Do you ever feel like you own so many things: makeup, skincare, books, candles, clothes, or even snacks in your pantry, but end up ignoring half of them? I know I do and I am sure I am not alone. In a world where it’s so easy to buy more. We are going from buying one trendy item to the next one. And sometimes we just forget to use and enjoy the things we already own. That’s where Project Pan comes in.
Originally a beauty community challenge, Project Pan has grown into a lifestyle trend: a fun and mindful way to actually use the things you already own instead of constantly chasing the next new thing. It’s about slowing down, reducing waste, and appreciating what’s already in your home. I am definitely loving this ‘trend’.
What is Project Pan?
Project Pan is a self-imposed challenge where you commit to finishing or making progress on the items you already have. The term “pan” started with makeup, referring to the shiny bottom of a product pan once you’ve used it up. But today, people apply the same mindset to all kinds of possessions.
It can mean:
- Reading unread books from your shelf
- Burning through your candle collection
- Wearing the clothes you already own more often
- Using skincare and beauty products before buying new ones
- Finishing snacks or teas in your kitchen before opening more
The goal isn’t to deprive yourself—it’s about being intentional, mindful, and getting joy out of the things you once loved enough to bring home. It is also about not buying too many things while we still have enough of a similar item at home.
Tips to Start Your Own Project Pan
1. Choose a Category
Start small. Pick one area of your life—makeup, books, candles, or clothes. This keeps it fun and manageable.
2. Set Clear Goals
Your goals can be flexible:
- Finish a specific product (like a lotion or candle)
- Use an item a certain number of times (like wearing a dress 10 times)
- Make progress (like reading halfway through your TBR pile)
3. Track Your Progress
Take photos, keep a checklist, or journal your experience. Seeing how far you’ve come keeps you motivated and makes it satisfying.
4. Stay Flexible
Don’t force yourself to use something you truly dislike. If it doesn’t bring you joy or doesn’t work for you anymore, it’s okay to donate, gift, or recycle it. Project Pan is about mindful use, not guilt.
5. Limit New Purchases
Pair Project Pan with a no-buy or low-buy period. For example, promise yourself you won’t buy another candle until you’ve finished two from your collection. Only buy new things when your nail polish bottle or perfume bottle is empty. The good thing is that this project pan will also help you to save more money.
6. Celebrate Your Wins
Every finished product, worn outfit, or read book is an accomplishment. Celebrate the little wins and enjoy the process.
💬 Final Thoughts
Project Pan is more than a challenge. it’s a mindset shift. It’s about valuing what you already have instead of always searching for more. Whether you’re finishing a lipstick, finally burning that fancy candle, or making progress on your book stack, you’ll find a sense of satisfaction in actually using your things. I think in the end you will become more intentional about the things you are buying. A lot of people buy things because they are trending, but if you commit to project pan you will become aware of the things/products you actually like.
So look around your home—what could you start “panning” today?
Photo by pmv chamara on Unsplash