I do not need:
- new cosmetics
- new shoes
- new wool or anything for my knitting
- new books
- new furniture
- new pillows
- new plants
- anything for cooking or kitchen
- perfumes
- sunglasses
- jewelry
- car
- toys
What I will buy:
- medicine
- food
- tomato seeds
- massage
- sports coach hours
- chemistry for home and garden
- diapers for my newborn
- clothes for kids
- t-shirts and underwear for myself
My financial goal to save USD 50k.
Great list!
"The Gilded Nexus of Prosperity " ebook, thank me later
I just downloaded this book and started reading it,man, I'll buy you dinner for this recommendation!
Something I am never buying again and I wish everybody stopped buying are perfumes and stuff with synthetic perfumes in it too. For someone with a lung disease (asthma in my case) that stuff can be incredibly triggering. I find it hard to use public transport sometimes, it doesn´t matter where I go, there is always someone with very strong perfume on. I get very strong headaches and my bronchii contract. These symptoms can persist for a couple of days from a short "contact". Please, be careful. We are free to do whatever we want as long as we do not harm others and perfumes do not stay with the wearer, the particles go all over and can do serious harm.
Anyway, great video!! I am watching many like these because I would love to do a low/no buy year in 2025. We'll see how that goes.
Thanks for sharing!
Candles. Not buying any more paraffin (petroleum based) candles. They have to emit smoke even though I can’t see it, because they make my eyes burn and if my house is too enclosed (no open window) I notice more labored breathing. I’m basically polluting my home for that beautiful flickering flame and scent. I don’t notice it with soy candles. And of course the little battery operated ones. I use them but they’re kind of like a low-calorie milkshake.
Over the past few months, I’ve become increasingly aware and alarmed at how much money I’m spending on books, stationary, stickers, return address labels and postage. It occurs to me that I’m buying all the assorted postage and stationary items to “impress“ the people I’m writing to. Also, I could easily utilize my local library. My other big expense is on various subscriptions. Added together, I’m horrified at how much money I’ve spent on these items in one year. I’m grateful to Vera and for this episode. Starting today, I’m setting healthier boundaries because my current habits are going against my life goals: Watching less TV, saving more money and creating more white space in my life. I even love Vera’s thoughts on limiting social media use because I find myself mindlessly scrolling when I’m bored. It’s a lot to think about but luckily, the changes I need to make are simple and clear.
Thank you , I've been pairing down over the last year! Liberating!
I'm wasting no money on new clothes. I'm wearing what I have.
We both share a love of tea and teaware. Sadly, in the past month I have broken my favorite teapot, and a cup. The tea house I visit regularly has so much lovely teaware that I'll have to be mindful only to purchase one teapot and one teacup. Kudos to you for giving up soda and sugary drinks. I did it years ago and don't miss them at all. Cheers to you for 2025!🎉
I'm so glad I stumbled onto your channel! 🥰
Thank you Jeannie! I looked at one of your videos and immediately got the tingles 🤗👍🥰
Thank you for the thoughtful and thought-inspiring video. I have been and will continue to work on "getting down to zero." This season I did not buy Christmas cards, but am writing personal greetings on basic stationery I already have.
Vera, I really appreciate your honesty and thoughtfulness! It's so refreshing and allows us space to be real too! Thanks xx
Liberating to not worry about trends, right!
Thank you for your videos. Enjoy listening to your point of view.
I have a tip for hair care that can use your current favorite products that has worked well for myself.
I wash and condition my hair when showering, but backward. - At the start of shower, I slightly wet hair and apply the conditioner. Then I complete thing the rest of my shower. Then at the end, I soak my hair and shampoo. Hair feels nice and not over conditioned like it does with the doing it in the opposite.
