My No Spend Year | Michelle McGagh | TEDxManchester

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  • Опубліковано 28 тра 2024
  • Michelle McGagh is no stranger to writing about the merits of saving. But how much did she really know about her own spending?
    Last year, she set herself the challenge of only spending money on essentials for a year. Her challenge to stop “squandering” money became a book called The No Spend Year, and saved her £22,000. Learn the reasons why Michelle did it, what she learned about herself, consumerism and why we spend.
    Personal Finance Journalist Michelle has spent more than a decade writing for titles such as The Guardian, City Wire, AOL and Money Observer.
    This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

КОМЕНТАРІ • 661

  • @lac28ify
    @lac28ify Рік тому +23

    My NO SPEND YEAR starts today!

  • @nwolinsP
    @nwolinsP 5 років тому +577

    I am embarrassingly cheap. A couple of years back Aldi's raised the price of their bean burritos from 30 to 35 cent and, and lower the size from 3.5 to 3 oz. I am not over it.

    • @niviamaeva
      @niviamaeva 5 років тому +26

      lol lol lol lol I know the feeling. I would walk a mile more just to save 30p on a milk carton ... or filling up the super market basket but return everything back to shelves? lol lol We are scattered out there, don´t worry, you are not alone.

    • @MorgaineRiddlePrince
      @MorgaineRiddlePrince 4 роки тому +8

      How a lot of people feel about fuel.

    • @vickiepaul8258
      @vickiepaul8258 4 роки тому +3

      Me either. I notice when you want more (or the same) of my money but you take away the amount, or the quality you provide. Happens all the time, and I act accordingly.

    • @kdhovis8665
      @kdhovis8665 4 роки тому +2

      ❤ Aldi's * Blue Corn Tortilla Chips * Salsa * and * Hazelnut Coffee Creamer!!!

    • @rachelshelley4779
      @rachelshelley4779 4 роки тому +7

      I'm with you. They did that with celery here in the states and I refused to buy anymore until they lowered the price. I ran into a gentlemen in the store who agreed with me. The two of us must have successfully boycotted celery because it dropped a little in price. hahaha... still not over it. ;)

  • @AuthenblissityVlogs
    @AuthenblissityVlogs 5 років тому +57

    I'm currently on a no-buy year, and it has completely changed my outlook on life. I used to be obsessed with stuff, and now I know I don't need any of that. It's been amazing to discover what's truly important to me.

  • @huckster955
    @huckster955 4 роки тому +41

    Love how you mentioned that having financial security feels better than any short term purchase can. Fantastic talk!

  • @melissafarrand5663
    @melissafarrand5663 11 місяців тому +8

    I’ve watched this video every year since it’s been uploaded. It’s the most inspiring Ted Talk to me.

  • @naomiking2442
    @naomiking2442 6 років тому +724

    That picture is EXACTLY how I felt when we paid off our mortgage in 8 years 10 months!! Stuff is totally overrated and freedom from debt is totally Amazing! Great talk!

    • @siyandankundla-mgudlwa1888
      @siyandankundla-mgudlwa1888 5 років тому +1

      So true

    • @conman1136
      @conman1136 5 років тому +2

      They call it a death pledge for a reason

    • @evl457
      @evl457 5 років тому +4

      Impressive!!! How much did you pay off per year?

    • @tkung9733
      @tkung9733 5 років тому

      @@conman1136 m mlmmpmpmp mmmmlmmml m mm mmm m mmmlm m p no m mm mm mm m mm mm mm mm mm

    • @CooCuMbEr
      @CooCuMbEr 4 роки тому +1

      Brilliant... I hope to have my mortgage done by 50
      Im 37 now and im overpaying my 10% every month also saving into an isa for when my fixed rate is ended so i have a nice deposit for the renewal :!!
      Well done!

  • @dottieland7061
    @dottieland7061 4 роки тому +15

    I love this talk, consumerism, makes me feel ill and i only shop second hand and purchase food from discount stores. I live in one of the the most advanced countries in the world , japan, but I found my dream job, working in a second hand clothing shop, visiting parks more and riding my bike. 70p for a book I love and 70p for a dress that I will wear. Yes please. My bills have cut in half and applicate my wardrobe more.
    I can visit my family back in the uk twice a year now, 2 years ago no way. But now I am happy and content. Commercialism Is rubbish

  • @ricardoc.
    @ricardoc. 2 роки тому +7

    I think one thing is missing: being able to give more. Sharing a part of what we have is one of the pillars of true happiness.

  • @innerpeaceproject
    @innerpeaceproject 6 років тому +246

    Being $130,000 in debt was life-changing for me. It forced me to learn to manage my money and do what she talks about. By changing the way I spent my money, I was able to get completely our of debt which was priceless!

    • @MyLevel10Life
      @MyLevel10Life 6 років тому +4

      Taylor Kay Stephens that’s amazing! I’m so inspired!

    • @hannw7
      @hannw7 5 років тому +5

      How long did it take you? Inspiring!

    • @4everu984
      @4everu984 5 років тому

      Taylor Kay Stephens d

    • @1MinuteFlipDoc
      @1MinuteFlipDoc 5 років тому +2

      and now you are a physician?

  • @yourmajesty3569
    @yourmajesty3569 6 років тому +232

    There was a time after my divorce when I was homeless (sleeping on my friend's livingroom floor), jobless, and pretty depressed.
    It took me six months to finally pick myself up.
    That 6 months of having nothing changed my life.
    10 years later I still find myself disenchanted with consuming and spending unnecessarily.
    I live debt free.

    • @jakeigoe2578
      @jakeigoe2578 6 років тому +18

      Once I went through a similar period to this. It also taught me the value of other forms of capital. Like friends who offer the couch or help you with an "in" for jobs, skills such as knowing how to cook really good s**t with staples, being fit to move yourself without a car, etc. These things have amazing value to me when I'm put to the test. If a person is so inclined it can change you forever.

