The Tranquil Vintessa

Okay, real talk: I’m so tired of opening TikTok and being hit with ad after ad, scrolling through my feed only to see “must-haves” from TikTok Shop that I don’t even want. Somehow, I go in to check out funny videos, and suddenly, I’m deep-diving into reviews of a blender I don’t need or a skincare line I’ll probably use once. It’s exhausting and feels like I’m always being told to buy, buy, buy.

So, this year, I’m setting a New Year’s resolution to consume less and break free from this constant pressure to shop. If you’re feeling the same way, here’s the game plan.

1. First Things First: Take a Social Media Detox

• Unfollow Some Influencers: Start with the accounts that always seem to be pushing products. Think about who genuinely inspires you vs. who’s just making you feel like you need more stuff. Clearing out your feed can make a big difference in resisting those “gotta-have-it” vibes.

• Limit Time on Shopping Traps: TikTok Shop has become a black hole for anyone who wants to buy less. Set app time limits or just take breaks from apps that trigger your impulse buying. Instead, swap them out with something that makes you feel genuinely good or productive, like a reading app or a podcast.

2. Get Real About Why You’re Buying Things

• Are You Bored or Actually Needing Something?: Sometimes I realize I’m scrolling and buying just because I’m bored, stressed, or looking for a little pick-me-up. When you feel that urge to browse or shop, try doing something else for a few minutes—take a walk, message a friend, or just get up and move. It’s surprising how often the urge to buy fades away when you’re distracted.

• Set Personal Limits: Make a list of things you really need versus things that are just “nice-to-haves.” You could even create a rule for yourself: No new purchases unless they’re on the list or have a genuine purpose (like replacing a worn-out item).

3. Challenge Yourself to a “No-Buy” Month (Or a “Low-Buy” Year)

• One Month, No Shopping: Pick a month where you won’t buy anything except essentials. It’s like a reset for your brain! After that, if you do want to buy something, give it a little thought before jumping in—why not wait 24 hours before making a decision?

• Low-Buy Year for Bigger Goals: If you’re up for a real challenge, set a spending cap for non-essential items. It helps to set aside the money you would’ve spent on “extras” and watch it add up toward something meaningful, like a trip, a hobby, or even just a cushion in your savings.

4. Rediscover What You Already Have

• Do a Closet or Pantry Clean-Out: Spend some time going through your stuff—you might find items you forgot you had or clothes you love but haven’t worn in ages. For me, organizing what I already own reminds me that I actually have enough, and it takes away some of that need to buy more.

• DIY and Get Creative: If you’re feeling the urge to add something new to your space or wardrobe, see if you can get creative with what you already have. DIY projects, repurposing items, or even reorganizing can give you a refreshed feeling without spending a dime.

5. Stay Mindful and Enjoy the Little Wins

• Track Your Progress: Write down every purchase, even the little ones, to see where your money is going. It can be eye-opening, and you’ll feel so much better seeing your spending decrease each month.

• Celebrate Your “Non-Buy” Wins: Every time you resist buying something, give yourself a little pat on the back! Treat yourself in non-material ways—spend time with friends, cook a new recipe, or enjoy a night in with a movie.

This New Year, I’m committing to stop falling for every flashy product TikTok throws my way. The goal is to feel less pressured to constantly consume and more connected to the things that genuinely matter. Here’s to a year of less clutter, less spending, and more peace.