Why you should buy less, but buy better in 2023

It’s 2023. New year, new you, right? Maybe also new wardrobe, new furniture, new car even. When we ring in the changes, set ourselves goals and aim to work towards a new and improved life, it can be easy to turn to material things.

The idea that buying lots of new stuff will make us feel good is nothing new. That instant gratification that releases the sweet dopamine hit becomes addictive. But, buying loads of new things can be negative. Often, it’s easy to forget about the impact on the environment, on retailers, even on your own health.

At Ely Mattress, we believe you deserve luxury. You might feel you can’t afford to buy everything you want at a higher price point, which is understandable. That’s why we’re here to explain why you should buy less but buy better in 2023!

Buying Less Can Make You Happier

We live in a capitalist society, where the idea that the more things you own, the happier you will be. Social media has made it difficult not to be sucked into the compare and despair cycle, which frequently encourages us to part with our cash. With this attitude, clothing has grown cheaper, and fast fashion the preferred clothing source for many.

Fortunately, digitialisation has enabled greener companies to cut through the noise. Consumers are shifting towards more planet-conscious brands, as well as realising happiness isn’t tied to any old stuff.

Surely, if buying produces feel-good chemicals, then shopping less will stunt your happiness? Well, tell that to anyone who has struggled to open their wardrobe without being crushed by a clothes avalanche. Or someone who regularly stubs their toes on pieces of furniture as they weave their way through an over filled room. Focussing on buying less, and making sure it’s actually something we want, can lead to higher levels of satisfaction.

There are a number of other benefits when you buy less but better, which also contribute to an increased sense of overall happiness.

Buy Better for Your Health

We’ve mentioned fast fashion, and how it’s better for the planet to shop more sustainably. This, of course, is a hugely important issue. But, people tend to forget about their own personal health when shopping.

It might not be obvious what the link is here, but the cheap products you buy could actually be impacting your health. Synthetic materials usually contain plastics. With these come harsh toxins and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These impact air quality, and can irritate your nose, lead to headaches, and even cause allergic reactions. Found in solvents, glues, paints, cleaning products, and even soft furnishings, you could be surrounding yourself with harmful chemicals without even realising. Ely Mattress ensures a toxin-free sleep, thanks to our totally natural mattress. 

Earn Extra Cash

Buying less but better in 2023 could actually lead to you saving, possibly even earning, more money. We’re not denying that buying better typically means a bigger price tag, but hear us out.

Switching from being an impulsive consumer to a conscientious shopper usually results in more considered purchases. Because you’re only buying things you really want or need, you make fewer purchases. Even with more expensive items, you could save money. It all adds up, after all.

As for earning extra cash, it’s time to worship the second-hand market. Buying second-hand opens access up to more expensive brands at a lower price. Equally, it creates an opportunity for you to sell your old stuff. Apps like Vinted or Depop are perfect for clearing out unloved items and earning money for it.

Support Independent Retailers & Craftspeople 

With rising costs harshly affecting businesses, there’s never been a more important time to support local and independent. Forecasting trends for 2023, Forbes predicts that communities will play a significant role in how people shop throughout the coming year. 

Strong links between shopping and social media have meant consumers enjoy and expect entertainment and personality from the people they buy from. If you identify with this, try thinking even further beyond the social media profile to the people behind it. Independent retailer and craftspeople are passionately creating quality products for you to enjoy, whilst earning a living. Isn’t that something special you’d like to be a part of?

Buy Better with Ely Mattress

Feeling more connected to the things you own helps you to appreciate them more. If bed and sleep is something you appreciate, then buy less but better in 2023 with Ely Mattress.

Give yourself the healthiest, gentlest sleep with a luxurious natural mattress. Carefully crafted in England, using the finest sheep wool and horse hair, our mattresses provide the perfect support for all bodies. Sleep soundly without VOCs or toxins, and rest easy knowing you’ve done something kind for the planet.

To learn more about what else an Ely Mattress can do for you, head to our website.