IMO, either you’re in or you’re not-you’re justifying. Fix what’s not working; cover the calendar or see if you can remove it with your computer program and stop being lazy!! Reprint and cut. Be a better steward with your money! NOW, with that being said, I have to organize the avalanche of planner crap that just slid off my bed and sell some of it. It’s so ridiculous how we stress out SO much over this stuff. We’re successful adult women for heavens sake!! Ugh!! 😑 😂😂😂😂 I’ve found that handling money is kind of like dieting in the sense that the more you deprive yourself, the more you can’t get it out of your head. Then…we self justify and go ape shit and spend more than we would have in the first place. It’s like a slippery slope and a delicate dance. Good luck my friend. ❤
I suffer with the same affliction honey, I drive myself crazy. I am also in the process of decluttering my house and it looks like a bomb went off in here. Yet, I am here watching video’s and scrolling on my phone at the same time. You hit a nerve with me that needed to be hit and I put my phone down and only one more video and I’m signing off. Social media really is a time suck. I need to handle myself. Pray for me and I’ll pray for you. 🤷🏻♀️🙏💯
Harsh but fair ❤Sam, you could buy a different insert and not like the paper, or something, and then risk spiralling into buying something else. Amazon vouchers are difficult, bc you did earn that money, but you could buy, I don’t know, plant food, or put it towards a new office chair, or what if you break your favourite something, and could get it replaced… Difficult choices.
Hi, Sam! Re your request for advice... I think it depends on what the goal of your no-buy is. The goal of my own no-buy this year is equal parts spend less money AND be content with and use what I have / detach my dopamine and serotonin from purchasing/planning purchases/getting the perfect thing/opening packages/having new stuff. So the acquisition you've described would be cheating *for me* because I would feel like I've cheated myself out of that second goal a little bit. BUT if you will not feel that way or your goal is primarily focused around spending less money, then I would say using the gift card achieves that goal. At the end of the day, we know deep down whether we are cheating or deceiving ourselves, and how you will feel about it and yourself is really the only thing that matters, not accountability to the internet or how other people will interpret your acquisition. I think your thoughtfulness around this is already a success if we are trying to move towards fewer mindless purchases. ❤
Hi Sam. Because i am cheap i would keep the inserts and find some file folder labels (you know you have some) and just cover up the calendar so you can write in that area. White out?😊
I say make due with what you have. Make it a challenge to find a creative way to cover up or fix what you don't like about the iinsert. A no buy usually makes you uncomfortable at times but you will be more proud of yourself if you can find a way to make it work without purchasing something new even if it doesn't cost you anythng with a gift card. Good luck your doing great with your goals.
If it's not going to bother you, use a hole punch and just make the holes a bit larger and it'll be fine. I've done this many times. I either miscalculated the placement or they were too snug on the rings. Just a tad off on either side of the hole and problem fixed. It will be perfectly imperfect.
You can white out the calendar, glue a rectangle of plain printer paper over it or even glue a plain tip in over the top of it, or use a sticker from your stash. As for the to do list paper, you can add your own from your printer paper, scrap paper or graph paper that you have in your stash. I like to be creative and think outside the box when I'm on a tight budget. I think it makes the struggle more fun.
I like your example of chair shopping, then realizing you could use a cushion to solve your immediate problem. And your reminder to ask why we think we need to buy something right this instant; whether we can save up for it over time instead, intentionally. Do you use any budgeting software? I’ve used YNAB in the past, and it’s built on this philosophy of setting aside money into categories that gradually build, for things you know you want but don’t need immediately. I’m making a mental note now to go update my own budget now, heh. What if you just inserted a blank page between each of the weekly spreads in your ring planner? That would give plenty of extra space on a companion page to the week, like a hobonichi weeks has. I think it’s easy for wants to feel like needs. For me the whole point of quitting buying stationery completely is to give my brain a complete break from thinking about it, and to give it a chance to stop wanting things. Sure you can justify it financially, that it’s not expensive, and it’s a gift card, but is this helping you mentally? When you say you’ve thought about it a lot, does that feel like a positive thing, or does it feel like mental shopping? If you purchase the Filofax inserts, does it open the door to make more exceptions? I would also not be afraid to add extra clarification to your rules as the year goes by. When something comes up that is ambiguous, maybe ask whether it’s in the ‘spirit’ of the rules. Just my three cents! Nice job already finishing a book by the way! I’ve also been reading more and avoiding instagram and youtube both. I’m reading this really interesting book called “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari. It’s about how we’re losing our ability to focus on things for very long, largely thanks to social media and other platforms that are incentivized to keep us looking at screens as much as possible.
You make some good points, and I’m with you on the door opening to more exceptions…*can* I make it work? Probably. Good for me I haven’t taken the plunge and purchased any…I’ll still have time to ponder it. We don’t use software, but my husband uses an excel spreadsheet. 🫣 I might need to read that book!!
Hi Sam! I'm on a low/no buy as well. Gift cards that you have gotten as gifts are free game. As far as the rings(which I have and love) goes, i would make it work. To cover the calender I would use correction tape. I hope this helps. Take care 😊😊😊
As a fellow planner also on a low buy I use gift cards as anything goes. Clothing and planning supplies are items on my no buy list, but if I get a gift card for a holiday, I allow myself to get items from that list, as long as it doesn’t go over the gift card amount. I think other people have mentioned this, but it is always helpful for me to wait a period of a few weeks before making a purchase. As a recovering shopping addict, I have found this to be a great practice. I am loving your content, and congrats on everything you’re accomplishing! I’m on month 5 of my low buy, and it’s awesome to see someone on a similar journey. It makes it feel less lonely!
I like your approach to the gift card. And waiting a few weeks would be better for sure. I think I’ll make the insert work, I just need to get over my irritation that they aren’t the same. Thanks for joining me, and great job on your own journey!
Thanks Sam I need to spend less. I am either buying thriftbooks, journaling supplies, freezer/cupboard store deals. So i am doing a tracker of my non spend days. So far this year it has worked and made me aware how much i would boredom shop. I made a chart for meal planning so that i use what i have. It is still a process. Progress not perfection. I would cover the calendar with label stickers for now and see if you like the format. Make a small calendar insert if you want that visual weekly.
Love this content. I'm on a no/low spend journey myself and this is refreshing compared to the overconsumption content that so many post. I'm not saying I don't watch it but this is the kind of content I really need to be consuming.
It’s interesting how I have had a few of these RUclips channels come up in my feed of those who are on a low spend or no spend journey this year. I’m sure our economic reality is setting in for some of us too. I will tell you honestly that I had passed by on watching your videos as they were tempting me to buy things, so how ironic that I saw your title and was glad to see what you’re doing! It’s great inspiration as I was really trying last year focused on putting out financial fires, but now I’m trying to clear out clutter and work on small things that I want to stop and take that time to evaluate why I buy or need to reward myself for doing things that are just part of being a responsible adult 😂 I guess I just want to be more intentional and less wasteful with time, money and things. So, it will be a great journey to be on together 🙌🏻
The economy is crap for sure. If I measured my stash against others, it still may not seem excessive, but it’s excessive to me, and that’s all that matters. I feel the same about “rewards” I hope your year is successful!
I was talking about this earlier. Sadly I lost my job so unable to purchase my normal weekly w/notes planner & inserts that I've used for years. I'm having to repurpose old planner & printable freebies. It's definitely a challenge & often frustrating but keep reminding myself I don't have a choice so just make it work. Helps me be more at peace w/it. I know you're not in the same situation financially but you've set a goal so it just comes down to if you deep down feel if it's a real need or if you are willing to bare down & fully follow your goal whole heartedly.
I so relate to this! I’m between contracts so having to bypass my normal stationary and planner supplies spending. I’m determined to make what I already have work and sell the rest! ☺️🤞🏻
Hi Sam, I loved this video - you are doing great and I was smiling at your achievements! However, I wonder if it would be useful to also write down (and refer often to) your reasons for doing the no-buy. Is it to save money? Or to break the habit/FOMO? If it's purely to save money, then it's fine to use the gift cards (although you could use them for the other things you need!). But we're only a week into 2024 and you're already looking for loopholes - like a drinker or smoker who only drinks/smokes when other people buy them isn't making the change they need or improving their life, are they? They're still a slave to the same addictions or habits. You're stronger than you think Sam, hold fast and ride out the cravings, and thank you so much for sharing the good and the not-so-good! xx
Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing your journey! I am on a similar one: destashing and focusing on my health and wellness. Congratulations on paying down your card! Could you not white out the calendar or paste a small square of paper over it to give you back that real estate? I am treating my hobby/stationery spending as an addiction and there is no moderation in addiction! Make some clear exeptions and be prepared to be uncomfortable. Good luck! 🙌🏼
I would try the insert first, maybe it will suprise you! I would use a white sticker on the calendar part. I'm doing a no buy year. If a new situation comes up, I make a decision on it once, write it down in the rules and stick to it. You can make your own rules and it wont be cheating. However, just be really intentional if your purchase will work for you and if you really need it, not just want. If it makes your life easier, go for it, of it will make you anxious don't! Good luck! 😊
What I usually do before buying inserts, is draw them out for 1-3 months (depending on complexity, eg monthly I can easily do for 3 months), and if I still use them by the end of that period - I’m fine buying them! You can keep printing yours let’s say till end of February and then, if you still use them - buy them!
