Mindful Shopping: Why I Don’t Feel Good About Overconsumption

Intentional or mindful shopping is more satisfying long term and generates less waste.

Let’s be real—shopping is fun. There’s something satisfying about clicking “Buy Now” and having a package magically appear at your door. But as much as I love a great kitchen gadget, I don’t love overconsumption.

I run Merch with Merit to help people find products that actually work, not just ones that will end up in the back of a drawer for years or, worse, in a landfill. My goal isn’t to sell you more stuff—it’s to help you shop smarter so you don’t waste money on things that don’t last or don’t serve a real purpose.

The Problem with Overconsumption

We live in an age of endless choices and instant gratification, but that comes at a cost. Buying trendy or low-quality products often leads to:

• Clutter – Do you really need that 12-in-1 avocado slicer? (Spoiler: A knife works just fine.)

• Buyer’s remorse – That exciting gadget loses its luster when it’s used a handful of times and then just takes up space.

• Wastefulness – Unused items and poorly made products simply end up wasting your money, time and create more trash to end up in landfills.

As someone who has worked in the housewares industry, I’ve seen firsthand how some products are built to last. That’s why I choose to only recommend products that I believe in—ones I’ve used, tested, and trust. You will see them on my website with a banner “Own & Love”.

Yes, I Make Money from This—But That’s Why I’m Selective

I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I may earn a commission when you buy through my links. But here’s the thing: I don’t believe in pushing useless, trendy, or low-quality products just to make a quick buck.

I make a conscious effort to feature items that offer: ✔ Functionality – They should do the job well and make life easier. ✔ Durability – Products that last longer mean less waste. ✔ Good design – Because practical can also be beautiful.

If I wouldn’t spend my own money on it, I won’t ask you to.

Final Thoughts: More Isn’t Always Better

I love kitchen and home products—but I believe in buying them wisely. Mindful shopping isn’t about never buying anything; it’s about choosing wisely so you truly enjoy and use what you buy.

So yes, I promote products. But I do it with intention—to help you spend wisely, love what you own, and reduce waste. Let’s shop smarter, not just more.