Want to Resist? Then Stop.
The Economics of Resistance: Starve Systems That Fail You
The U.S. economy thrives on consumption, with consumer spending making up 68% of the nation’s GDP. Every dollar we spend is a choice—a vote for the kind of world we want to create. But what happens when we withhold that vote? When we refuse to fund businesses, platforms, and institutions that undermine our values? Our money is the system’s lifeblood. We decide where that energy flows.
Resistance doesn’t always look like marches or signs. It doesn’t always sound like chants or speeches. While voting is crucial and public demonstrations create solidarity, one of the most powerful forms of resistance available to those living and working in the U.S. is something far quieter: stopping.
Stop Spending Where It Doesn't Align
Look at your budget. What if you cut your spending down to the bare essentials? How quickly would the system begin to morph to better reflect your values? Companies, organizations, and industries rely on our money. If we don’t like the direction they’re heading, we can withdraw our financial support.
It’s simple: starve what doesn't align with your values.
Stop Supporting Platforms That Work Against You
Don’t like what Elon Musk is doing? Stop using his products. Move to Bluesky, Mastodon, or step away from social media altogether. Don’t just complain—actively disengage. The same applies to any platform, corporation, or media outlet that profits off division or manipulation. If you’re driving a Tesla, consider alternatives. If you use Starlink, explore other options. If you subscribe to X Premium, cancel it. Your money fuels these ventures—if you don’t agree with them, stop funding them.
This is a call for strategic disengagement. Be intentional. Be relentless. Redirect your time, money, and attention away from what doesn’t align.
Stop Funding Organizations That Betray Your Values
How much did the Democratic National Committee spend on advertising with Fox News in the last election? I don't know, but if they did, every single dollar of that spending went to that news organization. Perhaps you feel it’s important to "engage with the other side." Well, just know that every single dollar to Fox ultimately helped elect the current administration. If you support that, fine. If you don’t, then consider where you spend your money, time, and support. If an organization you support financially then funnels money into a network or a company that works against your beliefs, reconsider your support. Demand better. Redirect your resources.
Stop Looking Away
Resistance isn’t just about withholding money; it’s also about attention. When someone is being bullied, harassed, or pushed to the margins, look directly at what’s happening. Support them. Offer help. Call out injustice in your daily life. Silence enables oppression.
Stop Engaging in Revenge Tactics
Retaliation is a tempting cycle, but it’s one that drains energy and rarely leads to real change. Instead of fueling negativity, redirect that energy toward meaningful action. Stop participating in outrage for outrage’s sake. Make your actions count.
Stop Worrying
Worry accomplishes nothing. Wake up, do your best work, take care of yourself, protect those who need protection, and then rest. Don’t waste time spiraling over the past or fearing the future. The most radical thing you can do is be present and intentional with your energy.
Stop Listening to Voices That Thrive on Division
Anyone pushing an "us vs. them" narrative is selling you something—often fear, outrage, or a sense of false belonging. That doesn’t mean you should ignore real issues or avoid taking a stand, but recognize when division is being used as a tool to distract and manipulate. The goal isn’t blind unity but intentional action. Instead of reacting to manufactured outrage, focus on tangible steps you can take. Call and write your senators, congresspeople, city officials, and businesses. Tell them where you stand and that you are willing to withdraw support from those who fuel division or undermine progress.
Just Stop—And Watch What Happens
If we all cut our spending by 20%, the system would shift. And fast.
This is a call for strategic disengagement. The be intentional. To be relentless. To redirect our time, money, and attention away from what doesn’t align.
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