In 2015 I’m challenging myself to rethink purchases by taking advantage of more cost effective solutions like borrowing, buying second hand, or just making do with what we already have. We have some hefty financial goals this year and this is just one more way for me to squeeze more from our budget.
February Update
I can honestly say that I did very little shopping (outside of groceries) in February. Maybe I’m still recovering from the Christmas shopping frenzy, but I had little desire to step into a store. I did go into a big box store two times in February. One time to buy some gift cards for two teenage nephews’ birthdays. And one time to pick up a pair of sunglasses to replace a broken pair.
My sunglasses broke in my purse and my eyes are very sensitive to the sun especially with white snow on the ground, and thankfully, I found a cute pair on clearance for $5.
I made one trip to my favorite thrift store during their dollar days sale. I found a pair of blue jeans for myself for $3 and some clothes for my daughters for $1 a piece. With spring right around the corner, I’m now on the look out for “like new” spring clothing for all of us.
Have you joined the challenge?
Instead of buying new this year, ask yourself these questions:
- Can I borrow from someone? For one-time special occasions, ask friends if you can borrow instead of buying new. My mother recently borrowed some luggage from us for a plane trip. She hasn’t flown in 20 years and probably won’t fly again for sometime, so she didn’t’ want to buy a carry-on suit case.
- Can I find what I need at a second hand or thrift store? I have found new or gently worn name brand clothing, snow gear, shoes, household stuff, and books. Start keeping a list of needs with you for your thrift store trips.
- Can I make do with something else around my house? Recently, I thought I needed a new picture frame, but realized that I had a pile of unused frames sitting in a closet that I had forgotten about. One of the frames was perfect for what I needed.
The Choose Thrift First Challenge
On the last Thursday of each month from January to November in 2015, I’ll hold a virtual meeting (a post) where we will discuss how we did for the month. I’d love to hear your solutions for your needs other than buying new.
Your main assignment is to think differently when a need or a want arises and to Choose Thrift First. I can’t wait to see how much we will save in 2015.
See you on Thursday, March 26.
Are you participating in the challenge? How did you do in February?
I did pretty well last month except that I did buy both of my boys brand new dress shoes for an upcoming wedding. I should have waiting and looked for used, but not living in the city, thrift store shopping is a challenge for me.
That being said, I will go thrift store shopping for my wedding outfit later this month. Most of my expenses for Feb. were groceries, too.
Here’s to a great March! Thanks for challenging us, Kristia!
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