Think Enriched

Consumerism: We didn't invent it.


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Have you ever walked into a store to buy one thing, like a towel, and left with entirely new bathroom decor?  There's a name for it.  

It's called the Diderot Effect.  

In this episode we talk about:

  • Our last episode, my husband joined us. We discussed our family's financial situation, progress, the highs & lows.  
  • Here are the numbers:  January 2013, we had $57,000 of debt.  We have paid off $41,000 total.  We paid off $25,000 in 2014 and $16,000 in 2015.  We have just the final $16,000 left on my student loans.
  • The Think Enriched Review: Share the one thing you have learned about money this year!  Send me an email to: [email protected] to share your Enriched Review!
  • The Diderot Effect: consumerism wasn't invited this year.  We can get caught up with one new thing which triggers us to buy another new thing and another.
  • Diderot's Essay, written in 1769, "Regrets for my Old Dressing Gown, or A warning to those who have more taste than fortune."
  • "Poverty has its freedoms; opulence has its obstacles."
  • Have you ever found yourself suffering from the Diderot Effect?  Like:
    • You identify with stuff, as in, "That is so you."
    • Brands are becoming part of your lifestyle and image.
    • You buy things in sets for the look, rather than the actual need.
    • Remember, it's just stuff.  It's not part of your identity.  It's just stuff!
    • Look at how the stores are set up.  They are created to help us buy much, much more than we need.
    • Set your limits for you:  make your budget, stay within your limits, and enjoy your purchases.
    • You can support the show!  Drop a Five Spot in our Think Enriched Virtual Tip Jar.
    • Support the show this week.
    • Resources mentioned in this episode:

      • "The Diderot Effect: Why We Want Thing We Don't Need- And What to Do About It" by James Clear
      • "Regrets for my old Dressing Gown, or A warning to those who hae more taste than fortune," by Denis Diderot, 1769
      • Think Enriched Virtual Tip Jar
      • You've heard of the Think Enriched Crew, but are you in yet?

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        1. Give the show a RATING & REVIEW.
        2. That's it!  You are now entered to win 1 of 3 copies being given away (just in time for the holidays.)
        3. Don't forget to join me & Steve Stewart on BLAB next week:

          BLAB Session: November 18, 7pm, Pacific

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          Have a question?  Send me an email:  [email protected] 

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          Think EnrichedBy Amy Robles