Let’s jump right to it: March was another successful No Buy Month for me!

I had some tempting moments (mostly with potential clothing purchases) but I made it through. I had some business events that I felt I needed new clothes for and I was pretty close to giving in and justifying the purchase(s).

But, I decided the better course of action was to practice some gratitude for what I already owned and just wear that. I took a moment and acknowledged these thoughts and then decided to let them go.

Yes, my mindfulness practice saved me about $300!

This is a shorter Re-Cap because honestly I don’t have a lot to share. I’m sticking to my set goals and while I’ve got some room for improvement, I feel like this year I am building the kind of discipline I want. I am cleaning out old habits like over-thinking and over-spending, and making way for new and better habits: like reading more and increasing my daily workout time.

Spending for March 2026

I spent a little less on food this month, where my “other” category was higher as I had an eye exam and needed to purchase contacts and new glasses. I also made some charitable donations, and purchased birthday gifts for family.

Progress

I’ve completed one quarter of the year, and stuck with my own set goals. Mindfulness and meditation have helped me get through this, and my practice is only getting stronger.

I don’t want to underestimate the rest of this No Buy Year and think I can just coast until the end. This is about more than just saving money, it’s an opportunity to reset my brain and turn my focus to things I want to do, or should be doing.

Yes I am saving money. But there’s little things also:

• I’m don’t have to recycle a bunch of boxes from online purchases
• I’m not constantly thinking about packages being delivered
• I’m consuming less plastic overall
• I’m learning more patience and delayed gratification
• I’m spending more time at the gym, or outside walking
• I’m reading more each day, and working through the modest 21 books on my TBR

Overall, I’m really proud of myself. I have an overall goal that technically ends on December 31, 2026. But one thing that’s on my mind is: How do I carry this forward? How does this shape my spending in 2027 and beyond?

If you’re working through any kind of No Buy (year or month), I’d love to hear how things are going for you in the comments.