I have challenged myself to live on 200 dollars a month, and it worked I I don't buy anything anymore unless it's food from the supermarket nothing frivolous I live like it's 1956😂now Im done being the "consumer"....
So true! I just bought myself a new bike 2 weeks ago - started saving for it when I bought the previous bike in 2016. Walked into the store and paid for it on my PC Mastercard - got the points so I can get some free groceries - came home and paid the card off since I had the money there saved and waiting. Sold my old bike 3 days later for 50% of what I paid for it back in 2016. Now this amount goes into my new bike fund! Yay!
why do you need to keep buying bikes. a good one well maintained can easily last 30 years. Unless it is for extra performance needed in sports cycling.
@@phililpb Hey there - I do get your point but for me the choice was easy - I bought an e-bike and sold my old acoustic one. I'm 60 years old and like to keep up with my husband and other fast riders and I like to ride long rides of 100km or more. I average 300KM a week now with the e-bike so totally worth it. No more struggles for me and having arguments about how long to ride and drafting of his wheel all the time etc.... a new bike = a marriage saved!LOL
I brought my first cell phone in September and only use it for taking pictures. I don't have a bill each month. Iv got a desk phone iv had for over 30 yrs, with a recorder still works fine. Society just wants you to spend and spend, by the time you get the bill, what ever you brought is in the garbage.
Before I buy anything for the house I evaluate if I have something I can use without buying something new. I’m doing much better not impulsive buying because of it. I’m learning to make due with what I already have. It’s very refreshing and saves my wallet.
Right On! My biggest weakness is Dollarama and other Dollar Type Stores and Amazon. Since October I've wanted to buy things from Amazon. They are so popular in my neighborhood in the sense that alot of the time I see The Van coming to deliver products. I can't because it's not in my Budget but I'm proud of myself and the fact that I didn't buy it. I'm a firm believer in "Cash On The Bucket". It will be there when I can't afford it. Also Cars are great but are very expensive to keep. I paid my Car off in March 2022 after five years but it was such a high but I still pay monthly insurance that is debited as well as registration.
And it kinda becomes like a fun game. Seeing how creative you can get with what you already have! An example of mine is using a wire basket and cable ties to make a bike basket instead of buying one 😅 it’s lasted over a year and going strong!
I would not go without my air fryer. Best thing I've ever bought for an appliance. Saves a lot of electricity vs the oven especially on hot days saves the air conditioner from running.
I've just discovered your channel and I like it. Last February I decided I wouldn't spend money on anything for the rest of 2023 except food and if something wore out. Last week something in my head shifted and I stopped wanting new stuff. Feels good.
I'm a little more old school with purchases over $100. I still use the Ben Franklin Close method of drawing a line down the middle of a sheet of paper. On the left goes all things you consider good about it and on the right everything that is bad or could go wrong. It becomes apparent very quickly which way to go. I never charge anything that is perishable like food, drink, a night out etc. You get the bill a month later and all that crap is just a distant memory. I buy clothes that are classic design and sturdy. If they can't be worn for years, then they are worthless. I buy my summer clothes in winter and winter clothes in summer. I don't lend more than $20 to anybody, regardless. My phone is an android that is 5 years old now. I don't worry about anyone stealing it. My phone plan is Mint. I pay $70 every three months. The only time I would consider buying something on credit is when they offer interest free payments over a 12 month term and then I auto pay those.
Thanks for this great video. I had a real epiphany watching this. I have been buying things for my fantacy self and until watching this I did not even realise I was doing it. I can also see why i was doing this. It was very much a coping mechanism for depresion so im not going to beat myself up over it. But now I am aware of it I can avoid this in the future.
If it's an unique item, I ask myself the following question in addition to all these: If it's still here the next time I'm in the store, then it's mine. It actually takes me a LONG time to make purchasing decisions, almost to a fault. The last big purchase I made was a vacuum and I spent nearly two weeks of heavy research and cross-pricing and watching so many reviews after wanting/needing a new vacuum for three years. I am on ODSP, my income is exceptionally low so my budget was under $200 CAD. But it was something I needed because my temporary suck stick was causing so much distress. As someone who lives with moderately-severe chronic pain, bending over to clear a clogged 'vacuum' every minute or so was way more than my body could endure. So, I got the best my budget would allow and it outperforms every vacuum I've ever had in the past.
Getting there is more than half the fun. Example: I wanted a new spinning wheel. I could have gone out and bought it but instead I saved from each paycheck for a year specifically for this. Was a joy to walk in and buy. Thinking about the future each payday made me really consider if this was what I needed/wanted.
8:45 or so, I just replaced about a 5 year old iPhone this past year. A 6 generation model 😂 I literally ran it to the point where it couldn’t get any more software updates! And I bought the $500 phone, not the top tier $1400 thing, for my replacement
Nicole, I just discovered you, and as a young person, I am astonished by your sensible videos. I'm an old man who fortunately was raised by sensible parents who grew up living thru the great depression (they were teenagers). But even though they live through it, they were balanced in raising their children. Thanks for educating your generation.👍👍👍
Another question to ask yourself - especially if you're the kind of person who has a hard time getting rid of things: "is this item going to be something I'll have to declutter one day?" .
I think somewhere I recall someone commented: "Will your heirs (family members) have to declutter for you". That is, one other question you should have is: "What arrangements will I need to make before or at the purchase's end of life?" And of course don't neglect the imposition it's ongoing costs will entail for you - repairs, supplies and subscriptions (those are all a form of clutter themself - more decisions to make, scheduling appointments and visits and receiving deliveries).
