Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Rule #5: Ask These Questions

This is sort of a follow-up to my rule about shopping. If I must go shopping and buy stuff, I try to remember to ask myself these questions, or at least some of them!

  • Do I need it?
  • How many do I already have?
  • How much will I use it?
  • How long will it last?
  • Could I borrow it from a friend or family member?
  • Can I do without it?
  • Am I able to clean, lubricate and/or maintain it myself?
  • Am I willing to?
  • Will I be able to repair it?
  • Have I researched it to get the best quality for the best price?
  • How will I dispose of it when I'm done using it?
  • Are the resources that went into it renewable or nonrenewable?
  • Is it made of recycled materials, and is it recyclable?
  • Is there anything that I already own that I could substitute for it?

I think I copied this list out of a book a while back, but I can't remember the source and couldn't find it online. If anyone knows who should be credited, please let me know. Not all of these questions relate directly to finances, e.g. things that are recyclable might actually be pricier, but it's a good guide to being a more responsible consumer in general.

9 comments:

Ms. Sheila Whotiger said...

I needed this list. I am in a slump right now. This was right on time.

Anonymous said...

Just started reading your blog and came across your list. This is great. I am definitely printing this out and pasting it into my planner where I can see it everyday!

Anonymous said...

Part of your list belongs to Amy Dacyzn who writes the Tightwad Gazette. Great book and she has a newsletter also.

Anonymous said...

That's a great list to consider for a "stuff-obsessed" society. I think it's great to think a little bit about your environmental impact along with spending your money.

yasmin said...

I agree, it's a good list. I believe I've seen it before on the website for Buy Nothing Day UK, but can't seem to find the link now.

Anonymous said...

Interesting piece you go there...

-Steven Burda
www.linkedin.com/in/burda

Anonymous said...

Do you memorise this list, or do you carry it with you? And how long have you been using it?

Madame X said...

I don't have it memorized word for word, but I definitely try to think about these questions whenever I am shopping! Unfortunately I can't say I always say no to buying something based on the answers. But some of the time is better than none of the time!

Unknown said...

Could it be this book: "Lighten Up" by Peter Walsh?
http://www.amazon.com/Lighten-Up-Love-What-Happier/dp/1439155143