Did you buy something today?

Did you buy something today that you didn’t need?

Oooh, tricky question.

I’m here to talk about a project I’ve been working on for the past year. It’s called Purging Purchases. Yup, you heard that right. I gave up buying things online.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: But it’s so easy and convenient! So is fast food, and we all know how that ends.

I’m not here to argue that life isn’t busy. Whatever your life looks like, you’ll probably claim you have no time. It’s the go-to excuse, and I get it. But I’m here to offer you a small hack that might just change your spending habits—and your life.

Make a list.

Yes, it’s that simple. Instead of impulsively fulfilling every wish and desire the moment it pops into your head, plan for it. Write it down, and save those purchases for the weekend or a weeknight when stores are empty.

Why I Gave Up My Amazon Prime Membership

Hear me out. I was a huge fan of Amazon. When it first came out, I was thrilled. The ease and convenience of having something delivered to your door? Amazing. Need a specific face wash? Yup, it’s there. Groceries? Check. Last-minute holiday gifts? Done, with two-day shipping. Who could argue?

But have you actually thought about your purchases—especially the impulse ones? Yeah, those. The random plastic gizmo or gadget that you just had to have.

I gave up my Prime membership by making lists. I was sick of spending $120 a year and having three packages a day show up at my door. I wasn’t considering how much I was actually spending because, let’s be honest, it’s easy to forget. And don’t even get me started on auto-ship items.

Now, I’m a lot happier. I make lists for the month of what’s needed or running low. Sometimes, I reconsider my purchases altogether. Unless I’ve sucked the last living life out of a product, I’m not replacing it. (Hello, tretinoin—you’re non-negotiable.)

I’ve also made it a point to shop locally when I can. Trust me, those onions are cheaper at your local market than at a big-box retailer. Plus, it gives me an excuse to walk somewhere, burn some calories, and consistently close my Move ring on my Apple Watch. Extra points if I bring my pup along for the adventure and new smells.

Why Your Amazon Purchases Are Doing You a Disservice

Let’s break it down.

1. The Ease of Buying:
   There was a whole news story about how TikTok and other social media platforms—combined with your smartphone—have become common places to click “Buy Now.” No getting up, no digging out your credit card—it’s already stored on your device. No need to create an account; your info is prefilled. It’s all too convenient.
2. Your Wallet:
   Is this helping your finances in the long run? Do you really need those magnetic eyelashes cleverly marketed for “ease of use”? Or that new “natural, organic, Korean-inspired beauty secret” face wash? (Love the marketing, but let’s be real—anything topical rarely penetrates deep skin layers. Skincare rant for another day.)
   Over time, those $ 30 and $40 purchases add up. A glass of wine (or three) on a Friday night might make you feel like you deserve it after a rough week with your boss. But that instant gratification comes at a cost.
3. Will You Actually Use It?:
   Have you thought about whether you’ll really use the item? Often, it’s a spur-of-the-moment decision, followed by regret. Once the item arrives, it gets tossed on a shelf or in a drawer, never to be used. Sound familiar?
   You might even have a similar item at home already. Now, you’ve committed to another. I hope your purchase is a success, but this is for those who want to take steps (pun intended) to do themselves some good.

The Solution: Make a List (Yes, Really)

I love lists. I’m a sucker for writing things down and checking them off. Here’s how to start:

1. Make a List for the Week or Month:
   Write down the things you actually need. This isn’t just groceries—it’s mouthwash, toothpaste, skincare, grooming products, etc. What do you use daily? What can’t you live without? (Shoutout to Dove bar soap—dermatologist-approved and a staple in my routine.)
2. Wait a Week (or Two):
   Hold onto that list. You’ll be surprised how many items fall off because they’re not actually needed. Found an extra refill bottle of soap? Changed the batteries on your grooming device, and it still works? Congrats—you just saved money.
3. Shop in Person:
   Instead of clicking “Buy Now,” get up and go to the store. Make it an experience. Reward yourself for sticking to the plan.

Why This Works

1. You Save Money:
   By avoiding third-party markups and impulse buys, you’re saving cash. Even $ 20 saved per month adds up to $240 a year.
2. You Move More:
   According to the medical community, being sedentary is the new smoking. Walking to the store counts as movement, and just 30 minutes a day can lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and more. https://liproti.com/2025/02/21/exercise-the-dreaded-eight-letter-word/
3. You Reduce Waste:
   Microplastics from common household items are now being found in our brains. Yup, you read that right. By buying less, you’re helping the planet—and yourself.

Final Thoughts

I urge you to consider:

• Your hard-earned paycheck.
• That Prime subscription.
• Where your products come from and who you’re supporting.
• The environment.
• Your health.
• Your habits.

Because in the end, the habits you form with quick purchases translate into something much bigger. Where else are you making quick decisions without thought?

So, make a list. Wait a week. And remember: Your best life isn’t about buying more—it’s about buying what matters.