When I was drowning in debt, I felt like I was living in a constant cycle of stress. Every month, I’d watch my paycheck vanish into bills and minimum payments, wondering if I’d ever break free. The turning point came when I realized that paying off debt isn’t just about earning more—it’s about spending less, but in a way that doesn’t make you feel deprived.
So, I made a radical but surprisingly simple shift: I started cutting out things I didn’t actually need. And let me tell you, it worked faster than I imagined. I didn’t just save money—I gained control over my life.
If you’re ready to accelerate your debt payoff journey without feeling like you’re sacrificing all joy, here’s a list of things I stopped buying (and what I did instead).
The $5 latte habit? Gone. It’s not that I didn’t love coffee—I just realized how much I was spending every month. Instead, I learned to make my own fancy coffee at home. With a little practice and some cinnamon or vanilla, my homemade lattes tasted just as good. Bonus: I saved over $100 a month!
I used to scroll through Instagram and feel tempted to buy every new “must-have” outfit. But the truth is, trends fade, and so does that excitement. I switched to re-styling clothes I already owned, mixing and matching outfits, and even doing fun closet challenges. Not only did I save hundreds, but I also discovered a personal style that feels 100% me.
Netflix, Spotify, beauty boxes… the list went on. I canceled every subscription I wasn’t fully using. Instead of multiple streaming services, I stuck with one free platform at a time. And you know what? I didn’t miss them as much as I thought I would. Every cancellation added up to more money toward my debt.
Those late-night “Add to Cart” moments were my weakness. I started a 48-hour rule: if I wanted to buy something, I had to wait two days. Most of the time, the urge to buy disappeared. That one habit alone saved me from spending on dozens of unnecessary things.
I love good food, but eating out all the time was draining my bank account. I started meal-prepping fun, delicious recipes and recreating restaurant-style dishes at home. Think homemade pasta nights or taco Tuesdays—it became a game for me. Not only did I save money, but I also ate healthier.
I realized I was spending too much on expensive beauty and skincare items just because they looked luxurious. I swapped them for drugstore dupes and DIY masks (like honey + oatmeal for glowing skin). My skin didn’t notice the difference, but my wallet sure did!
Pinterest made me want to decorate my home every other week. But I learned to love what I already had. I rearranged furniture, DIY-ed décor pieces from things lying around, and even gave old items a fresh coat of paint. It felt just as exciting, but cost me zero dollars.
This one was easy. I started carrying a reusable water bottle everywhere and skipped the overpriced drinks. It was healthier and saved a surprising amount of cash over time.
I stopped feeling like I had to spend big money to show love. Handmade gifts, heartfelt letters, or planning a special day together became my go-to. Honestly? People appreciated these thoughtful gestures even more.
I realized I was spending way too much on specialized cleaning sprays for every corner of my house. Instead, I switched to simple, multi-purpose DIY cleaners using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Not only was it cheaper, but my home stayed just as fresh and spotless.
Did I really need to buy new Christmas or fall décor every year? Nope. I learned to reuse what I had and even DIY new pieces from recycled items or nature-inspired elements. It became fun and creative, and I saved big during every holiday season.
Buying lunch every day at work or while running errands used to cost me $8–$12 per meal. Once I switched to prepping simple, delicious lunches at home, I saved $200+ every month. Plus, I felt healthier and more in control of what I ate.
Whenever a new phone or gadget launched, I felt tempted. But I asked myself: Do I really need it, or do I just want it? I started keeping my electronics until they were truly worn out instead of upgrading for no reason. This one change saved me hundreds of dollars.
I used to pay for a fancy gym I barely used. Then I discovered free YouTube workouts, outdoor runs, and at-home fitness routines. Guess what? I got the same results without spending a dime.
As much as I loved the pampering, I realized I could do basic self-care at home. DIY manicures, at-home spa nights, and learning a few hairstyling tricks saved me a fortune. And honestly, it felt empowering to know I could do it myself.
Supermarkets know how to tempt you with fancy snacks and ready-made treats. I cut back on impulse snack buys and stuck to a simple grocery list. When I wanted something fun, I made it at home—it tasted better and cost way less.
I was guilty of buying random “life hack” gadgets that ended up collecting dust. Now, I ask myself: Will I still use this three months from now? If the answer is no, I don’t buy it. This shift saved me from wasting money on pointless things.
I used to buy every app or online course that sounded useful—but barely used them. Now, I stick to free resources and commit to finishing what I already have. Free YouTube tutorials and blogs can teach you almost anything these days!
Those pre-cut fruits and ready-to-eat meals were costing me double the price of making them myself. By spending a few minutes chopping veggies or prepping meals, I saved a ton each week—and honestly, the fresh taste was worth the effort.
This one hurt to admit. I’d grab a “little something” every time I felt stressed—whether it was a $10 candle, a $7 face mask, or a quick fast-food snack. Individually, they felt small, but they were stealing hundreds every month. Now I celebrate small wins with free joys—like a long bubble bath or a sunset walk.
I used to throw away so much food because I overbought. Now, I shop smarter—buying only what I know I’ll eat, planning meals ahead, and loving my leftovers. The savings surprised me more than anything else!
Instead of buying expensive drinks, I started making infused water, smoothies, and tea at home. It’s healthier, refreshing, and costs next to nothing.
As much as I love reading, I stopped buying every new book I wanted. Instead, I swapped with friends, used my local library, or downloaded free e-books. I still got to read all my favorites—without the $15-$20 price tags.
Every birthday or event used to mean spending on balloons, banners, and fancy décor. Now, I keep it simple and heartfelt—homemade decorations, a playlist of happy memories, and good food we already have. Honestly, the vibe feels more personal this way.
I used to splurge on candles that cost $20 or more. Now I either DIY my own scented candles using leftover wax and essential oils or simply simmer orange peels and cinnamon sticks on the stove. The house smells amazing—and I save so much.
This was a sneaky budget killer. I’d scroll for fun and end up buying things I didn’t even plan for. I broke this habit by deleting shopping apps from my phone. If I really need something, I buy it intentionally—not emotionally.
The surprising thing? I didn’t miss most of these things. In fact, I felt more content. Paying off debt faster gave me a sense of freedom that no impulse buy ever could. Cutting out these unnecessary expenses wasn’t about deprivation—it was about choosing my future self over temporary wants.