Personally, I would need to hold off buying planner supplies in any capacity at the beginning. It is a slippery slope when you get that browser open and get the rush of knowing something new is coming in. Maybe save those gift cards for your quarterly "celebration" for not buying for the previous 3 months. also, you are so proud of yourself for finding a way to not buy a new chair; it would be nice for you to feel the same for your planners. Think through the situation: 1) how much do you need the calendar on the weekly pages 2) if you TRULY need it, can you print off the 26 mini calendars you need and glue them on or simply write them in 3) really thinking you will be uber proud of yourself if you don't buy anything even with a gift card.
I have also been trying to "commit" to a low-buy year. I've re-routed my urges of personal shopping to monthly couponing and frugality to shop for gifts for others, such as birthdays and holidays, which has already been saving us quite a bit of money. When it comes to my planner/journal supplies, I treat those as necessities for part of my everyday life and for my sanity😉 I've established my Moterm TN system, but at times, I have to purchase more inserts. These are "necessities" and not frivolous spending for me and my planning system. In regards to gift cards, I would consider those supplemental, which could be used on whatever you deem necessary😊 God bless
Gift cards are acceptable! I’d use it wisely, but gift cards are a gift! I just bought my first Hobo Weeks and a pack of Sharpie S Note highlighters with a gift card I received for Christmas. Wouldn’t have purchased otherwise. I think a gift card is the perfect balance with a low buy.. shop mindfully with gift cards and don’t spend otherwise. New subscriber! I’m here for the updates!
If you're "no buying", then don't buy. You'll continue to generate reasons why "you really do need" a thing. Use the inserts you have - that's the point of the no buy/low buy exercise.
I think if you have inserts already purchase then make them work for you, you aren’t going to be using them forever just until they are used up. Keep in mind I am a person that can make any planner work for me. I have used TNs, rings, BUJO, etc. The only planner that I wasn’t able to make work for me was the Stalogy and that wasn’t the layout but because I HATED the paper.
You could make, what's called collections in the Bullet Journal community, a simple table where you might first write the day and then items removed. Return what you don't like if you've just bought it. You could make that hobonichi weeks layout in your bought book. Yes, it's still buying even with the gift card. It's money you could spent on clothes.
In my opinion, use the Amazon gift card(s) to purchase anything you want. As long as the gift card(s) covers the purchase and does not have to be supplemented with your credit card, then no harm done. If the purchase is something on your “no buy” list, pause before ordering and ask yourself, do I sell xyz item that I already have in order to get this new item (if you have 5 coffee mugs and you want another, do you get rid of one coffee mug to get the new?). I understand your goal…if YOU think purchasing a “banned” item with a gift card will send you into a situation where you are out of control with spending and buying, then hold onto the gift card and wait until you are ready. I’m definitely in the spend the gift card camp. Good luck and great video!! ❤️
If your reasons were purely monetary, I’d say go ahead. But since you are trying to change long term habits into better ones, use this as a time to show your strength and not justify the habit just because the money is a gift. I get it. I’m trying to do the same after life threw me many curveballs. You got this! 💪🏻❤️
I've decided that gift cards and credit card points are ok to use for a no buy year. When I start questioning myself though, I focus on why I'm doing a no buy challenge in the first place. My purpose is strictly to get rid of clutter and use and appreciate what I have, so even if I do have credit card points and gift cards I still keep my primary purpose in mind.
Not sure there is a right or wrong answer, but I would feel great not buying any new inserts because it would keep my no-buy streak going. The act of creating them yourself will give you something to do with your hands and your creativity! Blessings!
Keep updating us please. I ordered some stuff from Amazon today that I wanted but definitely didn’t need. I have to be done with that. You’ve inspired me and I’m going to do this too. Also…subscribing. Thank you for this! Good luck with your journey. You sound strong enough to make this happen!
If a planner truly isn’t working and you can’t make it work - then replacing it is not violation the rules imho because you truly need a system to work for you. People say this is a hobby but planning itself isn’t a hobby. It’s a tool to keep us organized and on track. But it has to actually work for us and we have to use it. That the goal. The goal of the no spend is to not buy just because or bc you are being nit picky or bored etc. it’s not to prevent you from having a truly functional system. The monthly if it’s not functional replace it. Print and cut a freebie you love or one from your stash that you redate with adobe pro. The weekly make it work for you. If you can’t get it there do the same. Using Amazon gift cards or gifts to buy something need because the system truly isn’t working or you ran out of something you use all the time and love or even something fun is ok imho. But using it to buy a new planner because you don’t want to make the other work (and it’s easy to get it usable and adjust it) or because you don’t want to be bothered printing and cutting is different. Imho either take some sticker paper or a box sticker and cover up the monthly on the Sunday so you have functional space. Or print and cut what you’ve got or what’s free out there because there’s so much. I think these inserts work with some minor tweaks for your needs or you can print what you need and like easily and without violating the no spend or making the purchase be “ok”. You came up with a solution for the chair. The insert can work the same way.
I resonate with your paper layout dilemma! Sometimes, I’m able to make things work, but other times, it causes so much friction for me, that I end up abandoning it. For your existing, what about trying to trade with someone who does have a use for them? It might be more work, but it might be an option?
Can I ask, how much do you actually write or need to write on a Sunday? Is it really going to be an issue? Are you blowing it up in your mind? Could you be being a little OCD about it? Could you not tape or glue a strip of blank paper over the calendar on the Sundays when you need to write more. Look at this like your work chair, if you can work around it, that’s what you should do. Of course I have no idea how much your talking about for a new purchase, I just think when you give in once it’s much easier to give in again and again until you are back to old habits. Been there done that and know what it’s like trying to convert something to make it work. How much would it cost you to print out a weekly set-up that would work and how much time and effort would it take then for you to cut it and punch holes? I am also trying a no spend this year. My main area is on craft and journaling items but just in general a no spend year unless we really need something.
I love your videos. And the sitch up for the New Year. I am on the same low spend/no spend path...especially with journal/planner supplies. So your videos are so encouraging to me! Thank you!😊😊
I can relate to the comment about us losing our minds!! I don’t know what the heck I was thinking!! I’ve listed a few on eBay to sell - then bought another?! What?! Amanda really?! Ughhh!!! We can totally do this! I had a mega stressful few weeks and I absolutely stress buy and I need to work on that! Xxx
Sam I use rings too. I have other spine books I like but for certain things I prefer my small collections in rings. I use rings for my running lists and stickies, my calendar, my grocery list, my wish list, my supplies list, my foods list and my packing for travel list and my running book/reading list For my calendar I use Filofax week on a page and a notes page on the other side and they are great. I think what you are considering is a great compromise Sam. The only thing I’m going to throw out there is something I just found or considered the other day and that is Spenders Anonymous. They have a prayer and some rules and pointers and helps for anyone struggling with purchasing. I couldn’t believe how helpful it was. It’s like a really wise Aunt who you trust to guide you. No one has to know you think you might have a problem or ever visited the sight. Our culture is about spending and instant gratification so it’s natural to get off track. I’ve been using the sight before I go out or if I feel a bit of obsession building. God bless you and everyone in the New Year.
Thanks for the suggestion. I think I have a good handle on things, throughout my life I’ve been able to see errors and fix them. I think with some family struggles and the pandemic, it just took me a little longer to see this time.
Doesn’t paying off debt feel like loosing weight!?!? I love this video. You make a plan because you know it’s what you need and what’s ultimately the best for you, then you have to implement it and it gets uncomfortable…then, comes the growth!!!!!
If you want to keep the weeks pages you have, place a lined or graph sheet between each page. That way you have a place for a running list on the right side with the weeks days on the left and the next eeek you will have a place for a running list on the left, with the weeks days on the right. I hope that makes sense. I don’t know how expensive new inserts would be, but if it really bothers you I think it’s ok to buy them since you will be using it everyday.
