How to Purchase with Mindfulness

Many of us own and buy things we like. That's just human nature, to some degree. Many of us like the comfort and momentary joy of purchasing material objects. The only caveat is that many times over, these objects sit and collect dust and only get used a handful of times. How do we stop the accumulation of clutter? The answer isn't quite as simple as “stop buying stuff.” Here are a few ways to start buying a little more mindfully.

Mindful Purchases

The key point to consider is mindful purchasing. This is the act of making purchases strategically with an end goal in mind. In other words, not just buying an item just for the sake of doing so.

In order to start buying more mindfully, start by taking a short break from making “fun” purchases. Take this break long enough to formulate your long-term solution and to meditate on your buying habits. It helps to take an honest moment to reflect on the role material purchasing plays in your life. Does it give you a rush or fill a momentary need that goes away as quickly as it came? Remember that buying objects can be addicting. Talk to a licensed therapist if you think you struggle with addictive shopping habits.

Take an Itinerary

First, go from room to room and get rid of any clutter. Clutter begets more clutter, so try to donate or sell anything you have that you don't need that just sits around your house.

Next, make a list of the things you know you really want. Make sure they're items you have wanted for a while, or make a list designed to keep track of how long you've wanted something. After it has been on that list for a while and you still want it, then you can give yourself permission to buy it. No matter how you keep track, keep a list of your ‘wants'.

Be Strategic

Don't just put any old thing on your list. Only put the things you really, really want on that list. You've wanted these objects for months on years. Those are the things to consider buying. Make sure when you do consider buying something, you ask yourself a few questions. Why do you want this thing? Where will it go? How often will you use it?

If you answer these questions honestly and satisfactorily, add it to your list.

When the time comes to treat yourself, buy it if you so choose.

Material buying doesn't have to be a weakness. In fact, with a little reframing and effort, it can become one of the most thought-out ways you make purchases.