Nat Locke's 2026 Resolution: Embracing 'Less is More' After Clothing Spending Shock
Well, with the new year now well underway, it seems the perfect moment to finally declare those New Year's resolutions we've been contemplating. I've always maintained that January 1st is a terrible time to attempt significant life changes. You're either battling a hangover, still working through Christmas leftovers, or simply too disoriented to know what day it is.
Far better to spend some time ruminating, carefully considering what you genuinely want to change and how you might realistically achieve it. And without wanting to boast, I believe I've landed on an absolute belter of a resolution for 2026.
Reflecting on Last Year's Successes
First, let's revisit 2025. With some unexpected free time while bouncing around in a Mexican minibus, I decided to tackle numerous household projects that had been languishing for years. Most significantly, I achieved what felt like a minor miracle by transforming my junk-filled, festy garage into a rather impressive home gym, with considerable help from my trusty contractor.
The same skilled professional also repaired those lingering holes in my lounge room ceiling from air conditioning installation years prior. While many other items remained unchecked on my list, these two accomplishments were so substantial that I'm awarding myself a solid pass mark. Resolution successfully achieved, with no further discussion required.
The Startling Revelation That Sparked Change
This reflection brings me directly to my 2026 objective. I have made the firm decision to severely restrict my clothing purchases this year. The catalyst for this resolution came from a shocking discovery: I possess way too many clothes.
Following weight loss surgery a couple of years ago that necessitated replacing my entire wardrobe, and with the newfound ability to shop at any store I desired, I have accumulated a staggering number of garments. As an investigative exercise, I meticulously scoured my 2025 bank statements to calculate my total clothing expenditure.
The final figure was nothing short of startling, horrifying, and deeply embarrassing. I've asked several friends to guess the amount, and no one has come remotely close. The number is too mortifying to print, but whatever figure you're currently imagining, I assure you it's substantially higher. Remarkably, I don't even purchase fancy designer labels.
As a side note, you might consider selling any Country Road shares you own. This is not genuine financial advice, mind you. I don't even know if Country Road shares are publicly traded, and I should be the last person you consult for investment guidance.
The Practical Plan for Conscious Consumption
My concrete plan is to limit clothes shopping to no more than two items per month. While this might still sound generous to some, it represents a major reduction from my previous habits. Naturally, there are reasonable exceptions. Underwear and accessories don't count toward the limit.
If I accidentally set fire to my only raincoat, I'm permitted to replace it. Similarly, highly specific or technical items like a wetsuit, however unlikely that purchase may be, wouldn't consume one of my two monthly slots.
You might reasonably ask: Why not simply buy no clothes at all? This is an excellent question. The essence of my approach is to train myself to thoughtfully consider each clothing purchase rather than mindlessly clicking "add to cart." Now, I must ask: Is this garment worthy of one of my two precious monthly slots? This question makes me pause, reflect, and often reconsider.
Early Progress and Wardrobe Rediscovery
How is the resolution progressing so far? As we approach February, I've purchased only one item: a souvenir T-shirt from the Australian Open to commemorate a wonderful day spent there with a friend.
Meanwhile, I'm certainly not going naked. Instead, I've embarked on a delightful journey of shopping within my own wardrobe. I've rediscovered forgotten items and revisited pieces I hadn't worn in ages. To my surprise, I haven't encountered a single occasion or event I couldn't dress for using existing items.
Whether it's a black-tie gala, a deep-sea fishing trip, or a job interview at a crystal shop, my current wardrobe has me completely covered. This rediscovery has been both practical and surprisingly enjoyable.
Now, I can happily dream about all the money I'll be saving and how I might choose to spend it elsewhere. The 'less is more' philosophy isn't just about restraint; it's about creating space for more meaningful choices and rediscovering what we already possess.
