This month my wonderful Church is challenging us to pledge not to consume for the entire month of February. Here is what they have to say about the whole thing...
THE AVERAGE AMERICAN SPENDS LESS THAN ONE HOUR A WEEK IN RELIGIOUS OR SPIRITUAL TIME AND MORE THAN FIVE HOURS A WEEK SHOPPING.
As we reflect on faith and economy this year, we want to explore how we can move beyond the economy of money and live out of an economy of faith. February is our designated 'Pledge Not To Consume Month' (it is the shortest month).
As we reflect on faith and economy this year, we want to explore how we can move beyond the economy of money and live out of an economy of faith. February is our designated 'Pledge Not To Consume Month' (it is the shortest month).
The two simple guidelines are as follows:
1.) Don't buy anything new except food/toiletries for the month - just the absolute essentials (gas, mortgage, bills, etc.).
2.) If you really 'need' something, is there a way you can you borrow, barter, or even buy it used?
Feel free to 'customize' your month experience: Can you refrain from eating out for a month? Can you skip the dopio mocha-foo-foo drink? What about iTunes? Books? Shoes?
Is there something you will 'need' to buy in February (Valentine's Day reminder) that you might be able to buy now, ahead of time?
Make sure to visit our Facebook page to groan, offer support or flame the church for this insanely stupid idea. Share your stories, ideas, experiences, feelings with each other.
How many times have you went to Target to get some deodorant and come out with a $5 movie, a new pair of shoes and some pop tarts? I know I have! Its so easy to buy and less easy to save.
So the Sassys are attempting to do this, however we already consumed a meal out which technically is breaking one of the suggestions. I think Jim and I will have to come up with a plan of just sharing our weekday lunch date in my office, he'll have to deal with that (he hates eating at my office). So does anyone else want to jump on this band wagon with me? I'd like to figure out how much money we save at the end of this month with not going out and not buying random junk and share it here. God knows I already have too much random junk, I don't need more.
I think it would also be a good time for the Sassys to downsize a bit and simplify. It would seem these two go hand in hand.
I'll probably pop in here periodically to update on how we're doing with this and see if anyone else has decided to join in the spending free month. But until then, happy February!!
6 comments:
I did this a couple of years ago for lent - no unnecessary spending. At first, my son was terrified that I wasn't going grocery shopping. Then, my husband laughed and said, "That includes internet shopping, too, you know."
I borrowed books from the library instead of buying, didn't throw nail polishes into the grocery cart, bought NO clothing. It was a long, but rewarding, 6 weeks.
Wow...not buying extra stuff at Target? I might hyperventilate. :0) OK...I'm being a bit exaggeratory. I think it's a wonderful idea. I may have to talk to the hubby about this one.
What a wonderful idea! SO many times I don't even think about what I'm buying. This is a great time for not buying...and some spring cleaning out! :)
That's a great challenge. :-)
I have another challenge for you in my blog, a photo challenge. Take a look!
This is very similar to something that Suze Orman is recommending for everyone. I love this pledge. We've already kind of been doing it through January, but maybe I'll try joining you in earnest (that may have to go on hold if I have to go to NYC again, because I'm often stuck getting stuff for my mom - but would that count?)
You have SUCH a cool church!
Anyone else doing this with me? Just wanted to check in. I consumed the lunch special from across the street-but I really wanted to say hi to the waitress and they gave me free milk this morning so I hope it evened out.
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