Hi! Late to the game here, but I will say this about extended warranties... I bought one THROUGH THE MANUFACTURER after reading the fine print and asking a million questions. I have an Indian motorcycle, the extended warranty was roughly $1200 for 3 more years. A year into that ext. warranty I had a catastrophic engine/transmission failure that would've been $6k+ out of pocket. Minus the ext. warranty cost and a $50 deductible, I consider myself lucky. I'm glad i didn't have to pony up ab extra $4750. So that might be the exception to the rule. Boy am I glad i did that. So I'll agree with you up to maybe 95% otherwise on the warranty thing. Ask tons of questions and get guarantees in writing. Like legal guarantees. Love your channel, new viewer here, keep it up, kid!
I was thinking about cancelling Prime for a while because while I don't have a TON of stuff, I have a very small home, and a spending issue. After listening to many of your vids, I decided to cancel! You are totally right. Even if I don't have a car, I can be intentional to make sure(for example) that I don't run out of pet food or allergy meds, even if it takes longer to deliver it.
After jumping on the decluttering wagon and decluttering tons of stuff, I became more conscious about what I buy. The question "Where Would I put it" really resonates with me. Why buy more junk and waste money, only having to get rid of it later. One other valuable point you have made in another of your videos is spending a little more for better quality items making sure they last longer and that the price per use/wear justifies the purchase.
Well said Nicole. The first question is THE most important that so so many people disregard 🤷♀ Also, robot vacuums are incredible. A product that can give me more of my time back easily pays for itself.
I'm frugal by nature however I used to buy lot of stuff just because it was cheap. I used to go to many yard sales every weekend for years. Now I go to a few rummage sales a year and only buy what I know I will use. The thrill has gone! It helps with a cluttered house too.
What I like about Nicole, and what attracted me to her channel is her common sense, which unfortunately has gone by the wayside in most of our culture. Common sense is the most coveted virtue because it will guide you through your life, and provide the most peace of mind. But common sense has gotten a bad rap...it's " common"...it's not considered " high " thinking...it's "plebian"...and this is where the God's of this world have programed most minds. It's why this channel is refreshing. It's a coming back to basic common sense in a world that has gone psychotic. Thank you Nicole for being a wayshower.
yes you're exactly correct about people being impatient they rather pay up for food because it will be ready within 15-20 min rather than cook for themselves. consumerism is a sickness that we all fall for but you have to quickly snap out of it or you'll be broke pretty quick! Luckily I grew up with parents that made every dollar stretch and I learned frugality at an early age which I have passed down to my kids. Keep your content going you're really on the right track! Thanks for the tips.
I don't accept any of the updates on my phone and it never seems to slow down! Having said that I still use my laptop for the majority of things rather than my phone!
I used to be a Spontaneous Buyer, and so far this year of 2023, I’ve been pretty good at simplifying my life. I am praying it stays this way and not have the urge to buy more stuff that I don’t need. Thanks so much for sharing all your knowledge to us. 🙏🏽
Very useful and sensible questions. At the end of the day, we mostly buy things what we want rather than need. I'm glad I understood that 99% of the time I'd rather save my money instead of wasting it on a low quality knickknack. Great video, as always. Thanks Nicole
I’m so great full to have found your wonderful channel. Thank you for taking time out of your day for this incredible content. You’re an amazing young woman!
Im with you! Spending two years income on a car or even hundreds on a phone is just crazy. My Android phone does everything an Iphone does without the cost (Mine is 4 years old now and still going strong) and my 1999 Jeep Liberty (that cost $6500 and I paid cash for it) gets me to the same destinations as the expensive car.
I’m way more intentional then I used to be, as I get older I’m finding I’d rather have a secure future then instant gratification now, I used to be a shopaholic but I’m not anymore, I see value in what I have more then new things. I’m so glad I’ve changed my mindset.
Thank you for the reminders ! Honestly I have been a impulsive spender many times , I am working hard to really change that around and rethinking about my habits ... I have asked myself many times the questions you just asked ... Usually donating a lot of items to charity because I don't like clutter or hoarding ... I don't use credit but I have spent too much on things that are only useful for a little while trying to please my perfect image and the best crafter !!! For the last month I have had to really change my habits because I have a health issue which has made my ability to walk very hard, ... so I am home sitting or in bed most of the time doing the minimum and only necessary ...making many things in my home obsolete and not necessary !!! I had to stop working so I have to depend only on my pension which is only a third of what I was earning ... I can survive with what I have and get ... But I have to let go of my shopping sprees!!! No more " gold rushes " Honestly your focus and thoughts help me to concentrate on reality !!!
In one incarnation of myself I was a technical equipment early adopter (before the internet had achieved critical mass liftoff as a informing resource and information required you to buy thick computer magazines and doorstop computer books) who bought things to test for feasibility (cheapo work wouldn't fund test purchases so I funded them for that purpose myself) often the purchase proved useless or barely minimal in advantage and that just became one more purchase to regret. Now almost any purchase can be so sufficiently research that invariably a sensible regret free determination can be made beforehand and online shopping can be retracted in many cases using the cancel transaction button after most costs are determined. The newer problem now is the segue by more companies to subscription models or what amount to the same.
I went from being an impulsive buyer to buying almost nothing....was just time i grew the f up, I do have an expensive truck payment (low rate short term) I use for as a business writeoff working 7 days a week, pay bills, and save the rest.... Never been a real materialistic person but hobbies were different story... You know when you shouldnt be buying something😂 That lil voice kicks in and all the justifications start.... If you do what you always done you get what you always got
I think I am reasonable enough when it comes to new purchases, aside from one area - skincare. Now and then I hear of sth new that I want to try, hoping that I finally found a magical cure that will dramatically improve my oily skin with pores :) And 9 out of 10 new products end up in trash. Lately I tried some products with retinol, and even after 3,5 months of use they still irritated my skin terribly, so I just had to stop using them. I definitely should get better at asking myself the “why” question and stop waiting for miracles :)
It's been easy for me in the past to be focused on the short-term enjoyment of buying things, especially when my mental health was suffering because I didn't allow myself to be who I really was. So probably similar to that fantasy self, but an element of trying to force myself into an identity that deep down wasn't right. Now that I feel safe in being myself, it's still taken time to unlearn unhelpful buying habits. These kinds of questions really do help me slow down and think about whether I should buy the thing or not; the other side has been finding helpful things that replace the way I tried to cope before to get the feelings of happiness I want, ideally things that are more long-lasting than that short-term gain. Some days are easier than others. Thanks for this video!
