In 2026, the trendiest diet is ‘No Buy January,’ where people cut back on consumerism instead of carbs. More than one in 10 Americans joined this challenge this year, aiming to stop buying nonessentials for a set period. Essential spending like groceries and rent is allowed. Popular on social media, these challenges promote mindfulness in spending habits.

Some participants take extreme measures like locking credit cards. Even those not struggling financially, like a digital marketer from New York, join to cut discretionary spending. No-buy challenges are a response to economic uncertainty and job anxiety. Goals include saving money, resetting spending habits, and regaining control in a chaotic world.

It’s okay if a full no-buy month isn’t sustainable. Setting boundaries in one category of non-essential spending, like dining out or online shopping, can still make a big difference. Redirecting funds saved toward short-term goals, muting marketing emails, and creating friction to slow down impulse buys are effective strategies to develop new financial habits.

No-buy challenges don’t have to be all-or-nothing. Even scaling back in one or two categories can free up cash and help track where money goes. The biggest payoff isn’t just saving money in a month, but creating lasting financial habits.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Many Americans tried, and failed, to cut spending for ‘No Buy January’. How to cut back without depriving yourself