Thank you for all the great ideas. Some were not applicable to me, but others will go on my low buy year list! I am new to minimizing our possessions and am enjoying the process. I don’t think I will ever be a minimalist, but am also very tired of consumerism and the waste it generates on so many levels. Just recently found your channel and am enjoying your content very much 😁❤️
I find the thicker hiking /skiing socks to be a very good alternative for thick house socks. And i like that i dont need to buy something special for the purpose ( as somebody who hikes and does skiing in winter anyway ) ;) ❤
Love all your takes!!! I struggle with my curly hair and I've stopped using expensive products too. I use an apple cider rinse lately which has been great! It's great how you can reflect on your life decisions and share them with us ❤
I despise Chinese shopping sites, not only that merch is bad, but they are abusive to sellers as well. As you said, they are not helping anyone.
Same here. So much wastage and landfill .
@La_Dame_aux_chats True. Things should be of good quality, they should matter, they should last long, they should have value. Almost nothing should be disposable, and from Chinese sites everything is just disposable trash.
Thank you Vero. You’re such an inspiration x
Thanks for your content over the past year and hope you and your family have a great Christmas and all the best for 2025 🎄
I love your ideas . They are so real. I love the clutter ideas,and the info on social media ❤
Really interesting video, lots of think about, thank you.
I am with you on this! Starting my no spend year not in January but now! Using what I already have and what I would have usually spent. I will only allow certain things
Hi Vera I’m going to plan a no spend your in 2025 as much as possible I will just use whatever I have and declutter as I go on plus I’ve already made my mind up regarding next Xmas my gifts will be very minimal as I spent to much every year and I have lots of birthdays throughout the year so I must draw a line on this thank you for your video it’s given me a extra push in the right direction
Washable slippers are the best. I’ve had mine for years. They have a rubber sole so it holds up on any floor
I bought my first house this year and there is a LOT of work that needs done. So, I'm not spending money on many extras because I don't want to go into debt to do needed things, if I can avoid it. Thanks for additional ideas and Happy Holidays! 💖
My hair is curly, and I can't agree more: my hair will do whatever it wants. My advice: let it be. Sometimes, stressing over it makes it even harder to accept it.
I also learned that a lot of the products that people suggest doesn't work for me, so I'll stick with my easy and simple routine.
As a Canadian of European ancestry, I purchased 3 of the Ruby period panties following a recent video. I purchased a 3X and they’re a bit snug. I would recommend buying a size up. That said, they don’t leak at ALL, and they’re easy to clean. It doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a diaper and it doesn’t give me a diaper rash.
Jewelry… I wear the same pearl earrings everyday and use what I have already for necklaces and bracelets ( which is few)
Love this video 🥰 And totally agree about social media. I'm so much calmer and happier after deleting all the apps 2 months ago.
Silence holds power; it creates space for clarity, while drama only distracts from your true intentions.
I’m ready to embrace a more minimalist lifestyle. This video came out at the perfect time and gave me a lot to think about.
Dear Vera! Your youtube channel was with no doubt the most precious of all of my internet findings this year! The simplicity of your videos, the calmness, this no-rush approach, which doesn't wind up emotions is so, so, so lovely! And also, I do appreciate the fact that you never preach at us - instead, you inspire, you support, you give ideas. Your idea that "you can like things without necessarily owning them" absolutely blew my mind! And if I may boast a bit, I went to a Christmas crafts fair (!!!) today and I didn't buy anything! Although, you know, didn't I see lovely pieces there! But I just appreciated them, just like you inspire us to do! I cannot express how much I value the truthfulness of your content. Thank you so so much. I do hope you have a lovely magical Holiday season, however you decide to spend it! Warm greetings from Poland! 🙂
My husband and I save jars like spaghetti sauce or salsa and reuse them for food storage. We never use plastic. I do not buy shampoo, I wet my hair and use baking soda in water with a touch of vinegar. A little cocoanut oil rubbed on your palms and fingers, and then rub/comb through your wet hair and brush. It’ll be manageable.
Thoughtful. Thank you. I’d like to share a stat I’m learned yesterday. 92 billion tonnes of garment go into the world wide landfill annually. Reinforced my challenge to myself about buying more clothes. A new fan and a Dutchy at heart - born in Canada to immigrant parents. Many of my personality and lifestyle traits I love saying are due to my Dutch heritage!!
