Memo 003: You Don’t Need More Stuff

Unpstd – A weekly memo for men tired of the feed brought to you by OTW

SUBJECT: Buy Less, Live More. So Radical.

Unpopular opinion:
The dopamine rush fades.
Every time you unbox something, the clock starts ticking. And by the time the receipt email hits, you’re already onto the next thing.

We’re stuck in an endless loop of cart, checkout, regret.

Not because we’re stupid, (some are) but because we’ve been conditioned.

Social media turned consumption into identity.
You’re not just buying shoes. You’re buying status.
You’re not just upgrading your phone. You’re upgrading you.

It’s all a trap.

They Want You Restless

The algorithm doesn’t care if you’re fulfilled.
It only cares that you’re scrolling.

That’s why it’s never done recommending:

• “Spring essentials you NEED”

• “10 Amazon must-haves you didn’t know you couldn’t live without”

• “What every man should have by 30”

It’s not content.
It’s curated insecurity.

Buy this. Feel better.
Repeat until broke.

Why This Hurts Men More Than We Admit

Men don’t always talk about this stuff, but it’s real:

• We’re taught to measure ourselves by what we own.

• We’re told success is a lifestyle, not a mindset.

• We’re tricked into believing upgrades = progress.

What if you didn’t chase the latest drop?
What if you wore the same watch for 10 years—and it got better with time?
What if you stopped performing for an audience that isn’t even paying attention?

Sounds like freedom.

Try This Instead:

1. Make a list of what actually adds value to your life.
   Not status. Not image. Utility.

2. Unfollow every “lifestyle” account that exists to sell you stuff.
   They don’t care about your life—just your clicks.

3. Replace buying with building.
   Buy tools, not trophies. And then use them.

4. Be the guy who wears out, not trades up.
   Patina beats polish every time.

The Flex Is In the Restraint

Here’s the truth no one wants to admit:

Most of the “cool” stuff you see online will be worthless in 6 months.
But the ability to say no to it? That sticks.

Minimalism isn’t an aesthetic—it’s an advantage.
You think clearer. Spend better. Live quieter.
It’s not about owning less—it’s about being owned by less.

Stop keeping up.
Start opting out.

That’s the real upgrade.