How long could you go without purchasing anything? A day? A week? A month? What about a whole year?
The trend “no-buy 2025” has taken the internet by storm since the start of the new year — the latest no-spending challenge.
In the spirit of decreasing consumerism, clutter and credit card debt, social media users are saying the solution is simply: stop shopping, the Washington Post reported.
No-buy 2025 can mean different levels of purchasing depending on the person, the Post said. People don’t have to completely abstain from shopping.
Some people have decided the challenge should mean stopping purchases in certain categories, like clothes, shoes, accessories or jewelry. Others have decided to eliminate the purchase of new makeup or skin care products.
Most people attempting the challenge are restricting nonessentials, such as books, furniture or takeout food, Forbes reported.
The no-buy trend isn’t new, but this is the first time it’s gained such traction on social media, Forbes said, which could be in response to inflation in the United States, coupled with what the publication called a “looming recession and political turmoil.”
“No-buy 2025” ties into a broader underconsumption core lifestyle, which emerged as a response to influencers promoting new product after new product, CNN Business reported.
The problem with online shopping lies in its streamlined nature, according to the Post.
What used to be accessible only in person at shopping malls now is accessible in people’s pockets via their phones. Websites remember your credit card information, delivery is free and convenient buttons urge one-click buying, the Post said.
Even if people aren’t able to completely eliminate certain purchases, Forbes said any reduction in frivolous spending can be considered a win.
Bank of America suggested ways to start the challenge, like tracking expenses so you know how much you actually spend, cooking more meals at home or canceling any recurring subscriptions you no longer use — along with setting a budget, according to Forbes.