These are great questions! I try to think about and determine if its a need vs. want, do I really need an air fryer? I use my crockpot a lot because I work full time and take care of my mom so I need dinner ready when I get home. I don't own an instapot, air fryer etc one because I can't afford extra things, two I'm not sure how often they would get used and I hate clutter.
@@AccordingtoNicole A psychic read by myself you have close knit friends in a tight circle who do illegal things but have yet to get caught. Don't let them pull you into what they're doing you'll end up in a lot of trouble. Do they do drugs/sell drugs? One of them might OD someone you know very well. Death or a very bad accident is all around people you know someone about your age maybe a few years younger someone female.
I resonate with bulky exercise machines winding up as clothes racks. Only that my indoor gym bike ended up as a hanger for my handbags, and the bike seat a semi permanent home for my foldable yoga mat😅. I used to be a really spontaneous spender, and it still shows through at times even after I've been practising intentional spending. I love trying out new things that are aesthetic, which usually don't turn out to be my next favourite. I compromise by selling secondhand, but I don't always get buyers or sell high enough to recoup my initial spend.
Thank you so much for having a channel and I'm so glad I met you. I'm frugal and intentional, but every now and then I will make a bad purchase. I must say I like kitchen things, but I try to buy things that I need, or can afford. I do save, but I love your concept of matching what you spend and putting it in savings. I'm not a minimalist.
Only buying things if you have the money immediately available doesn't always work. Like a car to get to work when yours is too costly to repair. It would take too much money on uber rides until you can afford A used car. And public transportation doesn't always get you from your house to work. There may be other things you really need tt
I had hard time saving money . I tried and failed over and over ,its not that iam poor or i dont own a home , but still i need to accomplish loads of things n i basically at time going from paycheck to paycheck ,i am listening to your vlogs now on a regular basis and i think they are really helpful.I would like you to made more videos every month
The actual me drinks two cups of coffee in the morning, does yoga on The Mirror (my splurge) before work, does cardio in the afternoon on The Mirror, and has a glass of champagne before bed. It be what it be. At least The Mirror doesn’t take up space like Bow Flex or Peloton.
@@gingerstrait836 I keep a fitness journal and some days I throw in some kettle bell, Tai Chi, or Latin dance classes for bonus. Since it’s Sunday, I did advanced vinyasa for 30 min after my first cup of coffee. Advanced Vinyasa is fun they said. Do it, they said. I was like, dying and fell over! Boom.
Very good advices. I too am like you. I had been using my iPhone 6+ for 5 or more years and the only reason I decided to change was because I had dropped mine about 15 times and it's beginning to show in certain functions not working. I bought that phone because my iPhone 4S was stolen. Anyhow, just my luck, last October a relative offered me his iPhone 12 (it's too old for him. He needs an iPhone 14) for only $300! It has 256 GB for storage. This phone will last me forever until it's stolen or broken. Changing to a new phone just because it's the latest is an absolute waste of money.
it will if you cook everything in the air fryer. they use about half the electricity but you have to watch out because if you have a bigger more powerful air fryer they use more. it also totally depends on your household. if you are trying to cook for a family, you're probably not going to be able to exclusively use the air fryer. I have a gas oven (not my preference, I rent) so that changes the calculation somewhat as well.
If I want something in particular then first is going to Kijiji or Marketplace for a good look, one never know that others just want that thing gone for one reason or another. Price and quality is big for me!
I love asking cost per use on clothing. I buy mostly used clothing (I know you don't like to do that) and I also don't care about what is in style, so I often wear something for a long time.
I always think about the cost per use rule. I've got my current phone in 2018. It was brand new but I didn't buy from a store. A lady got as a present and didn't want because she already had another phone she liked more and sold me half price from what I would pay at a store. Approaching 5 years of use now I technically paid £60/year or £5 a month for it 😁
Ever since covid hit and the lock downs followed, I've become much more minimalist and analytical when purchasing anything. I've even gone minimalist in my eating habits, i.e. staying away from processed and microwaved foods, just going whole foods and life has been better and less cluttered since. It's good advice for anyone, rich or poor, to analyze spending. Great video once again, Nicole!
The thing I always have to check myself when buying is stuff to make my chores 'easier.' As if that gadget is going to make me want to do the laundry more or wash the dishes more. I figured out my joy is in the scent of things. I don't snap to it to do the laundry with a new gadget, but I will if I love the smell. So I just make sure all my cleaning supplies smell good, which now consists of pine sol diluted solution for cleaning and a good smelling detergent. Super cheap and super easy. 😆 It's the simple things. For some reason, if things smell good, my brain wants to keep them neat and clean.
My first cousin's son will end up a billionaire when her husband's father dies of old age. He's an only child. They named him after my middle name Andrew. He looks like the Gerber baby on tv from yesteryear.
I definitely consider myself to be a mindful spender for a plethora of reasons- to save money for financial independence, to reduce clutter, to be mindful of my carbon footprint on this planet, and to be a unique individual who isn’t swayed by the whole “keeping up with the jones’s” mentality. being mindful of my spending allows me to live a more intentional life, which is something that has brought me immense peace and freedom on so many levels. but i’m not perfect seeing as though I impulse purchased a $10 chapstick on amazon, while I was supposed to be purchasing my dog’s food. so there’s that. definitely not perfect, but I’d like to think that by reducing my spending, I’m making my life easier and harming the planet less. :)
Mostly Intentional spender. Rarely spontaneous. 😂 (the spontaneous are on clothes/shoes/bag) I’m 26. I try not to spend money on the look. But sometimes I just want to dress up, feel better. Don’t want to feel like I don’t know how to dress up myself, like a high school kid, especially when going out with friends. How did you get over these feelings? Thank you so much for your content though. It made me feel less alone in this capitalism world as a young adult.❤
Anyone else struggle with feeling the need to buy replacements for their favorites? After watching this video I removed the 2 track suits that I had in my cart because I already have 1 and it’s brand new so why the hell does my brain default to thinking I need two more “just in case.” I also removed a pair of earrings that I wanted because the other pair I have is so great that I need a pair in a different pattern. I’m still a work in progress but these questions are super helpful.