Motto: Less is more, ie more time, more savings, more peace!!
Love such videos! Thank you! Happy upcoming holidays!
thank you so so much for your content vera, it was again really inspiring for living a (for me personally) better lifestyle 😊 i love that you speak about so many different parts of everyday life 😊
i did a 'no-buy-december' this year - bought small presents with purpose for my loved ones already in november - and i'm not regretting it 😄 i will try my best to keep up with what i've learned for me this year about a minimalist lifestyle for 2025. and i do really hope that more people will think about their buying-choices, because they do have an impact on our world!
also looking forward to watching your videos in 2025 😊 wishing you all the best from austria ❤
I went with a fancy tea kettle instead of a fancy teapot. I'd had too many instances of glass tea presses breaking and stovetop kettles boiling dry, so I bought an electric kettle and a metal travel tea press. I didn't go for the cheapest kettle either but the one I really wanted: with a round thermometer, a simple on-off switch, and a retro style. I use it several times a day now, and it's such a joy to use.
Oh my, the teapot with the little tea light takes me back to the seventies and eighties - very retro. It does look cosy, but it also introduces soot and 'fijnstof', so the thermos is likely the better option.
You're the second Dutch youtuber I've noticed that shortens "number" to "nr" in English. It reads as "near 3" not number 3 "no.3"
Great list! I wish everyone lived mindfully, then we wouldn't have climate change.
For me it's books. I have wayyyyy too many unread books. The only exception though is buying books at my city's annual book fair. It really is my happy place and it's always on my birthday so it's the only time of the year I can buy books. And if I really want to read a book that I can't find at this book fair or it's not that time of the year yet, I check the library. I did this in 2024 and I'm continuing in 2025 because I still have too many books.
Hi Vera, love the video, so much food for thought. I'm doing a no spend stationery, journaling and art supply year, I'll allow a refill, if I need one. I got carried away with this during COVID and still have so many just started and unused things, even after giving some away. It will be a low spend for household products, I've learned this from you, and we don't need anything for the house. Everything we would like this year including a holiday will be saved for. I feel we are starting the new year with a much simpler and happier outlook. Thank you so much for your very inspiring chats xxx
I agree with you Vera. With time and experience we learn to live and so to buy more consciously than impulsively. Thanks for sharing ideas. Keep up your beautiful work🌸
First? I love watching your channel. It feels like just comfortably sitting back and listening to a lovely person ( with gorgeous hair!☺️) expressing very useful and sensible thoughts. I’m an older Canadian guy. I’m in my 50th year of being a dedicated vegetarian. I’m drifting closer to veganism. So, I have one leather belt ( my only belt) that I’ve had for 20 years. It will likely break in 2025 and I won’t replace it with leather. I aspire to Henry David Thoreau’s plea to “Simplify, simplify, simplify” ( from his book “Walden”) I’m guided by the principle of Kaizen; gradual constant improvement). Your ideas constantly validate my thinking and give me things to think about. ❤️🇨🇦
I dont buy containers, but i keep glass jars and funky containers that I've emptied and pulled the labels off of to keep goods in. Clear containers are so helpful for my ADHD brain to be able to quickly assess what i actually have in my fridge or cabinets. My veggies and fruits dont go bad as often since i started keeping them more visible.
Ive made my own hair masks and stuff. You may find it a fun activity to do one afternoon to see how it goes. Not that expensive to make simple ones either.
I noticed the adorable bunny bookend in your background and wanted to tell you i think it's lovely.
I’m a medium’ist & do enjoy paper bc I like using pens & a tablet of paper
I LOVED this video. I share everything on the list. Keep up the amazing work fellow Dutchie.
Those clips of restocking containers reminde me of "mise-en-place", where TV cooks have each ingredient in its own little bowl. Mark Bittman says restaurants need that to keep track of several orders at once, but it's overkill for home cooks. I've found you can use one bowl for things that go together, for instance if it will all go into the same pan at the same time.
Um…speaking as a person with fine, thin hair, I think your hair ALWAYS looks amazing!