I relate so much to you! I am trying to use the same 2 planners this year too. As well as trying to spend less, purchase less, and try out my capsule wardrobe! I’m excited for us! I also need to stop with the decor and mugs 😅😂
In regards to Amazon gift cards for the year 2024, I would use them for things that are needs not wants. In my experience, gift cards tend to have me buying things i “want” which leads to clutter and me getting rid of such items. Now I treat gift cards like it’s actual cash, would I buy this item with the paycheck? Love your thoughtful videos, thanks for sharing with us!
I think that if you have gift cards or money that is not taking from your regular accounts you should go for it. Birthday, Christmas money that should be used any way you choose.
If you have a gift card, you should do something fun, so the no-buy doesn't count there. BUT - buying an insert is a slippery slope. I would reallt try to use this one, as I do believe you've said you don't always write a lot on Sunday and you have other spaces to write if every other Sunday the space is too small.
I love your observations in this!! And sooo many wins happening!! Awesome progress. I am also on a stationery no buy, and it’s been eye opening and difficult lol. I personally think gift cards are fair game to whatever you wanna use it for.
Hmmmmm, I think it sounds like you're justifying Sam. If ultimately you can use what you have or adapt it somehow or use freebies, you can spare yourself the back and forth about what does or does not qualify within your no buy. I have been sooooo inspired by your health journey to the point that I've reset and have reimplemented IF back into my life and cutting out sugar from my diet. If during your journey, you did the same as you are now with the no buy, how far do you think you would have gotten? It's a slippery slope, I know...we've all been there. BUT, you will be so much better off once get on the other side of this thing. This year will be my 50th turn around the sun and I want to do better for myself. I'm not in a bad way but definitely want to continue evolving as a human being. While I'm not on a no buy, I have decided to minimize my possessions and create space in my life for the sake of my mental health and well-being. Stuff has become a serious 4-letter word for me and I want to challenge myself to work on being a better me without material accumulation. I jumped on the planner bandwagon (can't even tell you how many CS covers I have that I need to sell). I also have a pretty extensive shoe collection but I end up using the same one or two planner covers, pens, planners, notebooks, etc and wear the same stuff over and over. It's time to practice unattachment and start living a more meaningful, holistic life. I am inspired by how you are implementing your goals for the year already. I am so looking forward to hearing about your journey along the way. Please keep up the updates...for better or worse. Thanks for sharing!
My advice would be not to buy or replace those inserts but make it work for you. You're trying to change your problem solving skills from 'buy a replacement' to 'make what I have work'. I think total abstinence from buying planner supplies would be more helpful than dipping a toe in and justifying each purchase through the year.
I think using a gift card to buy a convince planner item is a definite violation of your overall goal to to reduce your spending. You already have inserts that can work with a little bit of customization. Glue a strip of paper over the calendar. White it out. Add a page between and put a calendar on it. Lots of things you can do to avoid an unnecessary purchase here. In general, gift cards aren’t cheating, but to stay faithful to your overall goal, save your gift card for a true oversight or to replace something that breaks.
What bothers you more about the personalized Filofax inserts? The imperfect punching or the calendar on 1/2 of the Sunday on the left-hand page? My solution would be to cut some copy paper the size of the calendars & use a tape runner to cover them up. Yep, it's some work, but it saves $$ that you've already spent. Or, Post-It makes 1" post-it tape (658, Amazon does sell) that might fit & be easier for you. If the imperfect punching really bugs you, have you tried punching again with your punch? Yes, holes might be wonky, but will the pages turn more easily? IMHO you really need to carefully consider ALL aspects of a planner or inserts before you purchase. I think that you get excited about how a planner or inserts will work for you and solve a problem that you're having, but when you get the planner or inserts, there is an aspect about them that bugs you so much that you don't want to use them anymore and want to buy something else. If you want equal space on all of the horizontal days, on both the left-hand and right-hand pages, DON'T buy an insert that puts a calendar (or tracker or something else) in space that you want to be blank. Here is an example where you really do need to have a saved browser tab and spend some time really scrutinizing and reflecting. Look at ALL the aspects of the inserts. If there aren't good photos of every aspect that you need to consider, DON'T hope that it will be OK, close that tab and DON'T buy. If there is something that you're not sure about for a planner or inserts, have a hard talk with yourself. Don't buy something that deep within yourself you have a sneaking suspicion that you might not like and won't end up using.
Awesome job Sam. You have some great will power. How's keto, I've been doing it for about 6 months and lost about 45 pounds with only a few cheats 😂. Keep up the great work 😊
9 months of keto is in 2 days, and I have had potatoes, but only couple of times around my cycle, which I read about doing recently. I’ve had no sugar. Even at Christmas! Great job with your journey!
Congratulations on the wins! I really like that you waited to buy the chair and went with a cushion instead. You can always set money aside each month to save towards it. And maybe you can use money from RUclips to slowly build up your fund. Also, does your husband/one of your kids has a good chair? You can always borrow theirs on days you are working from home (assuming they are at work/school). Personally I would wait to purchase the inserts even if is with a gift card. We are on the first week of the year and I think this is your brain trying to trick you into making a purchase because you have been doing so well. Yes, making inserts is a pain, but think of how you can use that gift card to buy yourself something you actually need (like clothes). Also, see if you can hang onto the bound book a little longer. Give yourself another week or so before you decide you absolutely want to go back to rings.
I guess I think it is a slippery slope. This probably won’t fix the discontent. Also that money could be used towards other expenses for the household to save more money. I am working on doing the same thing. I have done well for January. It is so much harder than I had hoped. I have bought some fast food that I would like to cut back on for this month. Shopping my stash for planner things and not buying.
Can you just write over top of that calendar? What about whiting it out with paint? lol I personally would try to make it work. But I'm not super picky or exacting at all. haha
I’m trying to do a low buy on stationery stuff and eating out as well. I’ve done well on not purchasing any stationery items but I did eat out once. I did sell some things I wasn’t using though so that’s a win
I don’t think gift cards are cheating, but if the intention is to use what you already have then that might fall into the rule break! I know you don’t want to be printing and cutting but you have always enjoyed the peanuts planner freebie weekly! I think sometimes buying things we are trying not to can be triggering and a slippery slope! I am on a similar journey but on a low spend rather than a no spend(because if I say no I will hyper focus on wanting it) but I am trying to be mindful of my spending and I am totally going to start writing down my thoughts on spending think that will really help, thank you for the inspiration! Congratulations on your wins 😊
It’s not cheating you had it before and not spending money. It has to be inexpensive and paid off the gift card. Yes make an Amazon wishlist and if and when you get gift card you can make a purchase but much process the “why” behind the new item. Good luck beloved ❤
To the Question you asked us: You are trying to justify cheating... I can see why some people were frustrated. Use what youve got; NEXT year you could tally all the issues & come up with a better option. For now... Stick with what You have. I adored my Planner for 2022 & 23, so for 2024 I went a size up thinking I could use the space difference. While I love the extra space, its not as convenient in size. So, I have this year to decide: Do I like the smaller & write tinier *OR* keep the larger/get over the bulk for next years Planner... Isnt that part of what makes the following year fresh & fun? Keep a Pro/Con List with ALL the paper you have. Go for a walk instead of impulse buying, Neuroscience says replacement of habits is how we can shift our behavior
I disagree it was cheating and don’t see a reason for a viewer to be frustrated with a decision that is mine. I am ultimately glad I stepped back-I ended up going in a different direction with items already purchased.
I'm very frugal, so my solution is never to buy another product. I make it work somehow, white out or cover the calendar that is at issue. It's such a small problem imo, but I understand that's not how everyone would feel about it.
In my opinion… if the gift card totally pays for the inserts you want to purchase, I don’t think it’s cheating because they would be considered a gift 😁. Good luck with making your decision and I look forward to watching more of your videos!!! 😁
Can you maybe make a list of reasons why this insert is not working for you? Is there something you could do to fix it, like you fixed your chair problem without getting a whole new insert?
@@samplans think about it this way: the Sunday space issue will potentially come up only once every two weeks. One day out of fourteen. Maybe you could review your inserts from the past to see how often you need more space than the smaller Sunday gives you in this insert? If it is something you will have to deal with every week, than it is one situation. But if you need a lot of space on Sundays only occasionally, than you might be able to get that space by, for example, covering the calendar with a sticky note, using the notes page that you mentioned inserting for extra space, etc.
