Sustainability means choosing to invest in yourself

Amidst our list of daily purchases, many are made out of convenience. What decision requires the least amount of time, money, and energy to get the job done. While this habit occurs naturally, it often leaves us settling as consumers for the bare minimum.

Think about it. How many times do you try a different product or brand when visiting the grocery store? We know what works. We like the quality. We consistently make that decision without exploring other, better, more sustainable alternatives. Why? Because it’s convenient.

Similarly, when it comes to retail shopping, consumers typically stick to brands they know and they’re normally big brands that are ‘reliable’ for trendy pieces. However, retail is slightly harder to isolate because that puffer jacket at Fast Fashion Company 101 isn’t just stylish and reputable, but of course it’s also just so darn convenient. Everyone has heard of this brand. It’s relatively affordable. I love the way it looks.

In 6 months to a year, that Fast Fashion Company 101 puffer jacket may still be in tact, but the quality is going to deteriorate in some way or another. Maybe the paint comes off buttons. Or it doesn’t keep you as warm after a few washes. It could shrink! And now you’re in need of another puffer jacket because you love the style but cannot continue to trust this old one anymore.

Let me paint a different picture. Beyond a fast fashion brand that doesn’t have ethical working conditions, uses synthetic materials that are derived from crude oil, and requires excess water to uphold the illusion of high quality.

What if you delved a little deeper into this investment of a puffer jacket? At this point, you’ve decided to find something that won’t be thrown away in under a year but you’re searching for a staple piece that will earn plenty of compliments over the years it endures.

You find local brands in a cold climate and are able to see the entire process that goes into making their puffer jackets. They don’t produce many so you would have to probably buy it quickly. You adore the style and silhouette. The materials used are clearly listed- no signs of polyester or micro-plastics. It instantly feels more unique. Plus, the lower water usage and ethical treatment of employees makes you feel reassured.

The reviews rave about the quality and how Jen from Alaska has kept her piece for the past twenty years. You can feel yourself being convinced and excited about this decision. The last piece of the puzzle arrives: the price. It’s significantly steeper than the alternatives. You’re taken aback for a moment. You start rationalizing the pros and cons of the purchase. How often will I wear it? Do I really need it? I really like it but how can I even begin to justify such a high price tag? At this point, you may even be tempted to run back to the familiarity of that fast fashion brand, pay the cheaper price, and go through the cycle of wear and throw for another 6 months to a year.

But you’re forgetting to invest in yourself. Sustainability and this mindset go hand in hand because you deserve the highest quality of goods that will last a lifetime. It does require a little more courage, a heftier investment up front, and trust in the longevity. Price tags shouldn’t deter you either. It’s a long term decision and you can be assured that the piece you’re investing in deserves your trust and investment. If you’re able to afford this product and you know you’ll wear it often, this is a sound decision. It may feel risky at first, but trust your judgement and the company you’ve decided to invest in.

Of course this “invest in yourself” idea can be a slippery slope for shopaholics, in that case thrifting might be a better option to start with. Check out more local locations rather than thrifting franchises for higher quality of product too. Especially if you’re looking to find vintage pieces that were made with very robust standards and high quality materials (e.g. vintage Levi’s). However, it’s important not to be caught up in the price tag yet again. Buy only what you know you’ll wear!

Many people have heard this discourse before and continue to stick to the wear and throw mentality as aforementioned. It’s convenient! However, once you start thinking a little more about investing in yourself the world is your oyster. Focus on how you deserve the best quality and have the ability to help the environment with your decisions.

Related posts:

To get ahead in the job-search game, you’ve got to nail the basics. Honed your CV? Check. Registered with recruitment agencies? Check. Signed up to all the job-alert emails under the sun? Check…

Sometimes I look at my kids resting in their dad’s arms and they remind me of children sitting underneath a shady tree. The branches of his arms shield them from life’s harsh elements while his solid…

MIXI NETWORK. A next generation blockchain designed for Games Payment Network. Solving the Games Payment Digital Trust problems. Fast and Transparent..