    • @MyLevel10Life
      @MyLevel10Life 6 років тому +1

      Kristin Poynter so inspired!

    • @LaurasLastDitch
      @LaurasLastDitch 5 років тому +26

      When I was a student, my parents stopped supporting me and I had to pay for everything myself (and I refused to get student loans). It taught me similar lessons. I wore shoes (that I found free) until the practically rotted off my feet, I scrounged soda cans to return for the deposit, and went to lots of music student recitals to eat the free food at the reception following. When I went out to eat with my friends, I ate the free chips and salsa (and the leftovers they didn't want). In the summer I crashed with friends or found summer opportunities that provided free room and board. It was practically a spend-nothing four years. What I learned during this time was how very little I needed to survive. I ended up paying off my first house in about 7 years, and my husband and I have never had to get "real" jobs. It's extremely freeing not to be tied down to work like everyone else is.

    • @leilanidru7506
      @leilanidru7506 5 років тому +4

      Laura's Last Ditch Vintage Kitchenwares that’s sooo inspiring 😌 I’m glad u made it. Any advice u have to give for those who are gonna be on their own pretty soon?

  • @jankoch
    @jankoch 5 років тому +130

    One must not forget, for most people walking this earth it is their No Spend Life!

    • @juliagrusz
      @juliagrusz 4 роки тому +2

      I love this, it's so true

  • @flamingowilliams9664
    @flamingowilliams9664 6 років тому +714

    "We are all trying to buy what it is impossible to sell."

    • @jasenkavukelic5047
      @jasenkavukelic5047 5 років тому +6

      Flamingo Williams To i jest osnova potrošačke kulture, ta praznina u nama - svi pokušavamo kupiti ono što nije moguće prodati.

    • @suziecreamcheese211
      @suziecreamcheese211 5 років тому

      Flamingo Williams what? Sincerely what do you mean.

    • @Deci_Bella
      @Deci_Bella 4 роки тому +10

      @@suziecreamcheese211 This is what Google Translate says:
      This is the basis of consumer culture, that void in us - we are all trying to buy what is not possible to sell.

    • @snowbird6855
      @snowbird6855 4 роки тому +17

      It would make more sense if it read:. "We are all trying to buy that which is not for sale". ie, happiness and peace.

    • @DaPoopIsInDaPudding
      @DaPoopIsInDaPudding 4 роки тому +1

      Suzie cream cheese look within. Everyone thinks buying things will make them happy. It won’t. All you need you already have.

  • @marshaalison1569
    @marshaalison1569 5 років тому +100

    This is how I've lived for a long time.its great! I just pay mortgage and necessities. No going out, no eating out, no books (I use a library), no cosmetics/clothes/shoes (I make do with what I've got). Saved a fortune and I love it!

    • @beemeupscotty4455
      @beemeupscotty4455 5 років тому +10

      Marsha Alison What are you 'saving a fortune' for?

    • @aviewer390
      @aviewer390 5 років тому +5

      What do you do for fun?

    • @franniepan
      @franniepan 5 років тому +15

      @@aviewer390 prob spending quality time with the people who matter to her, reading a book, enjoying time in nature, going to the beach, sleeping in, crafting, painting, drawing...... The list goes on :)

    • @EJ2K2K
      @EJ2K2K 5 років тому +9

      There gets to a point where saving that money becomes pointless if you're not finding anything to do with it, especially if you're financially covered. What are you saving for exactly?

    • @franniepan
      @franniepan 5 років тому +19

      @@EJ2K2K I for one save for my daughter so that she has money to use in order to study, buy a house, a car or whatever she would like to do with it. There are people who think of people besides themselves.. ;)

  • @brennaeschweiler6031
    @brennaeschweiler6031 5 років тому +64

    Boy, I wish this video had come up in my queue before Amazon Prime Day...

    • @janetpattison8474
      @janetpattison8474 4 роки тому

      Brenna Eschweiler .....yes, I wish I would have learned all of this essential info about 25 years ago, b4 making big mistakes w/ money!

    • @thebrowngirlwiththecamera
      @thebrowngirlwiththecamera 3 роки тому

      That funny Prime Amazon day occurred just the other day.

  • @annemettemertz2421
    @annemettemertz2421 6 років тому +285

    I am 23. It took me 5 months off working to really realise the value off money. I am gonna live tiny, which makes me owning my own home, be debt free and have an emergency buffer before turning 30. Which will change everything for me. I am sure this is for the better.

    • @Walperion_Music
      @Walperion_Music 5 років тому +7

      Yes it is.
      Btw 6 months have passed since your comment, are you in a happier place already?

    • @thehorsebackheroine5950
      @thehorsebackheroine5950 5 років тому +2

      And Anne Mette Mertz...are you happier and have you made progress? :-)

    • @fargoloomis3569
      @fargoloomis3569 5 років тому +2

      Anne Mette Mertz I’m already there and it’s glorious.

    • @HelloMsAnny
      @HelloMsAnny 5 років тому +6

      As someone who purchased their home at 28, it will be. I'm not debt free because I have a mortgage, but that's the only debt I have and it's worth it.

    • @charles910
      @charles910 5 років тому

      Very good plan. Be sure to add family and kids before turning 30.

  • @chrish2277
    @chrish2277 2 роки тому +5

    Living frugal, this is how I manage to raise a family, including my husband who can't work full time, on one income. I try to buy nothing brand new if I can avoid it. It's amazing what people throw away. I also try to give things away too. Cook from scratch. It really changes the way you live.

