If the 21st century has taught us anything, it's that there is such a thing as "too much." Overabundance has freed up the average American to look beyond their basic needs to luxury items, which are constantly being shown to us through ads and Social Media. From vacations to cosmetics to clothing - sometimes it can feel like we are constantly inundated with pressure to consume.
While it's certainly a good thing that it's become easier for people to provide for their basic needs, cultural pressure has created out-of-control overspending for many families. One study found that 83% of Americans report overspending, and 84% report struggling with a monthly budget. The costs of "standard experiences" like birthday parties and Valentine's Day keep increasing as parents are expected to do more and more to keep their children aligned with their peers.
But overconsumption can wreak havoc on more than just your wallet. Studies have shown that overconsumption is linked to greater rates of unhappiness and mental health issues. Many report feeling like the goalpost is always moving, and the temporary satisfaction they receive from consuming is quickly overshadowed by feelings of guilt, shame, or emptiness.
"Underconsumption core" poses as a solution to the endless societal pressure to buy, buy, buy - and to look at spending through a more discerning lens.
"Underconsumption Core" is an aesthetic that has become an internet trend. It focuses on glorifying "underconsumption" and resource conservation. In many ways, it directly reacts to the "restock" and "haul" videos circulating Social Media that involve buying large quantities of unnecessary goods.
Underconsumption core videos often show families reusing damaged or old items like electronics, water bottles, furniture, and clothes. "Anti-haul" videos have also become popular, where people show all the items they're not buying, often coupled with what they plan to use instead. From showing themselves using the last drop of products to displaying their mismatched silverware collections, the advocates for the underconsumption lifestyle are loud and proud about their desire to keep life simple and affordable.
Those participating in the underconsumption movement report having a variety of motives. Some are concerned about sustainability and ecological responsibility, while others are trying to reduce clutter and increase their family's savings. Others still are trying to normalize a culture where standard experiences don't have to be extravagant to be meaningful. This frees up a lot of individuals and families to focus on hobbies, lived experiences, and quality time to enrich their lives rather than consumption.
This trend does have its fair share of detractors as well. Some believe the trend glorifies poverty while others are worried it may influence people to engage in unhygienic practices. Others still make note that many of the influencers currently pushing underconsumption may be acting hypocritically, taking advantage of the trend while not actually reducing their wasteful spending.
While many of these criticisms certainly have their merits, even most critics will agree that over-consumption is a huge problem. They are simply expressing concerns about the implications of the trend and the influences it may have on broader society if the aforementioned issues are not taken into consideration.
Overall, I think this trend does a lot more good than harm. I think it's important for normal, everyday people to have their lifestyles celebrated. I can only imagine it's a great relief to a lot of people who have felt the intense pressure to constantly keep up with what's considered trendy - endlessly having to buy the next new thing whether they need it or not. I can only hope this trend will be more than a flash in the pan and instead will become part of the greater minimalist movement, encouraging everyone to think more carefully about their spending and possessions.