The term “conscious consumption” has been used in many ways.
Some consider this to be purchasing products with the impact on the environment in mind.
Others think about the impact the supply chain has on workers around the globe.
Being mindful of what we are buying.
Striving to bring less stuff into our homes.
Supporting businesses in our local community.
I recently heard someone apply the idea to content consumption.
Curating the books and podcasts we choose to use.
Being mindful of our latest Netflix binge.
Ensuring we aren’t wasting days away scrolling social media.
My Perspective
I believe the shift to conscious consumption ties to our feeling of overwhelm.
The trends suggest that the movement from conspicuous to conscious consumption took a leap forward with the Great Recession in 2009-2011.
People took a step back and evaluated where they were spending their money.
The pandemic took us on another phase of this journey.
Spending expended time in our homes we evaluated our life and how we wanted to fill it.
The shift is slow.
Yet, we are overwhelmed.
With our stuff.
Our social media feeds.
Our work.
Too much.
Shifting our mindset to one of conscious consumption can reduce the noise.
We can approach all areas of our life with intentionality.
What is necessary and what is just “extra”?
Your Turn
Does your life feel too full?
What areas feel the most overwhelming?
How could you leverage the concept of conscious consumption to be more intentional?