How to enjoy what you have

We’re all familiar with the feeling of being overwhelmed — whether it’s thanks to frequently moving houses, or always struggling with having enough storage space where we are.

Lately, there’s been a huge focus on having fewer material possessions. While decluttering and adopting a minimalistic lifestyle can be great, it’s also important to cherish the things you do keep in your life. Here’s how to do it, and what you can expect to enjoy as a result.

Challenge yourself

We’ve all been guilty of falling into habits of convenience, which may cause us to buy unnecessary things – think an overpriced packet of snack-sized chips from the servo when you could’ve brought a snack from home.

By celebrating what you have, you can curb some of these mindless habits and perhaps even challenge yourself to create better ones. This might be making your own pasta or picking up a needle and thread to repair your own clothes.

This not only gives you a mindful pastime, but also allows you to reduce waste and save money.

Be kind to the environment

The term ‘conscious consumerism’ is growing in popularity, as pollution and waste become bigger and bigger problems. Celebrating what we already own offers a chance to consume more thoughtfully, investing only in things that’ll stand the test of the time. For example, instead of buying a new top every time you’re bored of your wardrobe, you might try mixing and matching unexpected pieces to create a new look!

Enjoy financial savings

Learning to be happy with what you have also correlates directly with financial savings. You might try to get creative with leftover ingredients instead of ordering takeaway, or organise a clothing swap with your friends instead of hitting your local Westfield. Little swaps like this encourage you to cut your spending and better appreciate what you already have.

Buying second-hand goods online is another great way to reduce your consumption and spending. Sites like Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace are full of treasures, as are local markets and op-shops.

Protecting what matters

No matter your reasons for giving conscious consumerism a go, just remember to go easy on yourself. Focus on what’s valuable to you and why, rather than putting pressure on yourself to get rid of things or never buy anything again. And when you do whittle down to your most important possessions, seek out Contents Insurance to safeguard your belongings.

Explore Apia Home and Contents Insurance

Read more:

• The pros and cons of downsizing your home
• How to set up your home office
• How to tackle a home declutter

Australian Pensioners Insurance Agency Pty Limited ABN 14 099 650 996 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before you make any decision regarding this product. The Target Market Determination is also available. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.

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