Cyber Monday is a sunrise away, with the holidays just around the corner. And if you’re like most people I know, you might be some combination of tired, stressed, or strapped for cash. In the short term, online shopping alleviates these understandable concerns. It’s so convenient. We can do it from bed wearing pajamas or on the couch with a glass of wine. The options are damn-near infinite. And let’s be honest — it’s often significantly cheaper.

Some might say it’s a “necessary evil.” But a moralistic lens pushes many of us away from the conversation. Instead, I’d make the argument that a mindful approach to our choices as consumers isn’t just right for the planet. It’s an important key to our individual wellbeing, too.

According to CALPIRG, Americans dispose of 25-43% more trash during the holiday season, amounting to around 25 million tons. Hitting “Buy Now” sends the product speeding our way. But the journey began long before, starting with the extraction of natural resources and manufacturing pollution. Then there’s the packaging that might include Styrofoam or bubble wrap, and the gas-fueled plane and truck rides.

I don’t say this to inspire guilt. On the contrary, society is largely responsible for our individual lenses, which is why it’s crucial to challenge these perspectives. One camp of American society insists climate change is a hoax. Another has presented such a dire and bleak perspective that many progressives I know can’t bear to look at the situation, leading to complete hopelessness. While I agree the climate situation is grave, I don’t believe in subscribing to “all or nothing” thinking. I do believe in “harm reduction,” though. We’re all going to keep consuming, so let’s find ways to be more mindful about it. In honor of Cyber Monday, let’s start by looking at online shopping.

I’ve been nowhere close to saintly in this department myself, particularly during the days of the pandemic. I’m familiar with the enticing allure of an expertly curated advertisement that employs an algorithm that’s downright creepy in its understanding of me. The dopamine hit. The anticipation. The package finally dropping at the front door.

And while it’s tempting to an addictive degree, the incredible convenience and low costs do come at a price. For the planet. And for the overseas workers who make pennies for wages in dangerous conditions.

So, what can we do reduce the negative impact of our consumerism?

1) Bring mindfulness to the advertising algorithm: Consumerism only exists because of a perceived want or need. But let’s face it, there are few products that we truly need. The wants are manufactured by companies, driving narratives that we either don’t have enough, or that we, inherently, aren’t enough. Think of all the advertisements playing into our insecurities — the skincare product that will change your life, the protein powder that will finally transform your body. They promise quick fixes, and rarely deliver our expectations. This is a radical call to pause before purchasing, and consider whether there’s a better way to care for ourselves than that product. And to challenge the societal standards that create the pressure to look or be a certain way in the first place.

2) Shop local instead of online: If we can shift away from quantity and convenience, we can lean in the direction of quality and discernment. Lucky for us, Humboldt County has a plethora of artisanal, antique, and second-hand shops for our perusal. And in the meantime, connecting with community and supporting artists is good for the soul. One of my favorite shops is the 4th Street Mercantile in Eureka, which sells the crafts and wares of over 30 different collectors and makers. We’re swimming in a sea of quality thrift stores around here, people! And the fairs! The Humboldt Artisans Crafts & Music Festival at Redwood Acres is December 6-8. Keep a lookout on the LOWDOWN as the month progresses for other events to keep shopping local.

3) Reduce the harm of online shopping: Privilege is an important part of the equation here. Some of us are more able-bodied or financially well-off than others. Financial and physical limitations are a valid reason to rely on online shopping. Apart from that, if you continue to lean in that direction, I get it. Me too. But this doesn’t have to be black and white. When we do shop online, there are ways to reduce the negative impact. Does the company you want to buy from seem sustainable? Do a little digging to ensure they aren’t just “greenwashing” their brand. Consider the materials they use and their environmental impact. What are some values that are important to you? Cruelty-free products? Fair trade? Figure out what matters and steer your shopping in that direction. Avoid “fast fashion,” which relies on sweatshops, and produces garments that fall apart quickly. And if you shop for multiple items Amazon at once, delay your gratification with the “fewer trips” and “fewer boxes” option.

4) Maybe, sometimes, don’t shop at all: Consider whether an item you want to replace could actually be repaired. That shabby dresser might just need a funky new coat of paint to brighten up the room. Or the pants that don’t quite fit could be brought to the tailor. For those with kids who grow into a new size of clothes every few months, donate or hand these down to other families. Before you know it, you might be part of a hand-me-down train. Sick of your wardrobe? Coordinate a clothing swap, where no one has to spend a dime, and nothing needs to get thrown away.

If all of this seems overwhelming, I feel you. After all, our society has been equating consumerism with happiness and success since before I was born. But the more we claw for material goods, the further we seem to get from a sense of contentment. This problem didn’t get out of control in a day, and it won’t be reversed quickly, either. But the ripple of one small shift at a time can create waves of change across the years. The holiday season is a fantastic time to remember that real joy comes from things like connection, creativity, and community — not commerce.

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Ashley Nichole Thomas is a marriage and family therapist who’s passionate about shrinking her carbon footprint. In her free time she writes fantasy novels, and remains unconvinced that fairies don’t exist.