Yes! I do this all the time. I have doubles of a lot of my favorite jewelry, shirts, pens, everything lol I think it’s just fear of not being able to find it again so get it now. Or sometimes it takes so long to find that “perfect” item so when you do you want to have a backup one. But looking back, I find I have wasted so much money doing this as styles change, we change (might not like the same patterns 3 years from now) or I just never end up using the backup item. You are not alone! Goodjob removing stuff from your cart lol 🎉❤
It would be good to hear about your experience buying a house. To do that with a 100k deposit sounds still difficult as banks dont lend the rest easily when people have a self employed gig and dont necessarily make that much.
A brilliant list! I've always done this kinda thing but I've looked at it from the perspective of : Will this give me more work? Is this thing gonna need cleaning, dusting, moving -is there an ongoing expense involved - does it need filling (cars,children,dogs, pot plants = petrol (gas ), food and clothes and books etc, food and vets bills,repotting and fertilizer). It's not being callous - it's showing love and care. Can I maintain this X in a proper manner? Otherwise I shouldn't have/get/purchase this. It's why I only had 2 children and currently don't have a dog. (Though dog comming soon - yea!!!)
I talk the same stuff for year's and year's..I'm not a sucker like everyone. and I always know that someday I'm gonna need good cash for a big bill or something and by not wasting my paycheck, it really adds up in my accounts..to cover anything ..or emergency stuff ..like rent a car ect..or to put something on credit or debit but pay it off fast..I want no credit card owings..I don't care what they say about credit score that's all bull...and enjoy doing cheap stuff like learning a new language or an I strument...seriously..or reading a good book ..or watching jeopardy..!!! then going to bed ..early ..eating healthy..really .change your lifestyle.
Girl, you are great but amazon Prime is also fantastic. Free unlimited delivery of general items, some free music and movies, and now for a tennis fan I get to watch live grand slam and other tournaments from anywhere by paying a bit extra.
@@rosieposie9564 I agree. Just like Nicole said, you save on things that arent important to you, so that you are able to enjoy/pay for things that are. So we pay for AMZ Prime for TV and bought a 2nd hand Fire Stick, which is the cheapest type of live TV (besides local channels which suck) I could find. We would have to pay for some sort of service for TV, so at least we also get music, movies and free 2 day shipping as part of the deal. And most importantly, we actually use them all. I can also download movies onto my laptop to watch when traveling in the car or on a plane. For us, its a great value.
Sometimes buying a little something brings me joy. I don't live a luxurious life, and I'm definitely not trying to impress anyone. That being said, I know that I live above my means. My goals this year are to pay off my credit card and save money (directly deposited into my savings account) I'm currently looking for a part time job to supplement my income. Edit: I guess I'd say that I'm more of a spontaneous spender. I have Amazon Prime.
I agree with little somethings. I bought a pack of Nike socks from Dick’s with a $10 coupon and it sparked lots of joy. My boots feel better with the thicker socks
You are right...I see RUclipsrs having Drew Barrymore appliances and I think I need them. No I do not!!! My girlfriend and I go to home goods and most everything in my cart I put back. Yay for me.
my phone never slows down and i keep it more than 3 years. maybe thats an iphone thing. i have use cases for my smartphone, tablet, and pc but others wont share all these use cases.
I have challenged myself to live on 200 dollars a month, and it worked I I don't buy anything anymore unless it's food from the supermarket nothing frivolous I live like it's 1956😂now Im done being the "consumer"....
Dayum !
So true! I just bought myself a new bike 2 weeks ago - started saving for it when I bought the previous bike in 2016. Walked into the store and paid for it on my PC Mastercard - got the points so I can get some free groceries - came home and paid the card off since I had the money there saved and waiting. Sold my old bike 3 days later for 50% of what I paid for it back in 2016. Now this amount goes into my new bike fund! Yay!
That’s exactly what I would do! 🙌🏼
Excellent!
why do you need to keep buying bikes. a good one well maintained can easily last 30 years. Unless it is for extra performance needed in sports cycling.
@@phililpb Hey there - I do get your point but for me the choice was easy - I bought an e-bike and sold my old acoustic one. I'm 60 years old and like to keep up with my husband and other fast riders and I like to ride long rides of 100km or more. I average 300KM a week now with the e-bike so totally worth it. No more struggles for me and having arguments about how long to ride and drafting of his wheel all the time etc.... a new bike = a marriage saved!LOL
I brought my first cell phone in September and only use it for taking pictures. I don't have a bill each month. Iv got a desk phone iv had for over 30 yrs, with a recorder still works fine. Society just wants you to spend and spend, by the time you get the bill, what ever you brought is in the garbage.
Darn.,. I am more of an impulse buyer. I need to keep your video nearby and watch it .. and watch it... and watch it again!
My real and fantasy self approves of this channel.
im all about the air fryer and waffle maker. i got too much stuff but i use both of those
How did you become so wise at such a young age? You ask great questions. I really admire your straight forward and to-the-point videos!
I get this comment a lot, and I know it’s a compliment so I appreciate it… but it makes me wonder how young people think I am?!
@@AccordingtoNicole I'm not good at guessing ages but my guess would be that you're 31 years old (or should I say young)!
I am 56 so, 30 is young. However, you look 24-25. Great channel. I watched almost all of yr content.
