Tip #3: Beware Beginner's Buying Syndrome

This is often what happens when we start a new activity like music, or hiking, or gardening, or reducing our disposables:

Me: I'M REALLY INTO THIS!
Me: Look at all the ACCESSORIES I can buy to support this!
Me: I want to buy all these THINGS! And I'll definitely use them!

2 months later...
Me: Look at that THING (climbing shoes/collapsible cup/10 essential oils) I got; I never use it and spent all that money!
Me: And anyway, this thing I already have in my house works just as well, only I didn't know it then.

I suffer from beginner's enthusiasm. I had to forcibly restrain myself so I wouldn't buy a collapsible cup, a reusable bamboo knife-fork-spoon set that comes with a handy baggie, reusable sandwich bags, reusable cloth napkins, the list goes on...


Tip: How to Move Forward
(avoiding auto-consumer mode)

1. Make a wishlist of all the helpful reusable things you want to buy.
2. WAIT! 2 months before buying any. Meanwhile, try to find alternatives in your house. (You probably will!)


A bit stumped? Check out these great DIY ideas!
Some easy examples:
1. Instead of new bamboo utensils + carrying case, just get the case, and put your own utensils inside.
2. Instead of buying stylish new linen bags, just use the cloth bags you have already.
3. Instead of buying a collapsible cup, just attach a carabiner to a metal water bottle.
4. Instead of buying a new reusable zippered carrying case for utensils, just use an old, small make-up bag you/your female relation probably have.

Some examples for crafty people:
1. Instead of new cloth bags with trendy designs, make a t-shirt bag!
2. Instead of buying a Topsy Turvy planter for your tomato/parsley, make your own upside-down planter with a soda bottle!
3. Instead of buying a ribbon for gifts, UPcycle a plastic bag! (Attach it with glue, not tape, and add a card suggesting your friend reuse it!)