“Enough to keep me happy, but not more to ruin my happiness.”
That’s what a founder from Goa wrote when we asked people at our first-ever stall, to write down what they wanted to manifest this festive season. Such simple words, but they carried a lot of truth we often otherwise forget in our rush to buy, own, and show.
Well, hello! Our favourite time of the year is here, and everyone’s getting ready to welcome the festive season. Streets are livelier, plans are being made, and of course, shopping is in full swing. New outfits, gifts, and endless “Add to cart” moments. We all love it. It’s fun, social, and part of our culture. But often, the thrill of buying doesn’t last as long as we imagine, and we’re left feeling a little less satisfied than we expected.
Shopping mindfully doesn’t mean not shopping. It means making small changes that help us spend without regret.
- Sleep on it: When something catches your eye, don’t buy it immediately. Keep it in your cart for 24 hours. Most impulse purchases fade by the next day.
- Pay COD: Choose Cash on Delivery when possible. Physically paying makes you more aware of what’s leaving your pocket.
- Set a “festive budget”: Before the season starts, decide how much you can spend on celebrations, clothes, food, and gifts. Stick to it. You’ll still enjoy, but without the post-festival panic.
- Practice intentional buying: Buy things that add value to your life, not just your wardrobe. A well-made pair of shoes, a book, or a meal with someone you care about often brings more lasting happiness than something bought just for trend’s sake.
- Track your spends: Seeing where your money goes changes how you spend next time.
- Experiences over excess: Instead of another online buy, plan a small trip, a meal with friends, or a day with family. What we remember most aren’t the things, but the moments.
Mindful shopping is not about restriction. It’s about realising that contentment doesn’t come from what we own, but how we use what we have. And if you’re trying to learn how, join the community, download Moneybar, where people share stories, small wins, and smarter money habits that make sense.
This festive season, let’s redefine what it means to spend well, with purpose, with balance, and with heart.
Paweii Kayina
founder@moneybar.in