Before I buy anything for the house I evaluate if I have something I can use without buying something new. I’m doing much better not impulsive buying because of it. I’m learning to make due with what I already have. It’s very refreshing and saves my wallet.
Right On! My biggest weakness is Dollarama and other Dollar Type Stores and Amazon. Since October I've wanted to buy things from Amazon. They are so popular in my neighborhood in the sense that alot of the time I see The Van coming to deliver products. I can't because it's not in my Budget but I'm proud of myself and the fact that I didn't buy it. I'm a firm believer in "Cash On The Bucket". It will be there when I can't afford it. Also Cars are great but are very expensive to keep. I paid my Car off in March 2022 after five years but it was such a high but I still pay monthly insurance that is debited as well as registration.
And it kinda becomes like a fun game. Seeing how creative you can get with what you already have! An example of mine is using a wire basket and cable ties to make a bike basket instead of buying one 😅 it’s lasted over a year and going strong!
I would not go without my air fryer. Best thing I've ever bought for an appliance. Saves a lot of electricity vs the oven especially on hot days saves the air conditioner from running.
Love your videos! New subscriber. Keep up the great work!!🎉
An insightful video. Thanks
I've just discovered your channel and I like it. Last February I decided I wouldn't spend money on anything for the rest of 2023 except food and if something wore out. Last week something in my head shifted and I stopped wanting new stuff. Feels good.
I'm a little more old school with purchases over $100. I still use the Ben Franklin Close method of drawing a line down the middle of a sheet of paper. On the left goes all things you consider good about it and on the right everything that is bad or could go wrong. It becomes apparent very quickly which way to go. I never charge anything that is perishable like food, drink, a night out etc. You get the bill a month later and all that crap is just a distant memory. I buy clothes that are classic design and sturdy. If they can't be worn for years, then they are worthless. I buy my summer clothes in winter and winter clothes in summer. I don't lend more than $20 to anybody, regardless. My phone is an android that is 5 years old now. I don't worry about anyone stealing it. My phone plan is Mint. I pay $70 every three months. The only time I would consider buying something on credit is when they offer interest free payments over a 12 month term and then I auto pay those.
good points to consider
Thanks for this great video. I had a real epiphany watching this. I have been buying things for my fantacy self and until watching this I did not even realise I was doing it. I can also see why i was doing this. It was very much a coping mechanism for depresion so im not going to beat myself up over it. But now I am aware of it I can avoid this in the future.
If it's an unique item, I ask myself the following question in addition to all these:
If it's still here the next time I'm in the store, then it's mine.
It actually takes me a LONG time to make purchasing decisions, almost to a fault. The last big purchase I made was a vacuum and I spent nearly two weeks of heavy research and cross-pricing and watching so many reviews after wanting/needing a new vacuum for three years. I am on ODSP, my income is exceptionally low so my budget was under $200 CAD. But it was something I needed because my temporary suck stick was causing so much distress. As someone who lives with moderately-severe chronic pain, bending over to clear a clogged 'vacuum' every minute or so was way more than my body could endure. So, I got the best my budget would allow and it outperforms every vacuum I've ever had in the past.
Getting there is more than half the fun. Example: I wanted a new spinning wheel. I could have gone out and bought it but instead I saved from each paycheck for a year specifically for this. Was a joy to walk in and buy. Thinking about the future each payday made me really consider if this was what I needed/wanted.
Yes I do this too, save up until I can buy it
Can't stop watching you're videos 🤗😇 allot of love sending you❤
8:45 or so, I just replaced about a 5 year old iPhone this past year. A 6 generation model 😂 I literally ran it to the point where it couldn’t get any more software updates!
And I bought the $500 phone, not the top tier $1400 thing, for my replacement
Nicole, I just discovered you, and as a young person, I am astonished by your sensible videos. I'm an old man who fortunately was raised by sensible parents who grew up living thru the great depression (they were teenagers). But even though they live through it, they were balanced in raising their children. Thanks for educating your generation.👍👍👍
This girl definitly know what life is
Another question to ask yourself - especially if you're the kind of person who has a hard time getting rid of things: "is this item going to be something I'll have to declutter one day?" .
I think somewhere I recall someone commented: "Will your heirs (family members) have to declutter for you". That is, one other question you should have is: "What arrangements will I need to make before or at the purchase's end of life?" And of course don't neglect the imposition it's ongoing costs will entail for you - repairs, supplies and subscriptions (those are all a form of clutter themself - more decisions to make, scheduling appointments and visits and receiving deliveries).
Hi! Late to the game here, but I will say this about extended warranties... I bought one THROUGH THE MANUFACTURER after reading the fine print and asking a million questions. I have an Indian motorcycle, the extended warranty was roughly $1200 for 3 more years. A year into that ext. warranty I had a catastrophic engine/transmission failure that would've been $6k+ out of pocket. Minus the ext. warranty cost and a $50 deductible, I consider myself lucky. I'm glad i didn't have to pony up ab extra $4750. So that might be the exception to the rule. Boy am I glad i did that. So I'll agree with you up to maybe 95% otherwise on the warranty thing. Ask tons of questions and get guarantees in writing. Like legal guarantees. Love your channel, new viewer here, keep it up, kid!
I was thinking about cancelling Prime for a while because while I don't have a TON of stuff, I have a very small home, and a spending issue. After listening to many of your vids, I decided to cancel! You are totally right. Even if I don't have a car, I can be intentional to make sure(for example) that I don't run out of pet food or allergy meds, even if it takes longer to deliver it.
Every time Bezos loses $14 my heart skips a beat.
After jumping on the decluttering wagon and decluttering tons of stuff, I became more conscious about what I buy. The question "Where Would I put it" really resonates with me. Why buy more junk and waste money, only having to get rid of it later. One other valuable point you have made in another of your videos is spending a little more for better quality items making sure they last longer and that the price per use/wear justifies the purchase.