  • @jjgffhvfe
    @jjgffhvfe 5 років тому +71

    I don't know if everyone heard this but she's had a NO SPEND YEAR IN LONDON

  • @Moonchilling
    @Moonchilling 5 років тому +450

    “Was without my phone”. Felt free”. It’s funny. I grew up in the age of no dvr, no, cell phones, no voice mail, no internet. I remember how freeing it was.....no one keeping tabs on you, you not keeping tabs on the latest tweet....it’s time to go back to that again.....

    • @Fatima-fq9gr
      @Fatima-fq9gr 5 років тому +2

      Paperchica yes

    • @greenkitty82
      @greenkitty82 5 років тому +5

      Paperchica I agree but the challenge will be to get the new generations to do that when they are so used to a world of social media and internet. It's really not good all the time as you can't have a conversation with someone without them being preoccupied with their phone. It's such a shame as I remember the 90's and it was great time to be alive! ❤️🙃

    • @snowbird6855
      @snowbird6855 4 роки тому +8

      @@greenkitty82 it's true, smart phones are amazing, yet in many ways they have ruined our lives. Try to have a conversation with anyone and you'll notice their attention span is gone after you've spoken two sentences

    • @vickiepaul8258
      @vickiepaul8258 4 роки тому

      @@greenkitty82 If they can't pay for it they don't have a choice!

    • @lauracottril4518
      @lauracottril4518 4 роки тому +2

      I hated when I had to wear a pager. The beginning of the end!

  • @mentalparentals
    @mentalparentals 6 років тому +446

    It’s a shame her jokes fell on such a flat audience! Great talk. Money makes me happy in providing a decent holiday every year. I could happily go on a minimal spend for a year although I think I’d struggle going as frugal as this lady!

    • @thelissoway6758
      @thelissoway6758 5 років тому +9

      Im just doing a month right now and am so inspired. I want to no spend on anything so that i will have money for experiences. I want to do fun activities and go on holidays. Be able to not work as much and enjoy life to the fullest

    • @vadinandez
      @vadinandez 5 років тому +21

      Yeah, that audience sucked.

    • @greenkitty82
      @greenkitty82 5 років тому +1

      The LissoWay fantastic! Keep it up! 👍 As long as the trips and holidays and experiences give you real value they are always worth your money! But it's also psychological trap we find ourselves in when we spend money - we worry others won't like us if we don't buy so and so or do that thing and we need to really get out of that mindset if we want to be happy. If people won't like us for doing something or for not doing something, they are not the sort of people we need in our lives.

    • @LOCKEYJ
      @LOCKEYJ 5 років тому +3

      It’s never the audience that’s flat.

    • @HelloMsAnny
      @HelloMsAnny 5 років тому +6

      Lol right, some of these audiences are so boring :O

  • @ShatteredRippleBooks
    @ShatteredRippleBooks 8 місяців тому +2

    I wish there was more to do in my town. I'm a shopping addict who is trying to cut down on my spending. I'm an emotional shopper so I have to work really hard on taking note of when I am likely to spend. Then stop myself which is hard coz the craving symptoms are a nightmare! I've started watching videos like this coz they help me refocus my attention on positive action against my addiction.

  • @captainheinie6355
    @captainheinie6355 5 років тому +4

    Four years ago. In short. First We did not pay the TV licence, as we do not watch TV. ( We have researched this first). Then cancelled our household contents insurance. then got rid of much of our unused stuff that we had not used for the past 6 months. If we 'need' anything (nothing so far) then we would go to the charity shop to buy things much cheaper, but only if we NEED it. It feels great. Done some other things just like Michelle. We feel free and we do not worry about it all. ........ We went on holiday together with what we had saved. We fasted once every month for 24 hours (only drinking water) Lost two and a half stone in the first year. Feel FANTASTIC.. You only live once. Greetings to all. Good video

    • @archaeobard1
      @archaeobard1 4 роки тому

      have you started paying your TV licence again now the rules have changed to say anyone with access to a device that can receive BBC iPlayer must pay for a TV licence, like a mobile, tablet, or PC? I didn't have to pay for a licence for 7 years after I got rid of my TV, but then BBC changed the rules so I'm forking it out again now even though I rarely watch anything.

  • @Cris-lt3dt
    @Cris-lt3dt 4 роки тому +6

    "Do I need it, or do I simply want it?"
    That's the question I've also been asking myself since 2014 every time I consider buying something, and it has completely changed the whole shopping game for me. When you stop and make yourself that question, you come to realise how few things we actually need. Loved this talk.

  • @AM-gv9db
    @AM-gv9db 6 років тому +55

    I really love this. Even though I'm not taking it that far I've decided to stop buying makeup and clothes for 6 months. Hopefully longer if it goes well. I've also started writing down all my expenses. So if I buy a soda for $2, I'm writing it down. It really puts it in perspective of how much I actually spend on snacks and soda (things I definitely don't need), and have put up a savings plan. I'm a student and only make about $300 a month, so I can't save a lot, but I'm hoping that with some dicipline and new thinking I can save at least $100 a month. It's going well so far, and I'm looking forward to saving up money and spending it on something that will actually make me happy :)

  • @TheJen2456
    @TheJen2456 4 роки тому +3

    My friend paid a lot of money to keep her stuff in a storage unit. Five years went by. When she went to look in the unit, most of the "stuff" was ruined by mold and mildew because she had not covered them properly. She was out of a lot of money storing "stuff" that she no longer needed.

  • @gazellepop
    @gazellepop 6 років тому +18

    A minimalist lifestyle makes you more mindful of how you spend your hard-earned wages and time, and opens your eyes to your relationships with those around you. Most of us are probably spending exorbitant sums on things we can make ourselves, all to chase a short-lived experience or emotion.

  • @SubhamBanik.
    @SubhamBanik. 3 місяці тому

    UA-cam should encourage this talk and push it to more and more feed. It is such a relevant topic to discuss especially with the youngsters.