My bestie and I are both on no-buys this year as well. However, her rule has always been gift cards are fair game. If someone gives you money, it's the same as giving a gift. The only difference is you're picking the gift. But technically, they're buying it for you! This Christmas, I was going to give my bestie an Amazon gift card. However, I made the mistake of putting the money into my own Amazon gift card balance--which meant I couldn't buy her the gift card with it! My son (who is a freaking genius) suggested I ask her what she would've bought with the card, then simply buy that for her. So, that's what I did. She chose a Hobonichi Weeks (the irony, right?). She's been wanting to try one for a long time, but refused to buy one for herself. However, since I bought it for her as a gift, it didn't break her no-buy! Or mine, since I wasn't buying it for myself! lol Having said all that, I do see the point that a lot of you guys made here, that using the gift card to buy those inserts could potentially be a slippery slope. And just like you fixed your chair issue with a cushion, you can probably fix the insert issue with either correction tape or a sticker. If that's the only thing keeping you from using the inserts, that's what I'd do. In other words, I support both sides here! Which means I'm no help at all! lol But seriously, it sounds like you've already got your solution, so good job! 💖
I love seeing so many people strive for no/low spending in 2024. I've left my fancy (expensive) planners behind. In September I bought a composition book and created a planner for 3 months. It was an experiment, and an opportunity to learn. Now, I allow myself one composition book planner per month. My health log, reading log, and Bible study/journal, each are a separate composition book, and run until full. I created graph paper habit trackers and routine checklists, and glue them in the book. I got a desksize calender at $🌳, tear off the month I'm working on and trim it to make a 2 page monthly calender in the front of my composition book planner. So far, it's working. (I used one for December, am currently using January, and setting up February) the actual creating of the monthly planner feels therapeutic.
I bought a monthly planner from the dollar tree, and a composition notebook and did a diy planner. Instead of buying a hobonichi cousin (I think that's what it is called). Just finished 🤞 that I will like it.
Sticking with the whole “let it sit” practice, could you not try to use them for a month or so and see if you can make them work? If they just absolutely don’t work for your brain or your schedule then I say a gift card purchase is totally acceptable. Most of the time gift cards are given so that a person can buy something they want not need so I don’t feel like it’s cheating. But you also can flex your new ability to work with what you have first.
I'm doing a "no stationery spend" this year. I am going to use the stationery items I already have and not buy anything new. I do have some exceptions. I am allowed to buy ONE planner for 2025, I am allowed to buy The Budget By Paycheck workbook from The Budget Mom for 2025, I am allowed to get my Traveler's Notebook customized by Baum-Kuchen, and I am allowed to buy a new fountain pen for my birthday. My goal is to save up for the items I am allowing myself to purchase. I am also limiting my time on social media so as not to be influenced and I am also writing the things I want to purchase on a wish list to buy later or perhaps, not at all. I am 8 days in and haven't purchased any stationery related items.
Ooh! I'd love to know which King book you read!! 😀Seriously, do what you need to do. Restriction will equal rebounding. Honestly, placing a bunch of arbitrary rules upon yourself will equate to restriction which will lead to the eventual pendulum swing of rebounding. I get the notion but maybe go with a "low buy" over a "no buy". Guardrails versus a straight jacket 😉
@@samplans I've yet to read Holly! Did you like it? I've been a Constant Reader since I was 12. I don't like his new stuff nearly as much as his older stuff, though. I haven't heard anyone talk about Holly yet so I've been curious....
I feel like the mini month calendar is such a nit-picky thing, that if you can cover it I would. Its on sunday once every 2 weeks, look back to see how much space you used in the past for Sunday. I wouldn't spend the money. I'd make it work some way. I feel there may be something i can better use that gift card for. Technically thats income from affiliate links not a "gift". I have decided to suspend my destash some of my unused planners & covers until March or July. That money is going to be saved.
Not sure if anyone suggested this already, but why don’t you keep your original idea where you put the graph paper down the center splitting the two weeks for you to do list and just cut a notch out of that to do list paper so you could see the mini calendar from the previous week For the next week. Let me know if that makes sense? It’s a bit of cutting but it’s pretty easy and you wouldn’t have to break your no-buy. Hope that helps! Thanks for sharing your journey with us and good luck!
I don’t think it’s cheating if you use a gift card, but the goal of this, in my opinion, is to stop excessive consumerism and to use what you have. Just think about and make sure there’s a REAL NEED for the new inserts before you purchase.
First, high fives all around Sam. Give yourself grace. Feel like you’ve taken five steps forward and you’re sweating yourself for a pinky-toe back. I think using the GC to get the inserts you need to function properly, is absolutely not cheating! TIME is money, and printing, cutting & punching takes a lot of time. Besides, I think that’s what that GC is for. You’re an inspiration, keep up the amazing work. 💪🏻
I checked back. “Sometimes I just feel like…..” is your reason. Try sitting with that feeling but not acting for longer. It’s those feelings that got you into a no spend. Will you really dig out old ring pages to read quotes or notes? You’ve said before you keep bound but not ring papers. Just my thoughts. I got inserts that are not what I wanted, but I’m going to live with them.
I often manage to lose my favorite type of pencil, so I have to have a large number of them and if I couldn’t buy new one if I needed it, that would be very frustrating. I would imagine it would be frustrating if you couldn’t buy paper to add to your rings that you need to actually use and conserve you better so as I said, in the previous comment, use the gift card things that you need that are in your no buy list
Do you need the space that the mini calendar is taking up? Would having a blank page in between the weeks allow for enough space to make up the space taken by the calendar?
do you want to keep what you write on those pages forever? if not. it is just a place to write down some appointment and will be thrown away. to be honest, there would be millions moments to spend/cheat.
@@samplans do you have a lot of things to write on Sunday? you can use a sticky note or just write over it. My grandma said that if there is a rule, either keep it or toss it but never excuse it. there is always a chain reaction after a tiny excuse.
I say using the gift card for planner stuff is cheating. Use a white out roller on that little calendar and keep to your original plan. Save the Amazon money for when you actually need something - a new bra, cat food, something for the house, smaller clothes, etc
![BRASIL vs. URUGUAY [1-1] | RESUMEN | ELIMINATORIAS SUDAMERICANAS | FECHA 12](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-hWBAuxF1eY/mqdefault.jpg)
IMO, either you’re in or you’re not-you’re justifying. Fix what’s not working; cover the calendar or see if you can remove it with your computer program and stop being lazy!! Reprint and cut. Be a better steward with your money! NOW, with that being said, I have to organize the avalanche of planner crap that just slid off my bed and sell some of it. It’s so ridiculous how we stress out SO much over this stuff. We’re successful adult women for heavens sake!! Ugh!! 😑 😂😂😂😂 I’ve found that handling money is kind of like dieting in the sense that the more you deprive yourself, the more you can’t get it out of your head. Then…we self justify and go ape shit and spend more than we would have in the first place. It’s like a slippery slope and a delicate dance. Good luck my friend. ❤
Okay so the first part of your comment made me want to jump off a bridge, but by the end I climbed back down. 😅
I suffer with the same affliction honey, I drive myself crazy. I am also in the process of decluttering my house and it looks like a bomb went off in here. Yet, I am here watching video’s and scrolling on my phone at the same time. You hit a nerve with me that needed to be hit and I put my phone down and only one more video and I’m signing off. Social media really is a time suck. I need to handle myself. Pray for me and I’ll pray for you. 🤷🏻♀️🙏💯
Thanks for the radical candor @tbelsom. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Harsh but fair ❤Sam, you could buy a different insert and not like the paper, or something, and then risk spiralling into buying something else. Amazon vouchers are difficult, bc you did earn that money, but you could buy, I don’t know, plant food, or put it towards a new office chair, or what if you break your favourite something, and could get it replaced… Difficult choices.
Some of us have had a lot of tough “love” in our lives and have trauma because of it.
Use an inexpensive month stamp and write in the dates on the second page. Or draw the calendar yourself and then you’ll have a calendar on each page.
Hi, Sam! Re your request for advice... I think it depends on what the goal of your no-buy is. The goal of my own no-buy this year is equal parts spend less money AND be content with and use what I have / detach my dopamine and serotonin from purchasing/planning purchases/getting the perfect thing/opening packages/having new stuff. So the acquisition you've described would be cheating *for me* because I would feel like I've cheated myself out of that second goal a little bit. BUT if you will not feel that way or your goal is primarily focused around spending less money, then I would say using the gift card achieves that goal. At the end of the day, we know deep down whether we are cheating or deceiving ourselves, and how you will feel about it and yourself is really the only thing that matters, not accountability to the internet or how other people will interpret your acquisition. I think your thoughtfulness around this is already a success if we are trying to move towards fewer mindless purchases. ❤
Hi Sam. Because i am cheap i would keep the inserts and find some file folder labels (you know you have some) and just cover up the calendar so you can write in that area. White out?😊
I say make due with what you have. Make it a challenge to find a creative way to cover up or fix what you don't like about the iinsert. A no buy usually makes you uncomfortable at times but you will be more proud of yourself if you can find a way to make it work without purchasing something new even if it doesn't cost you anythng with a gift card. Good luck your doing great with your goals.