Well said Nicole. The first question is THE most important that so so many people disregard 🤷♀
Also, robot vacuums are incredible. A product that can give me more of my time back easily pays for itself.
Especially with a shedding dog, it’s a must have.
@@AccordingtoNicole omg yes. We have 2 dogs and 2 cats. Literally have to vacuum every day if we want clean floors.
I enjoy starting my week with your new videos! Thank you.
You are so welcome!
I'm frugal by nature however I used to buy lot of stuff just because it was cheap. I used to go to many yard sales every weekend for years. Now I go to a few rummage sales a year and only buy what I know I will use. The thrill has gone! It helps with a cluttered house too.
What I like about Nicole, and what attracted me to her channel is her common sense, which unfortunately has gone by the wayside in most of our culture. Common sense is the most coveted virtue because it will guide you through your life, and provide the most peace of mind. But common sense has gotten a bad rap...it's " common"...it's not considered " high " thinking...it's "plebian"...and this is where the God's of this world have programed most minds. It's why this channel is refreshing. It's a coming back to basic common sense in a world that has gone psychotic. Thank you Nicole for being a wayshower.
Love this .
Wow great video a lot of amazing information. Thanks for sharing!
yes you're exactly correct about people being impatient they rather pay up for food because it will be ready within 15-20 min rather than cook for themselves. consumerism is a sickness that we all fall for but you have to quickly snap out of it or you'll be broke pretty quick! Luckily I grew up with parents that made every dollar stretch and I learned frugality at an early age which I have passed down to my kids. Keep your content going you're really on the right track! Thanks for the tips.
I don't accept any of the updates on my phone and it never seems to slow down! Having said that I still use my laptop for the majority of things rather than my phone!
Definitely a spontaneous spender. Working on delayed gratification. Started tracking our spending this year. It is helping.
You got this!
Excellent! You don't know where every penny goes until to write it down for a period of time.
I used to be a Spontaneous Buyer, and so far this year of 2023, I’ve been pretty good at simplifying my life.
I am praying it stays this way and not have the urge to buy more stuff that I don’t need.
Thanks so much for sharing all your knowledge to us. 🙏🏽
Very useful and sensible questions. At the end of the day, we mostly buy things what we want rather than need. I'm glad I understood that 99% of the time I'd rather save my money instead of wasting it on a low quality knickknack. Great video, as always. Thanks Nicole
I’m so great full to have found your wonderful channel. Thank you for taking time out of your day for this incredible content. You’re an amazing young woman!
Thanks for watching!
Im with you! Spending two years income on a car or even hundreds on a phone is just crazy. My Android phone does everything an Iphone does without the cost (Mine is 4 years old now and still going strong) and my 1999 Jeep Liberty (that cost $6500 and I paid cash for it) gets me to the same destinations as the expensive car.
I’m way more intentional then I used to be, as I get older I’m finding I’d rather have a secure future then instant gratification now, I used to be a shopaholic but I’m not anymore, I see value in what I have more then new things. I’m so glad I’ve changed my mindset.
Thank you for the reminders !
Honestly I have been a impulsive spender many times , I am working hard to really change that around and rethinking about my habits ... I have asked myself many times the questions you just asked ... Usually donating a lot of items to charity because I don't like clutter or hoarding ... I don't use credit but I have spent too much on things that are only useful for a little while trying to please my perfect image and the best crafter !!! For the last month I have had to really change my habits because I have a health issue which has made my ability to walk very hard, ... so I am home sitting or in bed most of the time doing the minimum and only necessary ...making many things in my home obsolete and not necessary !!! I had to stop working so I have to depend only on my pension which is only a third of what I was earning ... I can survive with what I have and get ... But I have to let go of my shopping sprees!!! No more " gold rushes "
Honestly your focus and thoughts help me to concentrate on reality !!!
In one incarnation of myself I was a technical equipment early adopter (before the internet had achieved critical mass liftoff as a informing resource and information required you to buy thick computer magazines and doorstop computer books) who bought things to test for feasibility (cheapo work wouldn't fund test purchases so I funded them for that purpose myself) often the purchase proved useless or barely minimal in advantage and that just became one more purchase to regret. Now almost any purchase can be so sufficiently research that invariably a sensible regret free determination can be made beforehand and online shopping can be retracted in many cases using the cancel transaction button after most costs are determined.
The newer problem now is the segue by more companies to subscription models or what amount to the same.
I went from being an impulsive buyer to buying almost nothing....was just time i grew the f up, I do have an expensive truck payment (low rate short term) I use for as a business writeoff working 7 days a week, pay bills, and save the rest....
Never been a real materialistic person but hobbies were different story...
You know when you shouldnt be buying something😂
That lil voice kicks in and all the justifications start....
If you do what you always done you get what you always got
Totally agree....I like to think about it before I buy. 😊
I would love to see you go to thrift stores in your area.
I think I am reasonable enough when it comes to new purchases, aside from one area - skincare. Now and then I hear of sth new that I want to try, hoping that I finally found a magical cure that will dramatically improve my oily skin with pores :) And 9 out of 10 new products end up in trash. Lately I tried some products with retinol, and even after 3,5 months of use they still irritated my skin terribly, so I just had to stop using them. I definitely should get better at asking myself the “why” question and stop waiting for miracles :)
I suggest going to the dermatologist. Might save you a ton in the long run!
It's been easy for me in the past to be focused on the short-term enjoyment of buying things, especially when my mental health was suffering because I didn't allow myself to be who I really was. So probably similar to that fantasy self, but an element of trying to force myself into an identity that deep down wasn't right. Now that I feel safe in being myself, it's still taken time to unlearn unhelpful buying habits. These kinds of questions really do help me slow down and think about whether I should buy the thing or not; the other side has been finding helpful things that replace the way I tried to cope before to get the feelings of happiness I want, ideally things that are more long-lasting than that short-term gain. Some days are easier than others. Thanks for this video!