  • @rebalanceyourself
    @rebalanceyourself 5 років тому +16

    I have the utmost respect for this lady! I feel like my "costa" coffee and expensive work snacks can be illiminated.. and I certainly now believe living a simplistic minimal life is key!

    • @Guernsey576
      @Guernsey576 4 роки тому

      Eliminated

    • @shreyasshreyas1267
      @shreyasshreyas1267 Рік тому

      Try Locally Available Seasonal Fresh Fruits available at a Low budget to Repalce them. They work Wonders!👍

  • @deeprollingriver5820
    @deeprollingriver5820 4 роки тому +4

    “Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose”. Yep. I’m pretty free and it feels pretty great.

  • @danielletong6100
    @danielletong6100 6 років тому +531

    I'm seriously wondering what my finances would look like if I actually ate all the food I bought from the market....? Like, I set a food budget, but then I don't eat the food, and eat out. So maybe I'll start by never eating out and finishing all the food I have at home.

    • @amberwhite1530
      @amberwhite1530 5 років тому +9

      D. Tong great idea! We never realize how much food goes to waste

    • @marystephens9244
      @marystephens9244 5 років тому +18

      Totally agree! I go grocery shopping and stop at a restaurant the very same night. I need to get serious about this

    • @thelissoway6758
      @thelissoway6758 5 років тому +26

      Not only eat all the fridge in your fridge but in your cupboards. Force yourself to only buy what you need to eat for a week and only buy as you truly need

    • @BlondeQtie
      @BlondeQtie 5 років тому +13

      what?!?! i rarely throw away food, ever!

    • @natahsasiwod8187
      @natahsasiwod8187 5 років тому

      Yes!! Me too @danielle tong

  • @beckiejbrown
    @beckiejbrown 4 роки тому +66

    I have to say a thank you for this, but also a thank you for acknowledging the people who do this already out of literally having so little. Right down to the 50p. That's me right now.

  • @Pkmn1990
    @Pkmn1990 6 років тому +20

    I’m going to try and do this in February and see how I get on!
    Kudos to this Lady she seemed quite nervous at first but soon overcame this, I really can resonate with her :)

  • @wilfredobernabe2184
    @wilfredobernabe2184 5 років тому +479

    I love this talk and the jokes. What a miserable audience.

    • @vadinandez
      @vadinandez 5 років тому +31

      I agree. Sucky audience.

    • @Theendlessriver77
      @Theendlessriver77 4 роки тому +32

      It’s in Britain. That’s how they are, stuffy and miserable. 😂

    • @mysteryegg340
      @mysteryegg340 4 роки тому +25

      @@Theendlessriver77 no we aren't. We are just more genuine. Laugh when it's funny, don't when it's not. Not to say we aren't (and the audience) amused. Just not fake like the Yanks.

    • @Theendlessriver77
      @Theendlessriver77 4 роки тому +16

      Mystery Egg I’m not a “yank” I’m from Sweden.

    • @brightonketochihuahuas1059
      @brightonketochihuahuas1059 4 роки тому +5

      Sunny W. I’m British and i found it funny !

  • @BetwixtDandD
    @BetwixtDandD 4 роки тому +7

    I'm on 'low buy' trying to do 'no buy'. But instead of getting rid off my stuff I'm reusing, repurposing , and upcycling the items I already own. I don't think it's fair to throw it all out or donate and have somebody else to deal with my 'junk'.

  • @bestrealtorintheworld7310
    @bestrealtorintheworld7310 5 років тому +36

    in 2008 I almost lost my house and I did lose my mind. Now I only work from home and live cheaply. I'll have my house paid off soon, I'm making double payments and then plan to take it easy. still work but never as hard as I was or am. there are 100s of tips to save money. a lot you can discover yourself. I don"t new electronics anymore and the corporations did this to themselves. I used to buy products which I had to send back because they broke sometimes 4 times in year. There are a lot of families that have 3 generations of people living in one house so you can pick up new and used items for pennies on the dollar. why don't they teach us in school to not go into debt? Another really bad recession is almost here and it's gonna make 2008 look like a day in Disneyland. Don't let this one surprise you like the last one did to me. if you drink stop it, if you smoke stop it. it will help you focus.

    • @jasenkavukelic5047
      @jasenkavukelic5047 5 років тому +2

      bestrealtor intheworld Thank you for this!

    • @StarJones1979
      @StarJones1979 5 років тому +3

      A watched a movie called the big short, last night about the housing bubble and recession. I felt sick to my stomach after because I knew it was bad but I never knew how bad. I feel it will be worse this time around. We all should prepare the best we can. Bless you all.

    • @elizabethpeterson56
      @elizabethpeterson56 4 роки тому

      sorry for your 2008 troubles. it can hang on for a long time. good to see you thrive now. i finally let the house go in favor of my mind. its opened up possibilities i would otherwise have ignored. still not easy but some peace works for me.

  • @NeliaRose
    @NeliaRose 6 років тому +135

    This is hands down one of my favourite ted talks! Its amazing how you start to create a different life for yourself just by not consuming in the way we a brought up to. Also living in London nearly killed me finically and so I left but I realise now if I had only embraced a more minimal and simple life earlier and realised what is truly worth me speeding my money on I would still be living there now. I find it hard being in cites because I can quickly get swept up into a more consumerist mindset but out in the country somehow it is easier for me to avoid that temptation. Over time I think I can get better about it so one day I will move back to London. Thank you for the video super inspirational !! :)

  • @lowcarbsocial1248
    @lowcarbsocial1248 6 років тому +188

    I try my best not to be materialistic, but I could be better. I have my books, note pads, phone, 3 pairs of shoes, walk everywhere, some simple make-up, and of course food. That's about it. Its about two suitcases worth. No furniture, no mortgage or car. I am an au pair in France and I am happy.

