15 Things I Will Never Buy Again – A Simplified Living Guide

In a world filled with endless consumer choices, sometimes the path to simplicity is paved with the things we choose not to buy. In this article, we’ll explore 15 things that the author has decided to remove from their shopping list permanently. While everyone’s preferences and priorities may differ, these insights can offer valuable perspective on decluttering your life and making more mindful choices.

Table of Contents

• No More Magazines
• Gadget-Free Home
• Ditching Diet Foods
• Coffee Maker Upgrade
• Candle Controversy
• Scent-Free Living
• Digital Planning
• Investing in Quality Shoes
• Say Goodbye to Bottled Water
• Seasonal Kitchen Towels
• Decor Pillows: Less is More
• Timeless Decor Choices
• Empty Wall Spaces
• No to Disposable Tableware
• E-books Over Physical Books
• Investing in Quality Skincare
• Subscription Box Skepticism
• Container Conundrum
• Greeting Cards: Less is More

No More Magazines

Magazines, once a beloved source of entertainment and information, have fallen out of favor for many. The author confesses to having a stash of them in the past, but they quickly realized the clutter they created. With digital alternatives like Netflix, Prime, HGTV, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram offering a wealth of content, the need for physical magazines diminished.

Gadget-Free Home

While gadgets can be tempting, the author has decided to steer clear of single-purpose kitchen gadgets that clutter their space. The rule is simple: if a gadget replaces a simple tool like a knife, it’s a no-go. However, they do make exceptions for gadgets that aid in tasks they can no longer perform due to arthritis, recognizing the importance of accessibility.

Ditching Diet Foods

Prepackaged diet foods may promise convenience, but the author has opted to eliminate them from their grocery list. Instead, they advocate for clean, whole ingredients and real food. While not claiming to be nutrition experts, they believe that ditching diet foods is a healthier choice in the long run.

Coffee Maker Upgrade

The author waved goodbye to Keurig and pods in favor of a coffee maker that grinds fresh coffee beans to their desired consistency. This shift not only results in better-tasting coffee but also reduces the environmental impact of single-use pods.

Candle Controversy

Candles can be delightful, but not everyone is a fan. The author confesses to not loving scented candles, preferring a scent-free home over masking odors. It’s all about personal preference when it comes to fragrances.

Scent-Free Living

Taking the scent-free preference a step further, the author avoids scented products, including essential oils. Their approach to maintaining a clean-smelling home is through good old-fashioned cleaning and fresh air.

Digital Planning

Bid farewell to physical planners! The author turned to digital planning using a tool called Notion. This shift allows for more flexibility and customization, adapting to their unique needs and simplifying life in midlife.

Investing in Quality Shoes

When it comes to shoes, quality takes precedence over quantity. The author emphasizes the importance of comfortable, supportive shoes like Vionic and FitFlop. These brands provide both style and comfort, making them a staple in their wardrobe.

Say Goodbye to Bottled Water

Disposable plastic water bottles are out of the picture for the author. They’ve embraced reusable water bottles, not only for the environmental benefits but also for the cost savings in the long run.

Seasonal Kitchen Towels

As appealing as seasonal kitchen towels may be, the author found that they quickly lose their charm after a few washes. Their preference is for practicality over aesthetics, opting for durable, non-seasonal towels.

Decor Pillows: Less is More

Decorative pillows can add charm to a living space, but the author has chosen to limit their use. Rather than constantly switching out pillows to match the season, they prefer a minimalist approach to home decor.

Timeless Decor Choices

Staying on-trend can be exhausting. The author opts for timeless decor pieces that won’t need frequent updates. By avoiding trendy decor, they maintain a consistent and pleasing look in their home.

Empty Wall Spaces

Sometimes, less is more. The author leaves empty wall spaces until they find the perfect decor piece to fill them. This approach ensures that every addition to their home has a purpose and a meaningful connection.

No to Disposable Tableware

Disposable plates, napkins, and cups are convenient but contribute to waste. The author has shifted towards reusable tableware, reducing their environmental footprint and saving money.

E-books Over Physical Books

Physical books have taken a back seat for the author due to arthritis. They now prefer e-books, with a Kindle Oasis being their go-to choice. While they appreciate the feel of a physical book, practicality wins in this case.

Investing in Quality Skincare

When it comes to skincare, quality reigns supreme for the author. They stress the importance of scrutinizing ingredients and prioritizing effective products over cheaper alternatives.

Subscription Box Skepticism

Subscription boxes may seem enticing, but the author has reservations. Their past experiences have often left them with items they don’t truly need or want. They prefer a more intentional approach to shopping.

Container Conundrum

Containers may seem like organizational saviors, but the author has had enough of them. They pledge not to buy another container until they’ve exhausted all other options. It’s all about decluttering and simplifying.

Greeting Cards: Less is More

Greeting cards can be thoughtful, but the author believes in using them sparingly. When handing someone a gift in person, they skip the card, considering it an unnecessary expense. They prioritize the sentiment behind the gift.

In a world where consumption often leads to clutter and waste, the author’s journey towards a more simplified life serves as a valuable lesson. By carefully choosing what they bring into their home and embracing quality over quantity, they have found a path to a more intentional and clutter-free existence. While their choices may not align with everyone’s preferences, they provide insight into the benefits of mindful and purposeful living. So, which of these 15 things would you consider eliminating from your life to simplify and declutter? The choice is yours.