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.
April Update:
I made 3 new purchases in April: I bought a pair of Teva flip flops from the clearance rack at DSW and two t-shirts at BJ’s Warehouse store. I need spring clothes and I always find the cutest name brand tops at BJ’s at decent low prices.
We also made a few new needed purchases for our home, such as a new patio umbrella and a cover for our gas grill.
Right now, we are actively looking for a new-to-us vehicle to replace the almost 14 year old car that my husband currently drives. We want something that can tow the pop-up camper that we bought last fall and we’re having some sticker shock. We’re amazed at how much used high mileage SUVs can still be, but a new vehicle is completely out of the question.
But we’re also in the market to replace our living room couch that is falling apart. I’m a bit squeamish about bringing used upholstered furniture into my house. My cousin’s mother’s husband’s uncle’s wife’s sister on Facebook brought bed bugs into her house when she bought a used sofa off of Craigslist….shudder, the story still makes me itch and I think we’ll be buying a new sofa.
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, May 28.
For more, check out all of the Choose Thrift First Challenge Monthly Meetings.
Are you participating in the challenge? How did you do in April?