You are wise beyond your years!
These are great questions! I try to think about and determine if its a need vs. want, do I really need an air fryer? I use my crockpot a lot because I work full time and take care of my mom so I need dinner ready when I get home. I don't own an instapot, air fryer etc one because I can't afford extra things, two I'm not sure how often they would get used and I hate clutter.
I discovered your channel last week and I get so many good tips on saving money! Thank you for your content!!
Thanks for watching!
@@AccordingtoNicole A psychic read by myself you have close knit friends in a tight circle who do illegal things but have yet to get caught. Don't let them pull you into what they're doing you'll end up in a lot of trouble. Do they do drugs/sell drugs? One of them might OD someone you know very well. Death or a very bad accident is all around people you know someone about your age maybe a few years younger someone female.
I resonate with bulky exercise machines winding up as clothes racks. Only that my indoor gym bike ended up as a hanger for my handbags, and the bike seat a semi permanent home for my foldable yoga mat😅. I used to be a really spontaneous spender, and it still shows through at times even after I've been practising intentional spending. I love trying out new things that are aesthetic, which usually don't turn out to be my next favourite. I compromise by selling secondhand, but I don't always get buyers or sell high enough to recoup my initial spend.
Down to earth, logical, entertaining & informative! Great job 👏🏻 Nicole!! 💕🥂
These are such good tips!! Thanks Nicole!
Thank you so much for having a channel and I'm so glad I met you. I'm frugal and intentional, but every now and then I will make a bad purchase. I must say I like kitchen things, but I try to buy things that I need, or can afford. I do save, but I love your concept of matching what you spend and putting it in savings. I'm not a minimalist.
Only buying things if you have the money immediately
available doesn't always work. Like a car to get to work when yours is too costly to repair. It would take too much money on uber rides until you can afford A used car. And public transportation doesn't always get you from your house to work.
There may be other things you really need tt
Thank you for this sensible conversation.
I had hard time saving money . I tried and failed over and over ,its not that iam poor or i dont own a home , but still i need to accomplish loads of things n i basically at time going from paycheck to paycheck ,i am listening to your vlogs now on a regular basis and i think they are really helpful.I would like you to made more videos every month
They way you put things into perspective is so relatable. 👌
The actual me drinks two cups of coffee in the morning, does yoga on The Mirror (my splurge) before work, does cardio in the afternoon on The Mirror, and has a glass of champagne before bed. It be what it be. At least The Mirror doesn’t take up space like Bow Flex or Peloton.
If you are using it twice per day, you should get the full value out of your mirror. Sounds like you are doing well!
@@gingerstrait836 I keep a fitness journal and some days I throw in some kettle bell, Tai Chi, or Latin dance classes for bonus. Since it’s Sunday, I did advanced vinyasa for 30 min after my first cup of coffee. Advanced Vinyasa is fun they said. Do it, they said. I was like, dying and fell over! Boom.
Very good advices. I too am like you. I had been using my iPhone 6+ for 5 or more years and the only reason I decided to change was because I had dropped mine about 15 times and it's beginning to show in certain functions not working. I bought that phone because my iPhone 4S was stolen. Anyhow, just my luck, last October a relative offered me his iPhone 12 (it's too old for him. He needs an iPhone 14) for only $300! It has 256 GB for storage. This phone will last me forever until it's stolen or broken. Changing to a new phone just because it's the latest is an absolute waste of money.
Thank you for the video, loving your channel!
I'm an Air Fryer Advocate. The electricity bills alone will cover the cost of the air frier over a long enough time span!
it will if you cook everything in the air fryer. they use about half the electricity but you have to watch out because if you have a bigger more powerful air fryer they use more. it also totally depends on your household. if you are trying to cook for a family, you're probably not going to be able to exclusively use the air fryer. I have a gas oven (not my preference, I rent) so that changes the calculation somewhat as well.
I love how you have your act so together and you share how that works. So glad I discovered your channel!
If I want something in particular then first is going to Kijiji or Marketplace for a good look, one never know that others just want that thing gone for one reason or another. Price and quality is big for me!
Wow. I absolutely love cost per use! brilliant metric. Thanks for sharing
I love asking cost per use on clothing. I buy mostly used clothing (I know you don't like to do that) and I also don't care about what is in style, so I often wear something for a long time.
I am so excited for your channel!!
Thank you so much for your wise pieces of advice.
I always think about the cost per use rule. I've got my current phone in 2018. It was brand new but I didn't buy from a store. A lady got as a present and didn't want because she already had another phone she liked more and sold me half price from what I would pay at a store. Approaching 5 years of use now I technically paid £60/year or £5 a month for it 😁
Ever since covid hit and the lock downs followed, I've become much more minimalist and analytical when purchasing anything. I've even gone minimalist in my eating habits, i.e. staying away from processed and microwaved foods, just going whole foods and life has been better and less cluttered since. It's good advice for anyone, rich or poor, to analyze spending. Great video once again, Nicole!
You probably feel better too!
@@pennynickels5216 absolutely! ☺️
i never realized i had a fantasy self till this video! i totally have a fantasy self haha
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Awesome ❤
extraordinary intelligence. Good work, Nicole.
The thing I always have to check myself when buying is stuff to make my chores 'easier.' As if that gadget is going to make me want to do the laundry more or wash the dishes more. I figured out my joy is in the scent of things. I don't snap to it to do the laundry with a new gadget, but I will if I love the smell. So I just make sure all my cleaning supplies smell good, which now consists of pine sol diluted solution for cleaning and a good smelling detergent. Super cheap and super easy. 😆 It's the simple things. For some reason, if things smell good, my brain wants to keep them neat and clean.
Whatever works! 😆
Very valuable reflection, thank you.
Totally intentional. I want to die with money in the bank and not outlive my money! 💚
My first cousin's son will end up a billionaire when her husband's father dies of old age. He's an only child. They named him after my middle name Andrew. He looks like the Gerber baby on tv from yesteryear.
