Why Am I Writing This Blog?

I’ve always been a conscientious consumer of sorts. I’m the type of person who spends 10 minutes reading the backs of shampoo bottles before choosing just the right formula. Whether I need a new car, DVD player or hair dryer, I’ll spend hours or even days reading reviews.

Lately, I’ve had to take a closer look at my purchases for two reasons: 1) I’ve started my own small business and don’t have the purchasing power that I did before and 2) I’m running out of space in my small, urban apartment. Before I buy anything, I have to ask myself: 1) Do I really need this? 2) Do I love it? 3) Can I afford it? 4) Do I have a place to put it? 5) Was it made locally or at least in the United States? and 6) Is it relatively healthy for me and for the environment?

Sometimes the answer’s a no-brainer: Yes, I do need to buy these disposable razors that were made in Greece because I don’t see any alternatives and I really don’t want hairy legs. But other times I’m not so sure, and I’ll end up talking myself out of something that I love but can’t afford or that I want but don’t need or have space to store. (It’s too bad I didn’t ask myself these six questions when I registered at Bed, Bath and Beyond before my wedding. No, I did not need an avocado slicer or an apple corer, and these silly gadgets are taking up prime space in my kitchen.)

I’m writing this blog to work out some of my purchasing decisions in my own head and to solicit advice from other conscientious consumers. Have a comment or topic suggestion? E-mail me. Thanks for reading!