This month we’re talking about overconsumption — the habits we don’t always notice, the pressure to upgrade everything, and the weird cultural whiplash of going from Thanksgiving gratitude straight into Black Friday chaos.

I share how my own relationship with “more” has shifted over the years, why sustainability matters to me, and what I’ve learned from seeing overconsumption up close while traveling. We get into holiday waste, the dopamine of buying, the guilt-free power of pausing, and what it looks like to celebrate without drowning in stuff.

This episode isn’t about perfection or giving up the things you love.

It’s about awareness, intention, and choosing what actually fills you — not just your cart.

In this episode:

• Why overconsumption is so normalized

• How identity gets tied to buying

• The rise in holiday waste + what we can actually do

• The “pause” habit that changed my spending

• Redefining celebration in a way that feels lighter

• Small choices that create real ripple effects

A softer, more intentional season starts with noticing what’s already yours — the people, the home, the light, the presence.

Take a second to comment, like, share, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Check out our website: www.thehappilyliving.com

Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/rwhRsBCAnx8

Instagram: ⁨@TheHappilyLiving⁩

With love and light,

Gabrielle

We talk a lot about change — big goals, big ideas, big outcomes — but the truth is, most change begins quietly. It starts with a shift in how we think, what we choose, and how we show up. This episode is about the ripple effect: the way small, intentional actions create movement far beyond what we can see.

From the water we use to the energy we give off in conversation, our lives are constantly influencing everything around us. The question is — are we aware of it? “The Ripple Effect” invites you to look closer at how your everyday choices, habits, and mindset shape the world you live in, and how slowing down to notice those ripples can help you create better ones.

Key Takeaways

• Change doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.
• Energy — whether it’s in your words, your routine, or your environment — always travels.
• Living sustainably starts with self-awareness, not self-criticism.
• Bring your water bottle with you every where, don't be a crusty b***h :) <3

Quotes

“Sustainability isn't about perfection— it's participation”

"The Earth doesn't need us — we need the Earth"

“When you realize you’re already creating impact — even in small ways — that’s when it starts to multiply.”

Resources

• Native Plant and Lawn Guide for Michigan
• Simple Ways to Reduce Water Waste at Home
• Previous Episode: The Shift — Choosing Grace, Nature & Perspective During Seasonal Stress

Thank you for listening to The Happily Living Podcast. If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need the reminder. Every share, every listen, and every small act of awareness adds to the ripple.

Until next time — stay mindful, stay curious, and keep living happily.

🌿✨ It’s August, baby!!! ✨🌿

What better time than now to revisit the true PURPOSE of The Happily Living. Whether you’re brand new or part of our crew since day one—welcome home. 💚

We all need a refresher sometimes (I know I did!). Why are we here? What is The Happily Living really about? Why does living authentically, naturally, and simply feel like both a trend and a necessity? And why has convenience been sold to us at three times the cost? 🤯

This short episode dives into how we can show up for ourselves—right here, right now—through every season of life. 🌸🌞🍂❄️

🎙️ Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts!

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✨ Internship Opportunity! ✨ We’re currently reviewing our Indeed listing, but all the details are already up on our website. Head there for info if you or someone you know would love to join the crew.

💌 As always, we’re so grateful for your support. Please leave a review to help us reach more hearts and homes this community can touch. xo

With Love & Light, The Happily Living Crew 🌿