She Strengthens

Breaking the Cycle of Impulse Spending

As I scrolled through my email inbox, a familiar subject line caught my attention: “Barbwire Flaming Heart Pendant With Black Stones On A Chain In Antique Silver.” It took me a moment to recall the eBay purchase, but then it all came flooding back – the YouTube rabbit hole of Guns N’ Roses music videos, the decision to shop the look, and the justification of the $15 purchase as a unique bargain.

A Pattern of Behavior

This wasn’t an isolated incident. Over the past year, I’d developed a habit of buying accessories on eBay, usually rings and necklaces with free shipping. My weakness, however, lies in designer clothing. I’ve splurged on Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs dresses for $40 or $50, only to find they didn’t fit and ended up passing them on to my sisters or donating them to charity. The process of returning items seemed too daunting, so I’d rather let them go.

The Thrill of the Hunt

As an avid op-shopper since my early teens, I’ve always prided myself on being thrifty. But beneath the surface, I was hiding a spending problem. I’d wonder where my money went, but the truth was, I was consistently spending a few hundred dollars each month without realizing it. The eBay notifications served as a wake-up call, forcing me to confront the reality of my financial situation.

Confronting the Problem

It’s easy to downplay my spending habits, especially when compared to those who are deeply in debt. However, the fact remains that I’m not saving enough, and my careless spending is cutting into essential expenses like dentist visits, short courses, and travel. As someone who rents and can’t rely on parental support, I need to take control of my finances.

A Reality Check

The thrill of the hunt, whether online or at op shops, has led me to make sentimental purchases rather than investing in staple items. I’ve bought cheap opal rings and Gucci knock-offs instead of saving for quality pieces. It’s time for a reality check, not a wardrobe inspired by 90s grunge.

Taking Action

To break the cycle of impulse spending, I’ve taken two crucial steps: deleting the eBay app and unsubscribing from fashion-related junk mail. I’ve also set up a high-interest savings account, which direct debits $30 from my main account each week. These small changes have already made a significant impact, and I’m determined to continue improving my financial habits.

A New Path Forward

It’s not about depriving myself of things I enjoy, but about being mindful of my spending habits and prioritizing my financial security. By acknowledging the problem and taking steps to address it, I feel more in control of my finances. It’s a journey, not a destination, and I’m committed to making progress, one small step at a time.