I recently turned 70, and this has given me the clarity to recognize what truly enriches my life and what simply adds clutter. Over the years, I’ve realized that certain “modern” luxuries, while convenient or trendy, weren’t contributing to my happiness.
Instead, they often created more stress, cost, or unnecessary complexity.
Here are 10 so-called luxuries I’ve happily left behind, and how life has improved as a result.
Streaming Subscriptions
At one point, I had just about every streaming service under the sun, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, you name it. I thought having endless options would be great, but instead, I’d spend more time scrolling than actually watching anything. It started to feel like a chore. Now, I’ve cut the cord completely and stick to free over-the-air channels or movies from the library.
Smartphones with Endless Apps
For years, my smartphone felt like an extension of myself, loaded with apps for everything from fitness tracking to social media. But eventually, I realized that the constant notifications and endless updates were consuming more time and attention than they were worth. Switching to a basic phone has been liberating. Now, I only use it for calls and texts, freeing up my mind for more meaningful activities.
Fancy Coffee Machines
For years, I thought I needed the latest and greatest coffee maker with all the bells and whistles, frothers, timers, and so many buttons I couldn’t keep track. But cleaning and maintaining those machines was a hassle.
Now, I’ve gone back to basics with a simple French press. It makes great coffee, takes up hardly any space, and is easy to clean. Honestly, my morning routine has never been simpler.
Designer Clothes
When I was young, I thought designer labels were a marker of success, and I often spent more than I should on high-end pieces. But now, comfort and practicality mean much more to me than brand names. My wardrobe is made up of timeless, well-made basics that work for any occasion, and I feel no pressure to keep up with fleeting trends.
Fitness Trackers
When fitness trackers became popular, I jumped on the bandwagon, thinking they’d keep me motivated and on track. But instead, they made me obsess over numbers and feel guilty on less active days. Eventually, I realized that walking in nature and listening to my body were far more rewarding than staring at a screen.
Now, I enjoy my daily walks without worrying about step counts or heart rates, and it’s brought back the simple joy of being active.
Meal Delivery Services
You’ll probably know about meal delivery services, and maybe you think they’re a good idea. I did, too.
But the cost, all the wasteful packaging, and overly complicated recipes made me rethink things pretty quickly. Now, I try to shop at my local farmers’ market and cook with simple, fresh ingredients. Not only does this feel more satisfying, but I’m also supporting local farmers and wasting a lot less.
Social Media
Simply put, I was spending too much time on social media, so I decided to delete my accounts and focus on connecting in person or through phone calls. This decision has brought more depth to my relationships and allowed me to spend more time doing things I truly enjoy.
Deleting my accounts was the best decision I’ve made in years.
New Cars
At one point, I thought upgrading my car every few years was a necessity. You know, keep it shiny, keep it trendy. But let me tell you, there’s nothing wrong with an old, dependable clunker. My current car may not have heated seats or a touchscreen dashboard, but it starts every morning (well, most mornings), and the best part? It’s paid off. No monthly payments, no stress.
Plus, I don’t have to panic every time a shopping cart wobbles a little too close in the parking lot. Honestly, it’s freeing to drive something so old it’s practically invisible to car thieves.
Cable TV
Cable TV was like that one friend who keeps showing up uninvited and eating all your snacks. Hundreds of channels and nothing good to watch! So I gave it the boot. Now, I stick to free local channels and borrow movies from the library. Sure, I’ve traded endless reality shows for re-runs of Columbo, but you know what? Life’s quieter, simpler, and I’ve never been happier.
Overpriced Beauty Products
There was a time when I spent a small fortune on beauty creams that promised eternal youth. Spoiler alert: none of them worked! Now, I stick to the basics: moisturizer, sunscreen, and a smile. My bathroom counter is no longer full of jars of overpriced magic potions, and my wallet is so much happier.
Besides, at 70, I’ve earned every wrinkle, and I’m not about to bankrupt myself trying to erase them.