RANT: Consumerism

I know, it seems a little funny that I would be one to rant about consumerism. Anyone that knows me knows I love to shop and find that great deal! But after reading Stolen Lives, and a few other books soon to be brought to this blog, it's tough to want to spend money knowing so many are out there with so little.

Consumerism seems to have heightened considerably over the years. Gone are the days of Christmas being contained between the day after Thanksgiving and New Years. Now Christmas starts before Halloween, and even Labor Day. In one department store, I actually saw the Christmas display go up in August this year! And don't even get me started on Black Friday.

It's all so excessive.

But yet, so easy to give into.

So this year...I'm trying these tricks to keep in check:

• Only go shopping when absolutely necessary (no window shopping!)
• Use a list, and stick to it.
• Don't buy anything on sale or clearance, unless I'd be willing to buy it full price.

My hope is that these tricks will help me to spend less, give more, and avoid having to donate several trash bags full of hardly-worn clothes to goodwill again this year.