It’s my constant delight to look around my home and realise I am in the lucky, privileged position of living like an empress.

I flick a light switch and have unimaginable power at my fingertips. I turn on TV and have the whole world under my surveillance. My phone opens universes. I open my pantry and it speaks abundance. My wardrobe is cloth of gold and spun silver.

Not quite really that last one. But close enough.

I also see waste. A lot of waste from me, and obscene cumulative waste from human consumption across the planet .

So in 2025, I am jumping on the No Buy trend.

Starting Christmas Day 2024, I aim to get through a year without purchasing any new clothes, accessories, makeup or gym gear.

Things I can do:

• I can spend on food, as much (if I want) as my budget permits.
• I can spend on toiletries, if I’m replacing something I truly need, if I have no supplies or alternatives left, and if I buy from my local pharmacy or supermarket.
• I can spend on hair cuts but it’s going to stay a low-maintenance bob through 2025.
• I can have that linen cardy thing professionally mended.
• I can spend on social activities. Go for it.
• My gym is social.

As I type this, I realise my dopamine cravings are likely to find outlets beyond buying for my personal appearance.

Household appliances, household decor, bed linen, home entertainment subscriptions, books… No, no, no, no and no. Not buying it. I have a library card. I have everything an empress needs.

Here goes. Let the reign of restraint roll.