    • @ryanalexander3088
      @ryanalexander3088 6 років тому +17

      Katie Fodera I think you're doing alright 😊

    • @lowcarbsocial1248
      @lowcarbsocial1248 6 років тому +5

      Ryan Alexander Thank-you Ryan, many hugs xxx

    • @lizz9896
      @lizz9896 6 років тому +3

      Where do you think you have to improve?

    • @lowcarbsocial1248
      @lowcarbsocial1248 6 років тому +5

      Lizz i have a problem tossing out books..its hard For me to let them go.

    • @lizz9896
      @lizz9896 6 років тому +16

      maybe you can keep a notebook and write quotes directly from books that you like.
      That is what I do with my informative books.

  • @kitkatmisty9539
    @kitkatmisty9539 6 років тому +65

    I like how you add that not every one has disposable income. So many things mention how to save money with out thinking about those who don't earn that much were they budget so much.

  • @elizabethpeek6434
    @elizabethpeek6434 4 роки тому +11

    what a great talk! Encouraging, humorous, good pacing, fun pics and relevant anecdotes. Now, on to looking at my bank statements.

  • @claricequinntaylor3546
    @claricequinntaylor3546 5 років тому +27

    I have been living a minimalist lifestyle for a few months now and it is amazing! Going into not spending anything, I try my best not to spend any money I dont HAVE TO. My monthly income is about 1100 now(Working as much as I can) and my monthly expenses are around $850 with the only two bills I really have being Rent(And stuff to go with it) and my credit card bill. I live in Los Angeles in a 1 Bed 1 Bath Apt with two other people. I think its great and spending very little helps me a lot and allows me to save 10% of all mony I make!

    • @maidinh9768
      @maidinh9768 5 років тому +1

      You should buy a house when the right time come. Then get some room mates, they will help you pay your mortgage. Make your money work for you.

  • @AlvaSudden
    @AlvaSudden 5 років тому +20

    She is outrageously funny. I wish I knew her.

  • @ctankus
    @ctankus 6 років тому +162

    What a weird world we live in...people in these countries are challenging themselves to not spend money on anything but necessities while there are lots of people out there that can't even but the necessities. Just an observation, not a diss.

    • @privateperson5769
      @privateperson5769 Рік тому +8

      Yes totally ...great perception. Anyone ive spoken to who has been to Africa says the people are amazing...so happy ...yet they have next to nothing compared to some of us miserable people in the western capitalistic world

    • @privateperson5769
      @privateperson5769 Рік тому +5

      First world problems huh 😉😊

  • @amandak2352
    @amandak2352 5 років тому +4

    Very good talk! It's true that beyond a certain point it doesn't matter how much money you have, but what you do with it that counts. If you always spend more than you earn, it will never be enough. But if you budget and save and spend strategically, you can actually save up for things you may have once thought out of reach.

  • @alltheprettythings0613
    @alltheprettythings0613 5 років тому +2

    I'm doing this exact thing this year... After looking and my husband and I's budget, I realized I was the problem of our spending. I kept wanting to buy more, more more. My family and I decided to not eat out, and no junkfood for the first two months this year. So far we're doing good! And I have vowed to not buy any beauty products, or clothing, or any of those things for this whole year. We've already seen an influx in our bank where we've stopped eating out and we're able to spend extra at the grocery store on nicer foods. And I'm still staying strong to my no spend year. It's going to be a lot of work to resist the temptation to get things, but I'm pretty sure I can do it. In the end we want to buy our first home, so this will be a good start. Thanks for the video!

    • @hollandsharah5665
      @hollandsharah5665 5 років тому

      Project Panning Momma you wanna make extra cash or increase your credit score Follow @Lulzsecu on Instagram you can also text him on WhatsApp +1 (650) 542 0674
      Or text him directly (281) 607-0456
      He paid off my auto load and mortgage bills am left with no debt and no regret keep sharing his great work

  • @helenfay9465
    @helenfay9465 5 років тому +3

    Loved this talk. This lady made me realise that I have been living a frugal lifestyle for almost 11 years now, since with my family we bought a big van, got rid of all unnecessary stuff and went on the road. We now have our own place, have our own home, grow fruit and veg and make rustic signs and furniture from the wood around us. No debt. The reality is that I also don't save any money as our income is small, but this has set me thinking...What would make me really happy is to travel a little before my son is too 'grown-up' to want to go with me...maybe it's time to get an 'outside' paid job for a while...

    • @juditharsenault2131
      @juditharsenault2131 8 місяців тому

      How do you pay your school and county and town taxes with no income?

  • @museperuse7569
    @museperuse7569 5 років тому +14

    I did this as well! I spent an entire year doing exactly the same thing I bought nothing except bare essentials. It wasn’t really a money thing.. it was more about not consuming just to consume for ecological reasons. It was a really nice and quite easy year actually!

    • @kristysteffens
      @kristysteffens Рік тому +1

      Are you still doing this? How much have you saved?

  • @azarikaKZ
    @azarikaKZ 3 роки тому +1

    What an amazing talk, thank you so much! I've watched it few times and it keeps me going with my goals. I realised that I was literally draining my money on things that I didn't need. It's been over a year that I'm living a more minimalist lifestyle, don't remember when was the last time I bought new clothes or shoes (to be honest I have so much from my years of shopping, that it will last me another few years). I managed to get a small investment apartment in my home country which I'll pay off within a year. Of course it is not always easy, you have a lot of temptations along the way. People ask you : oh why don't you get a new phone or shoes, they look old. Or if you go to Instagram you feel that your life is boring and miserable. But in general I feel more free right now, slowly detaching from this modern life that is put upon us and going towards my goals.