👋 Hej Vera and other followers 😊 I agree ofcourse with Vera , that is why I’m watching her channel as it is very close to my life style and habits 😊 I did change many things last time like : I did cancel insta and fb profiles 🎉 I’m very proud and happy of that big better step in my life . I had a huge problem with instagram but finally I did remove it and I feel really FREE. I’m watching TH-cam as my only socialmedia and it’s more than perfect 👌 greetings and Merry Christmas to all of you 🌲🎄
Good for you!! 🤗❤️🍵👍 Happy holidays to you as well!! 🎄🎄
Vera, what an amazing list! I’m definitely going to use many of your ideas while making my own “No Buy/Low Buy) list for 2025. Honestly, I don’t need anything. Other than perishables, I really do have everything I need (and want) to live contently. I also am going to try my hardest to stick to a strict budget when it comes to food and perishables. Thank you for your inspirational video❤️
I love this! :) I also like having hot tea in the winter and I do the same thing! To make it feel more "special" I made a cute quilted mug wrap out of fabric I already had at home, which I can put around my insulated travel mug to make it feel more unique and cozy (it's just a flat rectangle with a tie, so it's adjustable and I can also tie it through a mug with a handle; you put any kind of fleece or quilt batting or thermal batting or even a piece of an old sweater or sock or pot holder in between the two pieces of fabric on the outside). There are many things you can do to make things feel "special" just by using things you probably already have instead of buying new supplies.
I don't call myself a minimalist because I have many things (since it takes a lot for me to get rid of things) but I'm also not a frequent buyer and for the past several years I've been a lot more mindful about what I bring into my home; I have been trying to focus more on mending and using and repurposing and appreciating what I already have :) I also have a lifelong hobby of sewing, so I have many DIY and mending materials already, I am also trying to "shop my stash" and not grow my collection.
100% with you on so many of these things particularly the cheap websites and generative AI.
I'm not buying cheap, throw away clothes next year, i e temu, shein etc
Thank you SO MUCH for this great video! ❤❤❤
Loved your list and learning more about you. I like how you find alternatives to what you are inspired to buy but may have a similar option already.
I feel you so hard about the hair products 😅
Hahahaha 🤗
Something I didn't buy this year is Pointsettia plants. I always buy a few to decorate my front porch steps. I try to keep them alive, but I always end up putting them in the compost each year. This year I am just skipping that; it is too costly to spend money on compost!
I am doing a no buy quarter. January February & March only food to cook at home. Everything else I'm going to use all the little bits of everything. Also going to declutter those months as well
I found myself nodding my head in agreement with you on so many points!!
A. Comfy, stretchy = beautiful!
B. You have beautiful hair
C. No more stickers 😢
D. No such thing as dressing for your body type. Not because you don’t have a body type, because there is no one way to dress it
My intention in the last years is to buy less and better quality. I find that if I pay more attention and am willing to pay more money, I appreciate my purchase and use it more. And I say that I’m very good at least in achieving half of my intention… (you know which one).
Regarding ai: I’m thinking about it in a totally different way than you… I have many many thoughts, as a teacher, as a philosopher. It’s too long and maybe too complicated for the comment section. But maybe we will talk about it one day (-:
you’re the best friend every girl needs ❤
We feed birds and gray squirrels here in northeast cold Wisconsin. It can get costly but we are animal lovers❤
So wise,as usual! Many things I think like you.
For me, I don't like AI either. Also, I don't want to spend hours looking at YT videos anymore. BUT, you are definitely the only one left that I will follow with plaisir.
Instagram for me, is different because of the aquarelle artists I like to follow for their work. But, that's it.
Thank you Vera!
Everything I have seem to be from thrift stores, except my underwear, of course.
I do my New Year clean out every December and have decided not to buy anything the coming year that I don't need.
Great list! I love how practical you always are. I strive to be more like you. 😊❤️
You might like Darn Tough socks. They’re great quality and they have a lifetime guarantee. They’re so good for travel too!
Hello, thank you for your list! I protect my socks with crocs indoor. I have a pair from hot tuna that I use for almost 10 years.