Thank you!
If it's not going to bother you, use a hole punch and just make the holes a bit larger and it'll be fine. I've done this many times. I either miscalculated the placement or they were too snug on the rings. Just a tad off on either side of the hole and problem fixed. It will be perfectly imperfect.
You can white out the calendar, glue a rectangle of plain printer paper over it or even glue a plain tip in over the top of it, or use a sticker from your stash. As for the to do list paper, you can add your own from your printer paper, scrap paper or graph paper that you have in your stash. I like to be creative and think outside the box when I'm on a tight budget. I think it makes the struggle more fun.
I like your example of chair shopping, then realizing you could use a cushion to solve your immediate problem. And your reminder to ask why we think we need to buy something right this instant; whether we can save up for it over time instead, intentionally. Do you use any budgeting software? I’ve used YNAB in the past, and it’s built on this philosophy of setting aside money into categories that gradually build, for things you know you want but don’t need immediately. I’m making a mental note now to go update my own budget now, heh.
What if you just inserted a blank page between each of the weekly spreads in your ring planner? That would give plenty of extra space on a companion page to the week, like a hobonichi weeks has. I think it’s easy for wants to feel like needs. For me the whole point of quitting buying stationery completely is to give my brain a complete break from thinking about it, and to give it a chance to stop wanting things. Sure you can justify it financially, that it’s not expensive, and it’s a gift card, but is this helping you mentally? When you say you’ve thought about it a lot, does that feel like a positive thing, or does it feel like mental shopping? If you purchase the Filofax inserts, does it open the door to make more exceptions? I would also not be afraid to add extra clarification to your rules as the year goes by. When something comes up that is ambiguous, maybe ask whether it’s in the ‘spirit’ of the rules. Just my three cents!
Nice job already finishing a book by the way! I’ve also been reading more and avoiding instagram and youtube both. I’m reading this really interesting book called “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari. It’s about how we’re losing our ability to focus on things for very long, largely thanks to social media and other platforms that are incentivized to keep us looking at screens as much as possible.
You make some good points, and I’m with you on the door opening to more exceptions…*can* I make it work? Probably. Good for me I haven’t taken the plunge and purchased any…I’ll still have time to ponder it.
We don’t use software, but my husband uses an excel spreadsheet. 🫣
I might need to read that book!!
Hi Sam! I'm on a low/no buy as well. Gift cards that you have gotten as gifts are free game. As far as the rings(which I have and love) goes, i would make it work. To cover the calender I would use correction tape. I hope this helps. Take care 😊😊😊
As a fellow planner also on a low buy I use gift cards as anything goes. Clothing and planning supplies are items on my no buy list, but if I get a gift card for a holiday, I allow myself to get items from that list, as long as it doesn’t go over the gift card amount. I think other people have mentioned this, but it is always helpful for me to wait a period of a few weeks before making a purchase. As a recovering shopping addict, I have found this to be a great practice. I am loving your content, and congrats on everything you’re accomplishing! I’m on month 5 of my low buy, and it’s awesome to see someone on a similar journey. It makes it feel less lonely!
I like your approach to the gift card. And waiting a few weeks would be better for sure. I think I’ll make the insert work, I just need to get over my irritation that they aren’t the same.
Thanks for joining me, and great job on your own journey!
Thanks Sam
I need to spend less. I am either buying thriftbooks, journaling supplies, freezer/cupboard store deals. So i am doing a tracker of my non spend days. So far this year it has worked and made me aware how much i would boredom shop. I made a chart for meal planning so that i use what i have. It is still a process. Progress not perfection.
I would cover the calendar with label stickers for now and see if you like the format. Make a small calendar insert if you want that visual weekly.
Love this content. I'm on a no/low spend journey myself and this is refreshing compared to the overconsumption content that so many post. I'm not saying I don't watch it but this is the kind of content I really need to be consuming.
It’s interesting how I have had a few of these RUclips channels come up in my feed of those who are on a low spend or no spend journey this year. I’m sure our economic reality is setting in for some of us too. I will tell you honestly that I had passed by on watching your videos as they were tempting me to buy things, so how ironic that I saw your title and was glad to see what you’re doing!
It’s great inspiration as I was really trying last year focused on putting out financial fires, but now I’m trying to clear out clutter and work on small things that I want to stop and take that time to evaluate why I buy or need to reward myself for doing things that are just part of being a responsible adult 😂 I guess I just want to be more intentional and less wasteful with time, money and things. So, it will be a great journey to be on together 🙌🏻
The economy is crap for sure. If I measured my stash against others, it still may not seem excessive, but it’s excessive to me, and that’s all that matters. I feel the same about “rewards” I hope your year is successful!
I was talking about this earlier. Sadly I lost my job so unable to purchase my normal weekly w/notes planner & inserts that I've used for years. I'm having to repurpose old planner & printable freebies. It's definitely a challenge & often frustrating but keep reminding myself I don't have a choice so just make it work. Helps me be more at peace w/it. I know you're not in the same situation financially but you've set a goal so it just comes down to if you deep down feel if it's a real need or if you are willing to bare down & fully follow your goal whole heartedly.
I so relate to this! I’m between contracts so having to bypass my normal stationary and planner supplies spending. I’m determined to make what I already have work and sell the rest! ☺️🤞🏻
Hi Sam, I loved this video - you are doing great and I was smiling at your achievements! However, I wonder if it would be useful to also write down (and refer often to) your reasons for doing the no-buy. Is it to save money? Or to break the habit/FOMO? If it's purely to save money, then it's fine to use the gift cards (although you could use them for the other things you need!). But we're only a week into 2024 and you're already looking for loopholes - like a drinker or smoker who only drinks/smokes when other people buy them isn't making the change they need or improving their life, are they? They're still a slave to the same addictions or habits. You're stronger than you think Sam, hold fast and ride out the cravings, and thank you so much for sharing the good and the not-so-good! xx
Yeah, it’s not really about saving money, although I’d like to challenge myself to save what I would have spent. I appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing your journey! I am on a similar one: destashing and focusing on my health and wellness. Congratulations on paying down your card! Could you not white out the calendar or paste a small square of paper over it to give you back that real estate? I am treating my hobby/stationery spending as an addiction and there is no moderation in addiction! Make some clear exeptions and be prepared to be uncomfortable. Good luck! 🙌🏼
I would try the insert first, maybe it will suprise you! I would use a white sticker on the calendar part. I'm doing a no buy year. If a new situation comes up, I make a decision on it once, write it down in the rules and stick to it. You can make your own rules and it wont be cheating. However, just be really intentional if your purchase will work for you and if you really need it, not just want. If it makes your life easier, go for it, of it will make you anxious don't! Good luck! 😊
What I usually do before buying inserts, is draw them out for 1-3 months (depending on complexity, eg monthly I can easily do for 3 months), and if I still use them by the end of that period - I’m fine buying them! You can keep printing yours let’s say till end of February and then, if you still use them - buy them!
Personally, I would need to hold off buying planner supplies in any capacity at the beginning. It is a slippery slope when you get that browser open and get the rush of knowing something new is coming in. Maybe save those gift cards for your quarterly "celebration" for not buying for the previous 3 months.
also, you are so proud of yourself for finding a way to not buy a new chair; it would be nice for you to feel the same for your planners. Think through the situation: 1) how much do you need the calendar on the weekly pages 2) if you TRULY need it, can you print off the 26 mini calendars you need and glue them on or simply write them in 3) really thinking you will be uber proud of yourself if you don't buy anything even with a gift card.
I have also been trying to "commit" to a low-buy year. I've re-routed my urges of personal shopping to monthly couponing and frugality to shop for gifts for others, such as birthdays and holidays, which has already been saving us quite a bit of money. When it comes to my planner/journal supplies, I treat those as necessities for part of my everyday life and for my sanity😉 I've established my Moterm TN system, but at times, I have to purchase more inserts. These are "necessities" and not frivolous spending for me and my planning system. In regards to gift cards, I would consider those supplemental, which could be used on whatever you deem necessary😊 God bless
Unsubscribing is such a small thing that can have a big impact. Good on you for your journey and I hope for the best!