  • @karenrolf2637
    @karenrolf2637 5 років тому +6

    Thank you so much for both this inspirational talk and an entire year spent experiencing what it was like not to spend money and the results of this. Your talk was organized, detailed, and inspirational! I can't thank you enough!

  • @Octoberstorm333
    @Octoberstorm333 6 років тому +22

    I’m trying to get there. I quite buying drugs like pot, now I’ve stopped buying things from the home decor store I work at (50% off is so dangerous). I’m only allowing myself to buy necessities. Accumulating unnecessary things actually makes you feel more stressed having physical clutter.
    It’d be nice to save up for something like a bike than save up for a new coat and shoes. It’d be nice to put money back for college.

    • @Octoberstorm333
      @Octoberstorm333 6 років тому +2

      No more fast food too 🙅

    • @greenkitty82
      @greenkitty82 5 років тому

      Great mindset, keep it up! Yes you have to try to train your mind and use mantras like "I have enough" "I am content" to resist the temptation to spend but also to ask if you really need it. Most of the time we don't and it's just a passing fancy but if you need to buy new things, then by all means buy it. Education is a great investment! 👍

  • @momof2momof2
    @momof2momof2 6 років тому +33

    Very difficult if you have children...but, I think we all could find ways to do better with our spending and saving.

    • @LindaASJ
      @LindaASJ 6 років тому +18

      momof2 Even more important to try if you have kids. Can you imagine how you could change their futures if they learned frugal lessons like this? What if they never had debt?

    • @amandaswan6595
      @amandaswan6595 5 років тому +16

      Children are as expensive as you let them be. I have three kids myself.

    • @emilylouise158
      @emilylouise158 5 років тому

      I pay 50% of my wage in childcare costs but I know I can be more frugle in other areas. Constantly skint!

  • @rach5516
    @rach5516 Рік тому +1

    This is one of the best ted talks I have heard. She makes so much sense.

  • @profusionfitness
    @profusionfitness 7 років тому +43

    what an inspiring speech , thank you !

  • @zhana4518
    @zhana4518 5 років тому +13

    Paying off your mortgage is NOT boring. It is a great goal. Did anyone see the series "Pay off Your Mortgage in Two Years", with Rene Carayol?

  • @bradbarber799
    @bradbarber799 5 років тому +4

    Great video. Identifying needs vs wants is a big start. I always make myself wait a few days or weeks for larger purchases before buying something I want. If I still thinking about it weeks later then I know I want it, but most items I forget about right away.

  • @Loeviis
    @Loeviis 6 років тому +58

    Such a great talk! Gather memories not possesions.

  • @sophiegrut805
    @sophiegrut805 4 роки тому +4

    This is such a great talk and so many unbelievably valid points! Things definitely don't make us happier, actually quite the contrary... they make us dependant and clog up our lives! Thank you sharing this experience!

  • @augustine.c8204
    @augustine.c8204 4 роки тому +2

    thanks for the message. no amount of short term spendings can amount to the joy of achieving a long term goal. needed this

  • @charles910
    @charles910 5 років тому +34

    Paid off my condo at 37, then my house at 45. Now money comes so easily and quickly because I don't need the money. It is true "To those who have everything, more will be given"

    • @loverrapeace6975
      @loverrapeace6975 4 роки тому +7

      I will take ur money if u don't need it.

    • @carochan86
      @carochan86 4 роки тому

      I hope I do get more " given". I try to give my time wisely at work to other departments when ours have nothing going on. Hopefully it pays off.

  • @sacredgroovin
    @sacredgroovin 4 роки тому +2

    That ‘no spend’ year sounds a lot like my ‘growing up poor’ years. That taught me to save up for quality items that would last a lifetime to not have to buy them again. It also taught me to treat my things with respect because I knew how much my parents sacrificed to buy me the gifts they could afford. I took care of them and still have held onto some of the toys and books I had. My favorite apartment has been a 1 room loft where I was forced to donate or sell things I had accumulated over the years. Now heard later in a 3 bedroom house, having to go back and relearn that’s lesson. Consumerist culture is a strange and addictive drug.

  • @natashaweedman4432
    @natashaweedman4432 5 років тому +1

    My husband and I recently moved to Finland from South Africa, and because everything is a lot more costly, we had to seriously change our spending habits. In South Africa we would go to a restaurant at least 2 times a week (or get take out), we would go to a bar and be free spending on alcohol because it was so cheap, and we had 2 cars that ate holes in our wallets (insurance and fuel). Now, we rely on public transport, we cook all our meals and maybe go to dinner once a month (its really expensive eating out here), our free time is spent walking our dog in a nearby forest, and we have cut down on alcohol. I mostly love living like this, only buying what I need ( i have always been frugal with buying clothing and make up etc.), purchasing food that will be eaten, rather than stuff that will just go to waste, and so on. Things I miss, admittedly, are my own transport and the socializing of going out for drinks with friends.

  • @gems3646
    @gems3646 6 років тому +14

    A way I save money is have 3 accounts. Current account, savings account and my own shopping allowance. I would have my wage go into current acc, then what I could save off that put in my savings acc (wouldn't have a card for this one) then put a small amount for myself into my shopping acc to spend on clothes, shoes....anything at all. My problem was shopping then the guilt of spending on myself lol so i gave myself the permission and a limit by having the 3rd account. Sounds simple but it really worked for me.

  • @irisxxxxxx
    @irisxxxxxx 3 роки тому

    This video has inspired me so much! I watched it a few years ago and after that I really went on a saving rollercoaster and only bought what was needed and made all my food myself and stuff like that. Not only did I save money but I got so much healthier! I lost weight and my insides just felt calm and how they should feel if that makes sense.. simply because I cooked all my meals with whole ingredients and routine in my life, nothing processed and stuff like that, just simple. Now I'm back to watching it again, because since last year I have been spending way to much again and eating take away way to often haha. This is for sure one of the most inspiring video's I have ever watched in my life! Thank you x

  • @Peppermon22
    @Peppermon22 5 років тому +52

    This is why I am disconnecting my internet. $500 a year is a vacation for my family. I will be more productive in my life at home and won’t be glued to a screen all day.