I definitely consider myself to be a mindful spender for a plethora of reasons- to save money for financial independence, to reduce clutter, to be mindful of my carbon footprint on this planet, and to be a unique individual who isn’t swayed by the whole “keeping up with the jones’s” mentality. being mindful of my spending allows me to live a more intentional life, which is something that has brought me immense peace and freedom on so many levels. but i’m not perfect seeing as though I impulse purchased a $10 chapstick on amazon, while I was supposed to be purchasing my dog’s food. so there’s that. definitely not perfect, but I’d like to think that by reducing my spending, I’m making my life easier and harming the planet less. :)
Looooove your videos 😍 love your honesty and humour .
Mostly Intentional spender. Rarely spontaneous. 😂 (the spontaneous are on clothes/shoes/bag) I’m 26. I try not to spend money on the look. But sometimes I just want to dress up, feel better. Don’t want to feel like I don’t know how to dress up myself, like a high school kid, especially when going out with friends. How did you get over these feelings?
Thank you so much for your content though. It made me feel less alone in this capitalism world as a young adult.❤
I am learning a lot from your videos.
Fool proof rules! Thank you Nicole!
I like your attitude young lady!!!!!!!!!!
I really like thar green jacket and it really looks great on you.
Very insightful and this makes so much sence, This is so me as a minimalist i don´t need the things .... Brilliant video and topic
Anyone else struggle with feeling the need to buy replacements for their favorites? After watching this video I removed the 2 track suits that I had in my cart because I already have 1 and it’s brand new so why the hell does my brain default to thinking I need two more “just in case.” I also removed a pair of earrings that I wanted because the other pair I have is so great that I need a pair in a different pattern. I’m still a work in progress but these questions are super helpful.
Yes! I do this all the time. I have doubles of a lot of my favorite jewelry, shirts, pens, everything lol I think it’s just fear of not being able to find it again so get it now. Or sometimes it takes so long to find that “perfect” item so when you do you want to have a backup one. But looking back, I find I have wasted so much money doing this as styles change, we change (might not like the same patterns 3 years from now) or I just never end up using the backup item. You are not alone! Goodjob removing stuff from your cart lol 🎉❤
It would be good to hear about your experience buying a house. To do that with a 100k deposit sounds still difficult as banks dont lend the rest easily when people have a self employed gig and dont necessarily make that much.
Absolutely informative. Interesting. With a touch of humor. Thank you🥰🥰🥰
I remember the Bowflex commercial! The guy in the commercial would never ever work out with that machine and the rubber bands it came with LOL
I love your videos !
A brilliant list! I've always done this kinda thing but I've looked at it from the perspective of : Will this give me more work? Is this thing gonna need cleaning, dusting, moving -is there an ongoing expense involved - does it need filling (cars,children,dogs, pot plants = petrol (gas ), food and clothes and books etc, food and vets bills,repotting and fertilizer). It's not being callous - it's showing love and care. Can I maintain this X in a proper manner? Otherwise I shouldn't have/get/purchase this. It's why I only had 2 children and currently don't have a dog. (Though dog comming soon - yea!!!)
Ooh these are great ideas!
hahahahhaa love that you added that austin powers clip
I watched all of your videos yo!
I talk the same stuff for year's and year's..I'm not a sucker like everyone.
and I always know that someday I'm gonna need good cash for a big bill or something and by not wasting my paycheck, it really adds up in my accounts..to cover anything ..or emergency stuff ..like rent a car ect..or to put something on credit or debit but pay it off fast..I want no credit card owings..I don't care what they say about credit score that's all bull...and enjoy doing cheap stuff like learning a new language or an I strument...seriously..or reading a good book ..or watching jeopardy..!!! then going to bed ..early ..eating healthy..really .change your lifestyle.
Girl, you are great but amazon Prime is also fantastic. Free unlimited delivery of general items, some free music and movies, and now for a tennis fan I get to watch live grand slam and other tournaments from anywhere by paying a bit extra.
Free?
@@AccordingtoNicole Ha! ha! not free, you caught me there but still I think it is reasonably good value for all that I get from it.
@@rosieposie9564 I agree. Just like Nicole said, you save on things that arent important to you, so that you are able to enjoy/pay for things that are. So we pay for AMZ Prime for TV and bought a 2nd hand Fire Stick, which is the cheapest type of live TV (besides local channels which suck) I could find. We would have to pay for some sort of service for TV, so at least we also get music, movies and free 2 day shipping as part of the deal. And most importantly, we actually use them all. I can also download movies onto my laptop to watch when traveling in the car or on a plane. For us, its a great value.
@@qq1651 Indeed, love Amazon prime.
You're awesome. That is all.
Sometimes buying a little something brings me joy. I don't live a luxurious life, and I'm definitely not trying to impress anyone. That being said, I know that I live above my means. My goals this year are to pay off my credit card and save money (directly deposited into my savings account) I'm currently looking for a part time job to supplement my income. Edit: I guess I'd say that I'm more of a spontaneous spender. I have Amazon Prime.
Good ideas and my advice is to destroy the credit card after you have paid it off so that you are never tempted to use it again.
I agree with little somethings. I bought a pack of Nike socks from Dick’s with a $10 coupon and it sparked lots of joy. My boots feel better with the thicker socks
You are right...I see RUclipsrs having Drew Barrymore appliances and I think I need them. No I do not!!! My girlfriend and I go to home goods and most everything in my cart I put back. Yay for me.
I love your counter stools. Where’d you get them?
They’re the Tami Stool from EQ3 in walnut.
Girl my budget allows for me to spend $200 on a new phone and I spent $150 for 128giga bites I'm too cheap to spend thousands on a phone 📱🤳. 😺
my phone never slows down and i keep it more than 3 years. maybe thats an iphone thing. i have use cases for my smartphone, tablet, and pc but others wont share all these use cases.