Becoming a Responsible Consumer

By Emily Zhao

“I’ll buy it if you buy it!” This is a common idea shared among friends whenever one or the other is tempted to make a purchase. Although it may be desirable to buy whatever is in sight at the moment, is it really worth it in the long run? 

Starting from the 19th century, overconsumption has become an increasingly pressing problem as mass production and excessive marketing of goods have captured the attention of people in our country. New technologies have enabled the rapid development of products, and advertisements have sparked interest in goods that are often beyond what one needs. Similarly, today, social media has played a huge role in promoting products and influencing fans to buy various merchandise. At the cost of countless goods, unfortunately, their quality has also decreased, affecting items ranging from clothing and electronics to food. To avoid purchasing cheap and useless goods, consumer skills are essential in our day-to-day lives. These skills help a customer to make informed decisions when buying goods to avoid purchasing expensive and mediocre products; these include comparing prices, looking at labels, and looking at materials and ingredients, and managing personal finances. 

For example, compare the quality and prices of two clothing brands: Edikted and Brandy Melville. Although both stores contain clothes that appeal to young audiences, it is important to note the differences in the brands. Edikted, on one hand, has clothes made mostly of polyester, a cheaper material. Not only does the material provide discomfort, but it is also marked at high prices with occasional “discounts.” To the contrary, Brandy Melville is a clothing store that uses natural materials like cotton in its clothes at a similar price range. Additionally, natural materials of cotton are more beneficial for the environment compared to the harmful effects of polyester, as it is not sustainable. With the help of a consumer's skill of checking the prices and materials, this can help you decide whether or not to really purchase what is in front of you. Make sure to check the labels! 

The next step to being a responsible consumer is managing personal finances. To avoid impulsive spending on unnecessary items, consider setting a budget for yourself. Additionally, take the time to think: how often would you really use all the goods you buy? Is spending the majority of your money worth ending up in debt? You can save yourself with the 50/30/20 rule in budgeting, allowing for flexibility in the way you spend your money. With the 50% portion, focus on spending 50% of your money on essential needs regarding your daily habits or routine. The 30% should go to your wants. This can apply to whatever item you have been saving up for or have been desperately wanting. Lastly, the 20% should go to savings. This 20% applies to saving for college or emergency funds. Starting now in your teenage years, saving helps build your financial habits while also preparing yourself for future financial situations. So, the next time you feel tempted to impulsively buy something, think about being a responsible consumer and apply these skills to your life! 

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Works Cited

Lamberson, Brianna. “Fabrics You Should Avoid Buying and Wearing - Brianna Lamberson Personal Stylist Knoxville, Tennessee.” Briannalamberson.com, 6 May 2018, briannalamberson.com/fabrics-avoid-buying-wearing/.

Rodriguez, Sienna. “Overconsumption: A Negative Feedback Loop between Consumer and Producer – the Phillipian.” The Phillipian, 26 Oct. 2024, phillipian.net/2024/10/25/overconsumption-a-negative-feedback-loop-between-consumer-and-producer/.

‌United Nations Federal Credit Union. “Budgeting Basics: The 50-30-20 Rule.” Www.unfcu.org, 2024, www.unfcu.org/financial-wellness/50-30-20-rule/.