I first learned about Buy Nothing Day from Joe Domiguez and Vicki Robin in their book Your Money or Your Life. I immediately thought it was an excellent idea, and have followed the concept every year since. As time passes, I find that the craziness gets worse (or better, depending on which side of rampant consumerism you fall on). This year, even auto supply stores have national ads featuring sales on antifreeze!
Critics of BND (Buy Nothing Day) suggest that those who would buy today and choose not to will simply buy tomorrow. That may be true. After all, most sales will last the weekend.
However, I’m hoping that those who do take today’s Buy Nothing to heart will reflect on what they actually need to buy, rather than getting caught up in great deals that are completely unnecessary. After all, the easiest way to save is to simply not buy.
But, enough proselytizing… I am already way too late to save those souls determined to “save” today, so instead of going on and on, I’d like to share with you some images created to promote Buy Nothing Day in years past, including one of my own (can you guess which one?)… and ten things you might consider doing today, either instead of shopping or after you’ve worn yourself out. *smiles*
- Curl up in bed with a good book.
- Write a book – start that novel you’ve always wanted to write.
- Get out your stationery (or your email) and send a real letter to a few good friends.
- Plan out (and possibly start) create gifts you can make for friends and family.
- Have a cuddle-fest with loved ones.
- Research charities. Find one (or several) to support in 2010.
- Take time to reflect on all that you have to be thankful for. Yes, I know this is a day late… but even if you did reflect yesterday, another day certainly won’t hurt.
- Have a movie marathon, watching long-time favorite films from your collection.
- Write a blog. Start a blog. Post on Facebook. Tweet. Tell the world a bit about yourself. Make contact with other humans.
- Get a head start on your New Year’s Resolutions.
I’d love to hear your ideas for making this day about more than Black Friday sales!
Tags: Buy Nothing Day, frugal book, making purchasing decisions, Your Money or Your Life
