When we were packing for our travels, we knew we could only take what would fit in a large backpack. So, we stopped buying new things, sold some of our stuff, and put other things in storage. As we were working remotely around the world, we realized these experiences—not things—are what’s most important to us.
3. I went paleo: The paleo diet focuses on eating clean and cutting out processed foods. I found it easier to stick to the diet when I cooked for myself at home. The few times I would go out, I’d limit myself to just one drink: a glass of red wine. My health and my money were my two priorities now, not socializing over expensive dinners.
Making those changes helped me save money, which gave me a ton of confidence. For the first time, I felt in control of my spending and comfortable managing my money
Transforming from a materialist to a minimalist mindset
After I reduced my spending, it was a relief not to feel the pressure of “keeping up with the Joneses.” I realized no one cared about the brand of jeans I wore. And my friends were just as happy to split a bottle of wine in my apartment as they were to go to a trendy rooftop bar.
Not mindlessly shopping was also easier once I adopted an attitude of gratitude. Reflecting on what I already had, rather than things I wanted or what I saw on social media, was a game changer. I was grateful to have the basics: shelter, food, a stable income from my blog and my job, and a supportive partner. Everything else, like my business, extra income from casual hobbies, and the ability to travel, was just icing on the cake.
With these mindset changes, I began to build a more intentional life for myself and spend my money mindfully. I learned about investing and personal finance and turned my attention to building wealth for my future. I took all my energy that had gone toward shopping and eating out, and I put it into tracking my net worth and investing in the stock market and ETFs. And let me tell you: Taking control of your finances feels great.
How I’ve leveled up my financial confidence
One decision changed my life for the better. Here’s what I do now that I’ve kicked my shopping habit to the curb.
Invest: I started taking investing seriously. I looked at my 401(k) as a vehicle for supporting my future and I made sure my savings goals were aligned with my renewed focus on mindful living. My approach as an investor became all about sustainability and ensuring my long-term success. I’d ask myself: What can I do today that can help me 40 years from now?