    • @markfoster1520
      @markfoster1520 4 роки тому +2

      But you will reply to this?
      "On my work connection."

    • @nalmolen9394
      @nalmolen9394 4 роки тому +5

      Disconnects internet
      *has teens*
      Ends up spending time locked in the bathroom to get some peace...

  • @outbackwack368
    @outbackwack368 5 років тому +105

    Most people spend money they DON'T have, to buy things they DON'T need, to impress people they DON'T like.

    • @greenkitty82
      @greenkitty82 5 років тому +2

      Outback Wack Fortunately I've never had that mindset so I'm in the minority! My philosophy is if people don't like you, tough.

    • @supriyasethi5535
      @supriyasethi5535 4 роки тому +1

      Well said @Outback wack

    • @lelexoxo303
      @lelexoxo303 4 роки тому +2

      @@supriyasethi5535 It's a Fighclub quote actually.

  • @Poppins242
    @Poppins242 7 років тому +7

    Love this talk. Thank you, Michelle, for being inspirational and carrying conviction to actually live this life for a year. Good job :)

  • @luvmusic540
    @luvmusic540 5 років тому +3

    One trick I use for my own spending is "delayed gratification". I made myself wait YEARS before allowing myself to buy my first IPhone. I haven't regretted it. I also wait and do lots of extensive research when buying cars (only buy used -- buying a car with a few thousand miles on it shaves thousands of $ off), Bluetooth speakers, furniture, computers, etc.

    • @hollandsharah5665
      @hollandsharah5665 5 років тому

      C Fitzl you wanna make extra cash or increase your credit score Follow @Lulzsecu on Instagram you can also text him on WhatsApp +1 (650) 542 0674
      Or text him directly (281) 607-0456
      He paid off my auto load and mortgage bills am left with no debt and no regret keep sharing his great work

    • @yehudahamer1655
      @yehudahamer1655 5 років тому

      The first five years of waiting were the hardest? :-)

  • @Hakkyou13
    @Hakkyou13 4 роки тому +4

    Definitely gonna stop eating out. Coffee and cookies I can prepare at home (I have one of those Mana bottles that keeps water piping hot hours later so I can refill my mug). And food, I need to adjust my tastes for home pack lunches - and actually make them. Only problem is how much food can you cram into your backpack with you books and clothing, onto crowded public transit, in -30 winter to keep you sustained for 7-9 hour day at school/from home.

  • @shauniaanzaldua3273
    @shauniaanzaldua3273 6 років тому +4

    This is exactly what I needed. Thank you.

  • @FiberFairy22
    @FiberFairy22 6 років тому +1

    SO AWESOME! Thank you for sharing your experience, it’s so meaningful beyond the money you save. Amazing how much life and people we experience when we slow down and look around, right!

  • @sarahcrawford3332
    @sarahcrawford3332 6 років тому +1

    Very Great Speech! Thank you!

  • @deesong6722
    @deesong6722 3 роки тому +3

    I love this talk!! I have many areas I can improve, and this is inspiring. Thank you for sharing!

  • @MarionFiedlerMusic
    @MarionFiedlerMusic 5 років тому +1

    thanks for sharing this. I can imagine it is hard to actually share the discoveries in this topic nobody really willingly wants to talk about. This is inspiring though. I cut my spendings over the year as well, and what I too did not expect were changes I observed in my habits and outlook. This was a cool confirmation and second perspective to hear about - THANKS!

  • @entfaltungsort
    @entfaltungsort 7 років тому +17

    Thank you for this fresh, authentic and practical talk!

    • @annesoper6137
      @annesoper6137 4 роки тому

      Her hair is not relevant to her talk !! Thank you Michelle.

  • @beckylolo1
    @beckylolo1 6 років тому +2

    Kudos for this incredible woman !!!!

  • @grumylynn
    @grumylynn 5 років тому +1

    Very motivating and inspiring. Thank you!

  • @Mbeck621
    @Mbeck621 6 років тому +8

    So brilliant, speaks to every soul if they’re being honest with themselves, thank you for sharing.

    • @SteveV1960
      @SteveV1960 5 років тому

      Nice talk, The best video on UA-cam on this lifestyle is The Man who Quite Money

  • @KM-kj5pk
    @KM-kj5pk 4 роки тому

    Absolutely LOVE this idea. Thank you!

  • @celloafterdark4173
    @celloafterdark4173 4 роки тому +10

    Really enjoying and appreciating this talk! Also want to give the speaker a hair clip... maybe she didn’t want to buy one... 👀

  • @Miss_Annlaug
    @Miss_Annlaug 6 років тому +119

    I love this. No transport eh? Haha! I'm not taking it that far. I'm having a spend free month right now. After Christmas I will do two an build from there. It's very difficult now in the beginning : the craving to spend is strong and programmed into us

    • @publikymage
      @publikymage 6 років тому +20

      If you start saving that extra money it will become almost like a good addiction. You now have this amount of money and start considering possibilities you thought were out of your reach... maybe I could buy my own house? Maybe I could travel to Egypt? Maybe I can start working less hours because I don't have that many expenses.
      It's a great feeling!

    • @Loeviis
      @Loeviis 6 років тому +9

      I started a six month no buy (for myself) and i messed up twice. Thats okay, im aware of it and that helps me be more careful with spending money :-) Good job for you for doing that!

    • @LaurasLastDitch
      @LaurasLastDitch 5 років тому

      Depending where you live, it can be very doable. I have fallen in love (again) with riding my bike everywhere, just like I did when I was a kid.

