Have a No-Repeat Week
We all have routines that keep life running smoothly—our favourite grocery stores, go-to dinners, that end-of-week takeout habit. But what if those comforting routines are quietly costing us more than we think?
Let me introduce a fun little experiment that could shake things up in the best way: the No-Repeat Week.
What’s a No-Repeat Week?
A no-repeat week is where you challenge yourself not to repeat any money-related action. That means no duplicate meals, no shopping at the same place twice, no repeating entertainment activities—even consider taking a different driving route if you’re feeling adventurous!
The idea is to break the cycle of mindless spending and discover what you actually enjoy, need, or already have on hand.
How to Do a No-Repeat Week
Here are a few simple things to try:
🍽️ No Duplicate Meals
Skip the usual spaghetti or weekly pizza night. Instead, cook from what’s already in the pantry, swap recipes with a friend, or try a “clean out the fridge” stir-fry.
Try changing up your meals
Use what is in your pantry to make a different meal
🛒 No Repeat Shops
If you typically shop at one grocery store, consider a budget-friendly alternative, such as a discount grocer or a small local market. Even better—see if you can skip shopping altogether for a day or two and make do with what’s at home.
🎬 No Repeat Entertainment
Watched a movie last night? Tonight, go for a walk, dig out a board game, or host a DIY spa night with a homemade face mask and candlelight. If you have kids, include them on all of these things, especially a spa night. They will enjoy it too.
Don’t repeat entertainment
Pull out a puzzle or paints for your family to do something different
🚗 No Repeat Errands
Combine your errands creatively. Walk if you can. Skip a drive and mail something online. This not only saves money but also makes you aware of how often you're out and about spending.
Why It Works
This little challenge helps in a few big ways:
You pause the autopilot. So many purchases happen because they’re familiar—not because they’re the best option.
You rediscover what you already own. Half-read books, unused craft supplies, or frozen leftovers get a second chance.
You make room for creativity. Trying new things becomes a fun experiment, not a restriction.
Make It Fun
Keep a small journal during your No-Repeat Week. What did you try? What surprised you? What did you miss, and what turned out to be more fun than expected?
Invite your family or friends to join you, or share your No-Repeat moments on social media—it might just inspire someone else to break their own cycle of spending.
Make it enjoyable
Invite family and friends to join you in your no-repeat week to see how you can inspire each other
Saving money doesn’t always have to mean cutting back. Sometimes, it just means living a little differently for a while. A No-Repeat Week is a playful way to shift your habits, spark creativity, and maybe even uncover a new favourite meal, walk, or pastime in the process.
Give it a try—comment below and let me know how it goes!