How I Went from Shopaholic to Conscious Consumer: 6 Mindset Shifts
While browsing a boutique I saw a "Consume Less, Be More" bumper sticker. I love this saying... although I did think it was a bit ironic customers had to buy the bumper sticker. This little phrase is a great point to consider.
All in all consumerism can be a good thing. Consumerism is part of what fuels our economy and creates jobs.
However, it is how we consume that can occasionally get out of hand.
Sometimes we get caught up in the materialistic lifestyle and forget to focus on who we are as people and how we can improve. Most of us are guilty of participating in impulse buys leading us to purchase junk we do not need. I know I am!
In the past I was a bit of a shopaholic and struggled to say no. But ever since I became a conscious consumer my habits have changed. I can actually walk through a mall without purchasing anything because I ask myself the tough questions and have made some meaningful mindset shifts that I’m excited to share.
6 Mindset Shifts to Shop More Responsibly
These are a few ways I worked to change my mindset and support businesses that share my values to purchase in a more meaningful way.
This post was originally written early on in my conscious consumerism journey back in 2017, but I recently updated and added a mindset shift in 2024, woohoo!
Pin these ethical shopping tips for later
Ask Yourself the Tough Questions
These are some of the tough questions I started asking myself when shopping.
Why is this shirt $5? Does this price make sense?
Based on the price do you think the people who made this product treated fairly?
Where was the garment made?
Do I really need this?
What does this purchase say about my consumer values?
Shop Small, Ethical, & Give Back Brands
I am a sucker for a good cause. Supporting a small business, sustainable brand, or fair trade artisan gets me excited to know the story behind the product.
Knowing that my purchase is supporting a small business that is bettering the world is meaningful to me. I noticed the joy in my more meaningful purchases and this really helped me figure out which purchases were worth it to me.
Responsible Purchases for Good
Being a conscious consumer is being aware of what you’re buying and shopping based on your values. Each purchase reflects your consumer values and creates demand within the industry.
For those who may have the luxury of spending, there comes a great responsibility of using purchase power wisely and demanding quality products for the greater good.
The next time you're on the verge of an impulse buy I encourage you to ask yourself, what are my consumer values and how does this purchase reflect those?
Chances are by asking yourself these questions you will encourage you to consume less. Take it a step further and ask yourself questions such as what impact does this purchase have on the planet?
Educate yourself
For me, it started when I watched The True Cost and learned about the slavery and abuse happening in the fashion industry. I didn’t want my money contributing to the suffering of others.
After watching this documentary I evaluated my purchases and started researching brands before buying.
I wanted the goods I was purchasing to stand for something good. Through conscious consumerism I've significantly reduced the amount I buy which is also reducing my carbon footprint.
Do your purchases have meaning to you or others?
Through discovering my consumer values I have noticed the products I now purchase each have a significant meaning and importance to me. One of my main consumer values is the mission of a brand and how their products effect other people.
If has a social impact element, that is a huge selling point to me. This adds another dimension to the product and encourages me to cherish and share the story.
Most of the goods I purchase now are better quality and last longer than the cutesy cheap goods I purchased before becoming a conscious consumer.
Typically the people who make socially responsible goods take pride in the quality of their products and want goods to last. I have sincerely been able to tell a difference.
Make sure your purchases support your values
Everybody has their own unique set of consumer habits. I challenge you to discover your consumer values.
Below are a few of my consumer values if you're looking for a place to get started. It can be difficult to find products that encompass all the values, but even if you just pick one to focus on you ARE making a difference!
socially responsible cause
brand transparency & knowledge
ethically made
sustainable
positive for the environment
fair treatment & payment of employees
high quality & will last
If you're looking for more resources to for conscious consumerism I encourage you to check out The Honest Consumer's ethical brand directory featuring socially responsible companies to shop, fair trade fashion, & sustainable style!
Broken down by category including ethical clothing, fair trade home decor, sustainable furniture, & more this is a great place to start!
More Ethical Shopping Guides:
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If you choose to participate in Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or any of the sales this week, I encourage you to check out these Ethical & Sustainable Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Shop ethical brands and make a difference with your purchases. By choosing ethical brands you’re buying from actual people, supporting small businesses, and empowering everyone within the supply chain.