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StitcherWe frugal people are built different. Not in a weird way, but in a smart, practical one. If this episode resonated with you the first time, you’re going to love revisiting it. We’re diving back into the underconsumption core trend on TikTok—a trend we’d love to see more of, but probably won’t, because it’s not rage-bait, and it doesn’t make platforms much money.
Frugality is not being cheap, it’s simply using what we have, being good stewards of our money and our resources
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- brainwashing. We’ve all been brainwashed to undervalue the products we use everyday. Whether that’s shampoo, toothpaste, hand soap, makeup, whatever. We have lost the plot. You wanna know where the plot is? Here. Frugal Friends. If you agree, head over and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Defining Underconsumption Core
This article by Angela Law explores the emerging trend on TikTok of consuming less with greater intention, as she examines TikTok’s latest trend: underconsumption core.
Jen explains that underconsumption core refers to buying only what you strictly need and then using it until it is worn out or requires mending or replacement. Which, for Jill, is a great way to open up the conversation about choosing to consume less with intention and a greater purpose behind adopting such a lifestyle.
The Two Side of the Core
Jen discusses how some perceive living with “underconsumption” as a privilege. Many people prefer to buy expensive items thoughtfully and use them for a long time. However, at its core, underconsumption doesn’t necessarily mean giving up quality or being extremely frugal—it simply means using the things you’ve purchased until they are fully utilized.
Jill believes that the true essence of underconsumption core isn’t about the concepts of “cosplay of poverty” or “high peasant,” but rather about normalizing what true authenticity looks like.
Ways to Partake in Underconsumption Core
Jen and Jill share various ways to embrace underconsumption. These include participating in minimalist wardrobe challenges, DIY upcycling projects, and thrift hauls. They suggest styling the same outfit in different ways and breathing new life into old belongings. Other ideas include sharing their mindful fashion journeys.
What’s your favorite personal mindful consumption hack?
Jen likes to reuse and maintain home items and buys whatever she can secondhand on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Poshmark. She has also deleted apps that tempt her to buy things. Jill’s favorite hack is keeping a list to stay mindful and planned about her spending.
Bill of The Week
Thank you Kelly for sharing your bill about finding full-time work and the security it’s providing!
Thanks so Much for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews and we especially loved this one from:
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The only money-related podcast I enjoy
As a trying-to-be responsible grownup person, I try to keep on top of financial advice, but it always felt like a chore. Jen and Jill give me all the info I need, but I actually look forward to listening to and learning from them. Thanks for making a serious topic so much fun
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