A recent shopping-themed art journal collage
As a follow-up to Saturday's shopping foray, thought I'd share a few random principles that guide my shopping endeavors--make them a bit more mindful...
Budget: Separate from the monthly household budget Mark and
I craft, I developed this one to ensure the "personal shopping" I do gets done mindfully and responsibly (a.k.a. cash-only
purchases). I allow myself to amend my budget as needed—with my understanding I won’t
exceed the total amount budgeted for the month.
Consider "do-good shopping" as a viable option: As noted
in this (and this) past post, I patronize local,
independent merchants whenever possible (women-owned businesses, too!). I also have a penchant for saving
the planet, which is enacted via buying used, vintage, and repurposed items. Are all my purchases local, vintage, second-hand or from women-owned merchants? No. However, these days, I'm ever-mindful that these options exist, and utilize them more than ever before.
Quality over quantity: Given the style I'm drawn to, I don't need a
lot--just basic quality staple pieces--that will last for some time. Investing in quality doesn't have
to be expensive. Quality items can
be purchased second hand and/or at bargain bin prices (Check out this past post). My adherence to a budget also makes it easier to save for quality items.
Zero in: When I shop, I
generally know what I'm looking for. The only exception to this is if I
happen upon something that's on my staples wish list (a "bucket list" of items I will purchase only if the price and quality are right).
For example, last fall, I was shopping in a vintage boutique while
traveling. My mission, that day, was to search for bangle bracelets. I came
out, instead, with a black leather skirt (shown in this past post). Not a problem, though as a
black leather skirt was an item on my staples wish list. The skirt I found was
well-made, mint condition, my size and only $20 (I always hold back spare funds for these types of finds, so I was within budget...)--SOLD
(smile)!
What about you--what defines mindful shopping for you?
Would love hearing your insights!
Joy, peace, and happy Monday! T.
