The Year of Less

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In her late twenties, Cait Flanders found herself trapped in a cycle of consumerism: earn, buy, want, and repeat. Despite overcoming nearly $30,000 in debt, her old habits resurfaced, leaving her unfulfilled. Realizing that her purchases weren't bringing happiness or helping her achieve her goals, she embarked on a challenge: a year without shopping, except for essentials like groceries and toiletries. During this transformative year, Cait not only limited her shopping but also worked to consume less in various aspects of her life. She decluttered her apartment, eliminating 70 percent of her belongings, learned to repair items instead of discarding them, explored the zero waste movement, and imposed a television ban. Each step revealed that reducing consumption led to greater fulfillment. The challenge became particularly significant during difficult times, prompting Cait to confront her reliance on shopping, alcohol, and food, and to recognize the true costs of these habits. With no vices to fall back on, she altered long-standing behaviors and discovered what genuinely mattered to her. Blending her personal journey with insightful guidance, this narrative encourages readers to reflect on their own attachments and consider a path toward simplicity.