I felt like that was all I was doing for about 2 weeks-but it’s already made a huge difference!
Gift cards are acceptable! I’d use it wisely, but gift cards are a gift! I just bought my first Hobo Weeks and a pack of Sharpie S Note highlighters with a gift card I received for Christmas. Wouldn’t have purchased otherwise. I think a gift card is the perfect balance with a low buy.. shop mindfully with gift cards and don’t spend otherwise. New subscriber! I’m here for the updates!
If you're "no buying", then don't buy. You'll continue to generate reasons why "you really do need" a thing. Use the inserts you have - that's the point of the no buy/low buy exercise.
I think if you have inserts already purchase then make them work for you, you aren’t going to be using them forever just until they are used up. Keep in mind I am a person that can make any planner work for me. I have used TNs, rings, BUJO, etc. The only planner that I wasn’t able to make work for me was the Stalogy and that wasn’t the layout but because I HATED the paper.
You could make, what's called collections in the Bullet Journal community, a simple table where you might first write the day and then items removed.
Return what you don't like if you've just bought it. You could make that hobonichi weeks layout in your bought book.
Yes, it's still buying even with the gift card. It's money you could spent on clothes.
In my opinion, use the Amazon gift card(s) to purchase anything you want. As long as the gift card(s) covers the purchase and does not have to be supplemented with your credit card, then no harm done. If the purchase is something on your “no buy” list, pause before ordering and ask yourself, do I sell xyz item that I already have in order to get this new item (if you have 5 coffee mugs and you want another, do you get rid of one coffee mug to get the new?). I understand your goal…if YOU think purchasing a “banned” item with a gift card will send you into a situation where you are out of control with spending and buying, then hold onto the gift card and wait until you are ready. I’m definitely in the spend the gift card camp. Good luck and great video!! ❤️
If your reasons were purely monetary, I’d say go ahead. But since you are trying to change long term habits into better ones, use this as a time to show your strength and not justify the habit just because the money is a gift. I get it. I’m trying to do the same after life threw me many curveballs. You got this! 💪🏻❤️
I've decided that gift cards and credit card points are ok to use for a no buy year. When I start questioning myself though, I focus on why I'm doing a no buy challenge in the first place. My purpose is strictly to get rid of clutter and use and appreciate what I have, so even if I do have credit card points and gift cards I still keep my primary purpose in mind.
I agree; the gift card is money you can use however you want.
Not sure there is a right or wrong answer, but I would feel great not buying any new inserts because it would keep my no-buy streak going. The act of creating them yourself will give you something to do with your hands and your creativity! Blessings!
Keep updating us please. I ordered some stuff from Amazon today that I wanted but definitely didn’t need. I have to be done with that. You’ve inspired me and I’m going to do this too. Also…subscribing. Thank you for this! Good luck with your journey. You sound strong enough to make this happen!
If a planner truly isn’t working and you can’t make it work - then replacing it is not violation the rules imho because you truly need a system to work for you. People say this is a hobby but planning itself isn’t a hobby. It’s a tool to keep us organized and on track. But it has to actually work for us and we have to use it. That the goal. The goal of the no spend is to not buy just because or bc you are being nit picky or bored etc. it’s not to prevent you from having a truly functional system.
The monthly if it’s not functional replace it. Print and cut a freebie you love or one from your stash that you redate with adobe pro. The weekly make it work for you. If you can’t get it there do the same.
Using Amazon gift cards or gifts to buy something need because the system truly isn’t working or you ran out of something you use all the time and love or even something fun is ok imho. But using it to buy a new planner because you don’t want to make the other work (and it’s easy to get it usable and adjust it) or because you don’t want to be bothered printing and cutting is different.
Imho either take some sticker paper or a box sticker and cover up the monthly on the Sunday so you have functional space. Or print and cut what you’ve got or what’s free out there because there’s so much. I think these inserts work with some minor tweaks for your needs or you can print what you need and like easily and without violating the no spend or making the purchase be “ok”. You came up with a solution for the chair. The insert can work the same way.
I am going to make the insert work or use a freebie. I’m holding strong.
@@samplans ❤️🔥 you are a rockstar!
I resonate with your paper layout dilemma! Sometimes, I’m able to make things work, but other times, it causes so much friction for me, that I end up abandoning it. For your existing, what about trying to trade with someone who does have a use for them? It might be more work, but it might be an option?
Can I ask, how much do you actually write or need to write on a Sunday? Is it really going to be an issue? Are you blowing it up in your mind? Could you be being a little OCD about it? Could you not tape or glue a strip of blank paper over the calendar on the Sundays when you need to write more.
Look at this like your work chair, if you can work around it, that’s what you should do. Of course I have no idea how much your talking about for a new purchase, I just think when you give in once it’s much easier to give in again and again until you are back to old habits. Been there done that and know what it’s like trying to convert something to make it work.
How much would it cost you to print out a weekly set-up that would work and how much time and effort would it take then for you to cut it and punch holes?
I am also trying a no spend this year. My main area is on craft and journaling items but just in general a no spend year unless we really need something.
I love your videos. And the sitch up for the New Year. I am on the same low spend/no spend path...especially with journal/planner supplies. So your videos are so encouraging to me! Thank you!😊😊
I can relate to the comment about us losing our minds!! I don’t know what the heck I was thinking!! I’ve listed a few on eBay to sell - then bought another?! What?! Amanda really?! Ughhh!!! We can totally do this! I had a mega stressful few weeks and I absolutely stress buy and I need to work on that! Xxx
Sam I use rings too. I have other spine books I like but for certain things I prefer my small collections in rings. I use rings for my running lists and stickies, my calendar, my grocery list, my wish list, my supplies list, my foods list and my packing for travel list and my running book/reading list For my calendar I use Filofax week on a page and a notes page on the other side and they are great. I think what you are considering is a great compromise Sam. The only thing I’m going to throw out there is something I just found or considered the other day and that is Spenders Anonymous. They have a prayer and some rules and pointers and helps for anyone struggling with purchasing. I couldn’t believe how helpful it was. It’s like a really wise Aunt who you trust to guide you. No one has to know you think you might have a problem or ever visited the sight. Our culture is about spending and instant gratification so it’s natural to get off track. I’ve been using the sight before I go out or if I feel a bit of obsession building. God bless you and everyone in the New Year.
Thanks for the suggestion. I think I have a good handle on things, throughout my life I’ve been able to see errors and fix them. I think with some family struggles and the pandemic, it just took me a little longer to see this time.
Doesn’t paying off debt feel like loosing weight!?!? I love this video. You make a plan because you know it’s what you need and what’s ultimately the best for you, then you have to implement it and it gets uncomfortable…then, comes the growth!!!!!
Somehow living without sugar has been less uncomfortable than this journey. I wanted to scream earlier this week…but I’ve held on!
Awesome job, Sam! I’m so proud of you, and plan to follow you on your journey so I can get inspired myself!
If you want to keep the weeks pages you have, place a lined or graph sheet between each page. That way you have a place for a running list on the right side with the weeks days on the left and the next eeek you will have a place for a running list on the left, with the weeks days on the right. I hope that makes sense. I don’t know how expensive new inserts would be, but if it really bothers you I think it’s ok to buy them since you will be using it everyday.
That was the plan all along, to put the lined page between, I just thought both weeks would be the same size. 😅
As far as the ring planner just use those up this year. If it bugs you so much, white out the calendar.
👏 congrats on low buying. I started this right along with you. Reading and knitting/crocheting are replacing my shopping. Rachelle in Seattle
Reading and knitting routinely keep me out of a lot of trouble!
I feel like if someone buys you a gift card then you can get what you want. A gift is what you want and not necessarily what you need.
I relate so much to you! I am trying to use the same 2 planners this year too. As well as trying to spend less, purchase less, and try out my capsule wardrobe! I’m excited for us! I also need to stop with the decor and mugs 😅😂
Decor and mugs are soooo easy to buy! We can do it!!
In regards to Amazon gift cards for the year 2024, I would use them for things that are needs not wants. In my experience, gift cards tend to have me buying things i “want” which leads to clutter and me getting rid of such items. Now I treat gift cards like it’s actual cash, would I buy this item with the paycheck? Love your thoughtful videos, thanks for sharing with us!
I think that if you have gift cards or money that is not taking from your regular accounts you should go for it. Birthday, Christmas money that should be used any way you choose.
