I began this challenge at the beginning of June. It was triggered by yet another clear out of my house in May, when I had the depressing thought, ‘Am I going to have to do a clear out every year for the rest of my life?!’ I’m hopeful that I’ll live a long life, so my answer was a resounding ‘NO’! I’m not a massive shopper, but these clear outs left me feeling exhausted, wasteful and somewhat greedy. I made the decision not to purchase a single item for myself that isn’t essential. No shoes, no runners, no coats, jackets, clothes, no beauty products, no sports gear. Nada!!

I’m 5 months into my challenge and not only have I succeeded, I’ve found it liberating and recharging. I enjoy throwing out bottles of empty products and socks with holes in them. OK, maybe a little weird!

Before our summer holiday in July I didn’t do my usual panic buy of unnecessary clothes, footwear and beauty products. I packed what I had from last years holiday and as usual had too much stuff. But at least I had no last minute panic buys sitting in my wardrobe in Spain, mocking me for two weeks, only to be repacked, unworn, and to become part of the next clear out. I took my teenage daughters shopping before and during our holiday. Not purchasing anything myself, left me free to enjoy the experience and just browse.

Now as the season changes I’ve certainly had a few urges to buy myself some clothes, but I’ve resisted. I have plenty of seldom, or never worn autumn and winter clothes.

Although this challenge was not money motivated, I reckon I have saved quite a lot of dough. We keep account of our spending so at six months( in 4 weeks time) I will compare to the same six months of my spending in the previous few years!

To add to this challenge, in April, I’m going to NY with my 17 year old daughter, my 18 year old niece and my sister. Thankfully New York has a lot more to offer than shopping!!!!

If anyone feels like joining me in this challenge, either for the remaining 7 months, or a shorter mini challenge, just let me know. I’d love to hear how it’s going for you.

As someone who considers themselves not a big shopper, its amazing how not shopping frees you up in so many different and unexpected ways.

I’m loving wearing my clothes. Wearing my clothes out is a good feeling!

And I’m sure I’ll enjoy replacing some of my well worn items when the time comes……but not until June 2025!!!