I’m trying to not be so lazy. It’s hard, though.
I’m not a shopper. I don’t like to browse. Window shopping isn’t my thing.
I shop with a purpose. I usually know what I want, go to the store, buy it, done.
By go to the store I mean I shop online.
I know, I know, I know—so bad, for so many reasons.
Shopping local is better for every town’s economy. More sales tax for the area, more jobs, more money circulating through town. Those dollars stay local. Even shopping at a big box store in person is better than shopping online.
I’m definitely part of the problem. I’m not shopping locally. I’m making a vow to do more in person shopping beyond groceries—which I always do in person.
When people shop online, their city doesn’t benefit—unless they shop online at a local business. But, really, that isn’t happening very often.
Yes, it’s more convenient to have things arrive at my door. Yes, it’s faster to shop online—except when I go down rabbit holes. Yes, it can even be cheaper.
It still doesn’t make it the best answer if I want all small towns and cities to thrive. I don’t want storefronts to sit vacant seemingly forever. I don’t want any city to have boarded up empty shops, which make it look rundown and less than thriving. Shopping in person, even if it means having to drive a bit, is better than shopping online.
I started with a small purchase. I needed a new memory card for my camera; yes, I still use a camera on occasion. I did the research online for what I wanted, which saved me driving around town wasting gas and time. Best Buy had it in stock. Done.
Sure, I could have ordered it to be delivered, but I didn’t. I actually felt good about the whole experience.
Next purchase was walking shoes. I went to the local Fleet Feet store. Another good experience.
I know I probably won’t be able to find everything in person. I know I will choose convenience (aka online) over shopping in person at times.
Awareness is at least a good first start. Action is the key. Shopping local is good for the economy and good for the environment. We all need to do our part. Every small step can add up to something powerful and impactful.
I am trying to do the same as well! So many good reasons to shop local. Thanks for sharing your reasons.
I’m trying too! Weaning myself away from Amazon, although so many things I can only purchase online : Mudwtr, wholier vitamins, cat litter specific to my litter robot.. all
of those are on subscriptions, at least not through Amazon.
I agree 100%. It’s a dilemma as many things don’t seem to be available locally or are more expensive. We’ve had so few options in Tahoe, it was practically a national holiday when Ross opened. Not liking crowds or standing in line makes Amazon that much more attractive, besides the home delivery. I do plan to go to a couple of local stores soon for some small gifts.
Agree with everything you said !
I shop with a purpose. I usually know what I want, go to the store, buy it, done.
Just bought myself a new pair of boots at Boot Barn. Gotta try em’ on!
I bake a lot during the holiday ( cannot stand the crowds ), wish you lived closer!