If you have a gift card, you should do something fun, so the no-buy doesn't count there. BUT - buying an insert is a slippery slope. I would reallt try to use this one, as I do believe you've said you don't always write a lot on Sunday and you have other spaces to write if every other Sunday the space is too small.
You are right-Sunday isn’t a day where much usually goes…I’m holding off.
Congratulations on your wins! You are doing excellent!
I love your observations in this!! And sooo many wins happening!! Awesome progress. I am also on a stationery no buy, and it’s been eye opening and difficult lol.
I personally think gift cards are fair game to whatever you wanna use it for.
If it were me, I’d place stickers over the calendar on the bottom. That said, do what you need to do…without the guilt.
Hmmmmm, I think it sounds like you're justifying Sam. If ultimately you can use what you have or adapt it somehow or use freebies, you can spare yourself the back and forth about what does or does not qualify within your no buy. I have been sooooo inspired by your health journey to the point that I've reset and have reimplemented IF back into my life and cutting out sugar from my diet. If during your journey, you did the same as you are now with the no buy, how far do you think you would have gotten? It's a slippery slope, I know...we've all been there. BUT, you will be so much better off once get on the other side of this thing. This year will be my 50th turn around the sun and I want to do better for myself. I'm not in a bad way but definitely want to continue evolving as a human being. While I'm not on a no buy, I have decided to minimize my possessions and create space in my life for the sake of my mental health and well-being. Stuff has become a serious 4-letter word for me and I want to challenge myself to work on being a better me without material accumulation. I jumped on the planner bandwagon (can't even tell you how many CS covers I have that I need to sell). I also have a pretty extensive shoe collection but I end up using the same one or two planner covers, pens, planners, notebooks, etc and wear the same stuff over and over. It's time to practice unattachment and start living a more meaningful, holistic life. I am inspired by how you are implementing your goals for the year already. I am so looking forward to hearing about your journey along the way. Please keep up the updates...for better or worse. Thanks for sharing!
My advice would be not to buy or replace those inserts but make it work for you. You're trying to change your problem solving skills from 'buy a replacement' to 'make what I have work'. I think total abstinence from buying planner supplies would be more helpful than dipping a toe in and justifying each purchase through the year.
Thanks, you may be right in that thinking.
Paper Star Fish makes excellent inserts. This is what I use and love them.
I think using a gift card to buy a convince planner item is a definite violation of your overall goal to to reduce your spending. You already have inserts that can work with a little bit of customization. Glue a strip of paper over the calendar. White it out. Add a page between and put a calendar on it. Lots of things you can do to avoid an unnecessary purchase here. In general, gift cards aren’t cheating, but to stay faithful to your overall goal, save your gift card for a true oversight or to replace something that breaks.
Thank you.
What bothers you more about the personalized Filofax inserts? The imperfect punching or the calendar on 1/2 of the Sunday on the left-hand page?
My solution would be to cut some copy paper the size of the calendars & use a tape runner to cover them up. Yep, it's some work, but it saves $$ that you've already spent. Or, Post-It makes 1" post-it tape (658, Amazon does sell) that might fit & be easier for you.
If the imperfect punching really bugs you, have you tried punching again with your punch? Yes, holes might be wonky, but will the pages turn more easily?
IMHO you really need to carefully consider ALL aspects of a planner or inserts before you purchase. I think that you get excited about how a planner or inserts will work for you and solve a problem that you're having, but when you get the planner or inserts, there is an aspect about them that bugs you so much that you don't want to use them anymore and want to buy something else. If you want equal space on all of the horizontal days, on both the left-hand and right-hand pages, DON'T buy an insert that puts a calendar (or tracker or something else) in space that you want to be blank. Here is an example where you really do need to have a saved browser tab and spend some time really scrutinizing and reflecting. Look at ALL the aspects of the inserts. If there aren't good photos of every aspect that you need to consider, DON'T hope that it will be OK, close that tab and DON'T buy. If there is something that you're not sure about for a planner or inserts, have a hard talk with yourself. Don't buy something that deep within yourself you have a sneaking suspicion that you might not like and won't end up using.
Thanks for your thoughts!
Loved this video! On the same journey and old habits are indeed hard to break! Practice makes perfect!
They definitely are!
Awesome job Sam. You have some great will power. How's keto, I've been doing it for about 6 months and lost about 45 pounds with only a few cheats 😂. Keep up the great work 😊
9 months of keto is in 2 days, and I have had potatoes, but only couple of times around my cycle, which I read about doing recently. I’ve had no sugar. Even at Christmas! Great job with your journey!
@samplans potatoes are hard not to eat but good luck.
Yay for those wins!!!! ❤
Congratulations on the wins! I really like that you waited to buy the chair and went with a cushion instead. You can always set money aside each month to save towards it. And maybe you can use money from RUclips to slowly build up your fund. Also, does your husband/one of your kids has a good chair? You can always borrow theirs on days you are working from home (assuming they are at work/school).
Personally I would wait to purchase the inserts even if is with a gift card. We are on the first week of the year and I think this is your brain trying to trick you into making a purchase because you have been doing so well. Yes, making inserts is a pain, but think of how you can use that gift card to buy yourself something you actually need (like clothes). Also, see if you can hang onto the bound book a little longer. Give yourself another week or so before you decide you absolutely want to go back to rings.
Thanks for your updates! Where do you usually sell items?
Either on my IG or various FB groups. I currently have some sales in my IG stories.
I guess I think it is a slippery slope. This probably won’t fix the discontent. Also that money could be used towards other expenses for the household to save more money. I am working on doing the same thing. I have done well for January. It is so much harder than I had hoped. I have bought some fast food that I would like to cut back on for this month. Shopping my stash for planner things and not buying.
Can you just write over top of that calendar? What about whiting it out with paint? lol I personally would try to make it work. But I'm not super picky or exacting at all. haha
I’m trying to do a low buy on stationery stuff and eating out as well. I’ve done well on not purchasing any stationery items but I did eat out once. I did sell some things I wasn’t using though so that’s a win
Yea for the chair cushion!
I don’t think gift cards are cheating, but if the intention is to use what you already have then that might fall into the rule break! I know you don’t want to be printing and cutting but you have always enjoyed the peanuts planner freebie weekly! I think sometimes buying things we are trying not to can be triggering and a slippery slope! I am on a similar journey but on a low spend rather than a no spend(because if I say no I will hyper focus on wanting it) but I am trying to be mindful of my spending and I am totally going to start writing down my thoughts on spending think that will really help, thank you for the inspiration! Congratulations on your wins 😊
You are right, I can try to make it work, and if it doesn’t, I’ll move to something I already have.
It’s not cheating you had it before and not spending money. It has to be inexpensive and paid off the gift card. Yes make an Amazon wishlist and if and when you get gift card you can make a purchase but much process the “why” behind the new item. Good luck beloved ❤
To the Question you asked us: You are trying to justify cheating...
I can see why some people were frustrated.
Use what youve got; NEXT year you could tally all the issues & come up with a better option. For now... Stick with what You have.
I adored my Planner for 2022 & 23, so for 2024 I went a size up thinking I could use the space difference. While I love the extra space, its not as convenient in size. So, I have this year to decide: Do I like the smaller & write tinier *OR* keep the larger/get over the bulk for next years Planner... Isnt that part of what makes the following year fresh & fun?
Keep a Pro/Con List with ALL the paper you have.
Go for a walk instead of impulse buying, Neuroscience says replacement of habits is how we can shift our behavior
I disagree it was cheating and don’t see a reason for a viewer to be frustrated with a decision that is mine. I am ultimately glad I stepped back-I ended up going in a different direction with items already purchased.
I'm very frugal, so my solution is never to buy another product. I make it work somehow, white out or cover the calendar that is at issue. It's such a small problem imo, but I understand that's not how everyone would feel about it.
And as much as I didn’t want to, I’m forcing myself to feel that way too.
In my opinion… if the gift card totally pays for the inserts you want to purchase, I don’t think it’s cheating because they would be considered a gift 😁. Good luck with making your decision and I look forward to watching more of your videos!!! 😁
I would just use the weekly insert with a page in the middle, you want to see the calendar, just turn the page back, it's free 😊
I think the point is the calendar is not needed and takes up half of Sunday space
That was the plan, just didn’t realize the calendar would be on every other Sunday.
Can you maybe make a list of reasons why this insert is not working for you? Is there something you could do to fix it, like you fixed your chair problem without getting a whole new insert?
Hmm. That’s a good point! I immediately looked at the disappointment of the layout instead of how I could make it work anyway.
