Though we may be tired of talking about the pandemic, there are still lessons we can learn about ourselves, our spending, and our possessions, particularly as we prepare to greet a new year.
Five months into a new rhythm of pandemic life, my favorite retailer, Loft, sent me a birthday coupon: $10 off any purchase. Typically, I would be delighted by this gift. Instead, I felt a sense of vague interest mixed with indifference. I starred the email and made a note on my calendar of the coupon’s expiration date.
When the date neared, I casually navigated to the clearance section of Loft’s website and scrolled through dozens of tops. I picked out four items and added them to my cart. After a few moments, I removed two of the pieces, keeping only the ones I liked best, and stared at the total. The indifference mounted. I closed the page and in the weeks since, have never once regretted the missed opportunity to buy a few clothes as a birthday gift at a steep discount.