    • @mezlandia
      @mezlandia 5 років тому

      @@publikymage I dunno where you live, but in Arizona, USA, it is very hard to find a job w/fewer hours that's stable. For example, my sister works part-tine and hours vary. She might be scheduled 4 hours one week, and 34 hours the next. My last job fired me because, ultimately, I needed to work fewer hours (chronic migraines made me ask to leave early every week and going part-time was not on the table). I am still looking for PT work, 2 months later. I'd love to find a city that has more options.

    • @bluef.2473
      @bluef.2473 4 роки тому

      so during no spend month what do you allow yourself to spend? I have intentions to do it this October!

  • @helenaedwards7123
    @helenaedwards7123 4 роки тому

    Thank you, so humble and honest, very inspiring :)

  • @jessicahall3891
    @jessicahall3891 3 роки тому

    I did this about a decade ago, and am revisiting it now. I had started with a year of buying nothing new. When that proved to be too easy, as I had already been a second hand shopper, I decided to do a year of buying nothing. I had set rules that I could buy new if the house or the car needed a new part, but I bought nothing else. Again, it was surprisingly easy. I love seeing this video, so that this idea might get out there more.

  • @johnparadise3134
    @johnparadise3134 6 років тому +112

    Do I need this or do I just want this?

    • @KathyM
      @KathyM 4 роки тому +3

      My mother would always say, “if you can’t wear it or eat it, do you really need it.” So I adopted the 3 day rule of waiting before I purchased things that I thought I needed.

    • @Chariots1981
      @Chariots1981 4 роки тому +1

      This is really the essential question. Most cases it's just want. I want to always keep this in mind.

  • @CerroneSamuel
    @CerroneSamuel 4 роки тому

    I’m feeling inspired by this. Thank you.

  • @waterlilyheart541
    @waterlilyheart541 6 років тому

    This is beautiful, thank you!!

  • @shreyasshreyas1267
    @shreyasshreyas1267 Рік тому

    *🛑Short Term Thrill VS Long Term Goal/Achievements - Remember Every Single Time you're About to Spend and Choose Wisely!*
    That was a Much needed One! Thanks a Ton..!🙏🙏🙏

  • @michellelogreco3351
    @michellelogreco3351 4 роки тому +3

    I love this;
    I am in a mission to clean out my extra stuff!!
    Started this week;
    Minimalist in the making!

  • @patriciakelly69
    @patriciakelly69 5 років тому +2

    I think it was good that you experienced how amazing life could be. Also rainy days can happen and you need to have money to fall back on. I’m going to try some of the things you’ve discussed. The problem is that so many people are stuck in their ways that they overspend buying things they don’t need because quite often they are depressed. They’re in financial difficulties.they use one card to pay off another and they continue the cycle of spending because they don’t know how to get out of the mess they are in. It’s a vicious circle.
    Years ago I remember being on that roundabout. I eventually talked to my bank manager. Cut up my credit cards and the bank gave me a loan with a low interest rate. I cleared my debts and became free. I still spend but only what I can afford. But I’m going to stop wasting money.

  • @stellapatterson9834
    @stellapatterson9834 4 роки тому

    Loved this talk, very inspiring

  • @HelloMsAnny
    @HelloMsAnny 5 років тому +3

    This is such an inspiring speech, I'm really tempted to think more about how I spend my money!

  • @neetabhatnagar9779
    @neetabhatnagar9779 4 роки тому

    Very good speech.Thank you!

  • @MsArri81
    @MsArri81 6 років тому +5

    Very inspiring. I've been trying to spend less as well. It's not easy but I am working on it.

  • @dianechoate2906
    @dianechoate2906 5 років тому +1

    Happiness can not be bought in a shop. Lovely to hear what we all know. Great speech.

  • @suburbanfarms
    @suburbanfarms 4 роки тому +16

    I'm doing a no spend January, I didn't tell the internet. This talk popped up.... creepy

    • @schwpzi8844
      @schwpzi8844 4 роки тому

      Good luck! Cheering for you!

    • @melissan9199
      @melissan9199 4 роки тому

      Danielle Cade me too. Also trying 20 in 2020. Only bringing in 2020 items into my life in 2020!

    • @woodenkat8971
      @woodenkat8971 4 роки тому

      Best time of year for it! Congrats! Hope your January is spend free.

  • @ts9119
    @ts9119 6 років тому

    Thank you, very inspiring

  • @samrose3205
    @samrose3205 4 роки тому

    This is exactly what I needed. Great talk

  • @adeeraborge
    @adeeraborge 4 роки тому

    HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend reading her book - It is AMAZING!!

  • @chlofene
    @chlofene 6 років тому +3

    I totally agree with what you said. Even in retirement, I am putting it into practice. Less is best.

  • @alwaysyouramanda
    @alwaysyouramanda 6 років тому +10

    I love this! As a kid we were very poor, so I try to live as I did then. "without" but not nearly as extreme- running for my life from impending debt 😂😭😨
    someone save us all!

  • @eileengrier377
    @eileengrier377 5 років тому

    Thank you for this, great food for thought and lesson

  • @mrs.kilmersclassroom3768
    @mrs.kilmersclassroom3768 4 роки тому +1

    Good talk and lots of great comments. Some folks, though, fixate on "What are you saving for?" It's understandable that many folks need that kind of motivation to not spend, but better if we could all realize that materialism and overconsumption are destroying the planet. Simply consuming less for environmental reasons and the commonweal can also be a worthwhile goal - with personal savings and the new lifestyle and independence that comes from that as a bonus.

  • @kathrynsheridan3605
    @kathrynsheridan3605 3 роки тому +1

    Love the idea of making the most of all the free things that are on offer