The Unlikely Path to Self-Restraint
As a self-proclaimed shopaholic, I never thought I’d take on a job as a shopping editor. But three months ago, I did just that. My new role involves researching baby formulas, toddler accessories, and breast pumps for a parenting website. But it’s not all about baby gear – I also scour the internet for the best deals on furniture, beauty products, clothing, and more.
The Temptation Is Real
Spending hours scrolling through products can be overwhelming, and it’s hard not to get tempted to add a few items to my cart. My biggest test so far was covering a major online shopping event, where I spent two days hunting down the best deals on toys, kitchen appliances, and tech gadgets. I even came close to buying a discounted eyeliner, but luckily, I remembered I had just purchased the same one from Sephora a few weeks prior.
Staying Disciplined
So, how do I resist the urge to shop ’til I drop? For starters, I keep my credit cards out of reach when I’m working on my laptop. It’s harder to make impulse purchases when I have to physically get up and find my wallet. I’ve also realized that there’s always another sale just around the corner, so there’s no need to rush into a purchase. And finally, reading hundreds of reviews for products has made me a pickier shopper – sometimes, knowing too much about a product can be a turn-off.
The Perks of Being a Shopping Editor
One of the best perks of my job is getting free samples sent to me to review. From storage containers to skincare products, it’s amazing to receive these goodies in the mail. But it’s also helped me realize that I don’t need more stuff in my life. Sometimes, I’ll bookmark items I genuinely like, but I always wait a week before deciding whether or not to make a purchase. I ask myself tough questions, like “Why do I really want to buy this?” and “Do I already have something similar?”
A Surprising Outcome
Ironically, since taking on this role, I’ve done less shopping than I have in years. And I plan on keeping it that way. It’s funny – when you’re surrounded by products all day, you start to realize what’s truly important. For me, it’s about living simply and not getting caught up in the temptation of constant consumption.
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