@@samplans think about it this way: the Sunday space issue will potentially come up only once every two weeks. One day out of fourteen. Maybe you could review your inserts from the past to see how often you need more space than the smaller Sunday gives you in this insert? If it is something you will have to deal with every week, than it is one situation. But if you need a lot of space on Sundays only occasionally, than you might be able to get that space by, for example, covering the calendar with a sticky note, using the notes page that you mentioned inserting for extra space, etc.
I’m on a no buy this year as well… and I have determined that gift cards are free FUN money to help me through.
My bestie and I are both on no-buys this year as well. However, her rule has always been gift cards are fair game. If someone gives you money, it's the same as giving a gift. The only difference is you're picking the gift. But technically, they're buying it for you!
This Christmas, I was going to give my bestie an Amazon gift card. However, I made the mistake of putting the money into my own Amazon gift card balance--which meant I couldn't buy her the gift card with it! My son (who is a freaking genius) suggested I ask her what she would've bought with the card, then simply buy that for her. So, that's what I did. She chose a Hobonichi Weeks (the irony, right?). She's been wanting to try one for a long time, but refused to buy one for herself. However, since I bought it for her as a gift, it didn't break her no-buy! Or mine, since I wasn't buying it for myself! lol
Having said all that, I do see the point that a lot of you guys made here, that using the gift card to buy those inserts could potentially be a slippery slope. And just like you fixed your chair issue with a cushion, you can probably fix the insert issue with either correction tape or a sticker. If that's the only thing keeping you from using the inserts, that's what I'd do.
In other words, I support both sides here! Which means I'm no help at all! lol But seriously, it sounds like you've already got your solution, so good job! 💖
I like the shopping need analysis.
I love seeing so many people strive for no/low spending in 2024. I've left my fancy (expensive) planners behind. In September I bought a composition book and created a planner for 3 months. It was an experiment, and an opportunity to learn. Now, I allow myself one composition book planner per month. My health log, reading log, and Bible study/journal, each are a separate composition book, and run until full. I created graph paper habit trackers and routine checklists, and glue them in the book. I got a desksize calender at $🌳, tear off the month I'm working on and trim it to make a 2 page monthly calender in the front of my composition book planner. So far, it's working. (I used one for December, am currently using January, and setting up February) the actual creating of the monthly planner feels therapeutic.
I bought a monthly planner from the dollar tree, and a composition notebook and did a diy planner. Instead of buying a hobonichi cousin (I think that's what it is called). Just finished 🤞 that I will like it.
@@sarahlefton9007 the creating makes me so happy. I hope you like it!
i loved this video so much. keep em coming!
Sticking with the whole “let it sit” practice, could you not try to use them for a month or so and see if you can make them work? If they just absolutely don’t work for your brain or your schedule then I say a gift card purchase is totally acceptable. Most of the time gift cards are given so that a person can buy something they want not need so I don’t feel like it’s cheating. But you also can flex your new ability to work with what you have first.
I'm doing a "no stationery spend" this year. I am going to use the stationery items I already have and not buy anything new. I do have some exceptions. I am allowed to buy ONE planner for 2025, I am allowed to buy The Budget By Paycheck workbook from The Budget Mom for 2025, I am allowed to get my Traveler's Notebook customized by Baum-Kuchen, and I am allowed to buy a new fountain pen for my birthday. My goal is to save up for the items I am allowing myself to purchase. I am also limiting my time on social media so as not to be influenced and I am also writing the things I want to purchase on a wish list to buy later or perhaps, not at all. I am 8 days in and haven't purchased any stationery related items.
YES! No spend I’m trying so hard so I can snowball credit cards❤ my goal pay down mortgage
Ooh! I'd love to know which King book you read!! 😀Seriously, do what you need to do. Restriction will equal rebounding. Honestly, placing a bunch of arbitrary rules upon yourself will equate to restriction which will lead to the eventual pendulum swing of rebounding. I get the notion but maybe go with a "low buy" over a "no buy". Guardrails versus a straight jacket 😉
I felt like I needed a straight jacket though! And I read Holly.
I would say if you have a gift card, you should be able to use it. I’m glad you enjoyed some Stephen King I haven’t read that one yet.
I’ve been reading his books since I way too young to read them. 😅
@@samplans I've yet to read Holly! Did you like it? I've been a Constant Reader since I was 12. I don't like his new stuff nearly as much as his older stuff, though. I haven't heard anyone talk about Holly yet so I've been curious....
Awesome! Look at you go! 🎉🎉
Thank you!
A gift card is a GIFT. I think it doesn't count against your no-buy because you are not using your personal money/adjusting your budget.
It's not cheating, it's a gift 📦 😂❤
You can’t fault me for trying!
@@samplans you go girl
Stick with what you’ve got! It’s just week 1 ick, it’ll pass 🙏🏻
Well, I started several Weeks ago, but I’m going to. 😅
I feel like the mini month calendar is such a nit-picky thing, that if you can cover it I would. Its on sunday once every 2 weeks, look back to see how much space you used in the past for Sunday.
I wouldn't spend the money. I'd make it work some way. I feel there may be something i can better use that gift card for. Technically thats income from affiliate links not a "gift".
I have decided to suspend my destash some of my unused planners & covers until March or July. That money is going to be saved.
Yes, that space probably isn’t needed as desperately as it first seemed when I realized.
It’s really ok !
You are in the minority here with that opinion. 😅
Not sure if anyone suggested this already, but why don’t you keep your original idea where you put the graph paper down the center splitting the two weeks for you to do list and just cut a notch out of that to do list paper so you could see the mini calendar from the previous week For the next week. Let me know if that makes sense? It’s a bit of cutting but it’s pretty easy and you wouldn’t have to break your no-buy. Hope that helps! Thanks for sharing your journey with us and good luck!
Can your husband print the calendar on the one side of the page?
I don’t think the gift card is cheating. But if you can figure out the inserts without spending money, that’s def a win!
I don’t think it’s cheating if you use a gift card, but the goal of this, in my opinion, is to stop excessive consumerism and to use what you have. Just think about and make sure there’s a REAL NEED for the new inserts before you purchase.
First, high fives all around Sam. Give yourself grace. Feel like you’ve taken five steps forward and you’re sweating yourself for a pinky-toe back. I think using the GC to get the inserts you need to function properly, is absolutely not cheating! TIME is money, and printing, cutting & punching takes a lot of time. Besides, I think that’s what that GC is for. You’re an inspiration, keep up the amazing work. 💪🏻
Thank you so much, my friend. This is the voice I needed to hear. ❤️
How about giving it until end jan to see if you can make it work? If not use the gift card. I missed what you said you needed the ring planner for?
I checked back. “Sometimes I just feel like…..” is your reason. Try sitting with that feeling but not acting for longer. It’s those feelings that got you into a no spend. Will you really dig out old ring pages to read quotes or notes? You’ve said before you keep bound but not ring papers. Just my thoughts. I got inserts that are not what I wanted, but I’m going to live with them.
Yeah, I’m not going to buy a new insert.
I often manage to lose my favorite type of pencil, so I have to have a large number of them and if I couldn’t buy new one if I needed it, that would be very frustrating. I would imagine it would be frustrating if you couldn’t buy paper to add to your rings that you need to actually use and conserve you better so as I said, in the previous comment, use the gift card things that you need that are in your no buy list
Thanks for the comparison. 🤓
Do you need the space that the mini calendar is taking up? Would having a blank page in between the weeks allow for enough space to make up the space taken by the calendar?
The plan was to have a lined page in between all along. Do I “need” that space? Time will tell, likely not that desperately.
Furniture clearances coming
Oops I "accidentally" dropped my favorite mug and it broke 💔. Off to the thrift store today! 😊
lol, definitely not going to do that.
do you want to keep what you write on those pages forever? if not. it is just a place to write down some appointment and will be thrown away. to be honest, there would be millions moments to spend/cheat.
I will toss them…if half of Sunday wasn’t taken with the calendar, I wouldn’t even be considering it.
@@samplans do you have a lot of things to write on Sunday? you can use a sticky note or just write over it. My grandma said that if there is a rule, either keep it or toss it but never excuse it. there is always a chain reaction after a tiny excuse.
I say using the gift card for planner stuff is cheating. Use a white out roller on that little calendar and keep to your original plan. Save the Amazon money for when you actually need something - a new bra, cat food, something for the house, smaller clothes, etc
It 's January 6th. 😂 I see Gandalf slamming the staff: YOU SHALL NOT PASS! You've got this, Sam.
I do! And I’m not buying the inserts!
Well done!!!
IMO - gift cards are not cheating! And, it's not like your going on a planner spending binge.