If I don't have a reusable bag on me, I will try to only use paper bags, and if there isn't paper, I sometimes look to see if I can purchase a reusable bag. I sometimes will use the plastic bags they offer if I can desperate because I reuse them as trash bags for the bathroom garbage. I put many reusable bags in my car so I see them when I go shopping and don't forget them.

I can be conscious of the things that I buy. I think it is important to know the difference between needs and wants. When I go to the store, I should make a list of the things that I need and only buy the things on the list, so I don't buy things out of compulsion.

When I tried to implement change via removing screen time, my already set habits would creep up on me, which was the hardest part about diverting my attention towards other hobbies that I believed were less deserving at the moment. I think this challenge is a lot more meaningful to understand about myself than when I indulge in lack lustered goals people push onto me. Setting a boundary on myself is hard because I crush it almost immediately when I set it, so for the time I spent not being on my phone or computer I was partaking in hobbies I normally never had the time to. It felt different, but I welcomed the change.

If we are not creatively finding ways to practice simplicity, it can often lead to boredom and a dull life. Finding ways that can be expressed by yourself through your own ways can help make the practice all more meaningful.

I love using a reusable water bottle, I find that it is so much more convenient to bring it with me and also be provided with cold water wherever I go.

I have been trying to buy less food that I know I might end up wasting, and this reduces my carbon footprint by reducing my food waste. This also lowers the energy used to process my food waste. I also have been making sure I turn off all my lights when I'm not using them, saving energy.

I am grateful for the ocean and for the gorgeous beaches. I always feel so centered and grounded when I'm near the ocean.

I regularly use straws, and before the challenge, I'd used compostable straws with the occasional plastic straw. Since the challenge, I've brought my metal and reusable plastic straws to more places. I think this is a simple substitute, just keeping up this habit is the main struggle.