She Strengthens

Breaking Free from the Grip of Impulse Shopping

As I reflect on my spending habits, I’m forced to confront a harsh reality: I have a shopping problem. When I need a break from work, I find myself browsing online marketplaces or strolling through stores, often ending up with purchases I don’t truly need. It’s not just a harmless indulgence; it’s a pattern that’s preventing me from achieving my financial goals.

A Life Change Sparks New Resolve

Recently, I’ve experienced a significant change in my life, moving from a pricey studio in New York City to living with my parents in Ohio. This shift has allowed me to save money, pay off credit cards, and buy a car. However, I’ve come to realize that having extra cash doesn’t mean I should squander it on frivolous purchases. It’s time to take my financial discipline to the next level.

Uncovering the Roots of My Shopping Habit

To overcome my shopping addiction, I need to understand what drives it. After some introspection, I’ve identified five key reasons:

• Body Insecurity: I’m currently heavier than I’d like, and I often buy clothes to compensate for my self-perceived flaws. Instead of focusing on healthy weight loss, I’ve been using shopping as a quick fix.
• The Illusion of Self-Improvement: I sometimes believe that the perfect outfit will transform me into a better person. This flawed thinking leads me to buy clothes I don’t need, hoping they’ll magically boost my confidence or productivity.
• Fear of Repeating Outfits: With a packed social calendar, I worry about being seen in the same outfit multiple times. This irrational fear pushes me to buy new clothes, even when I already have a suitable wardrobe.
• Influencer Envy: I enjoy following influencers on social media, but their curated feeds often inspire me to make impulse purchases. I need to recognize that their lifestyles aren’t realistic or sustainable for me.
• The Thrill of the Hunt: Let’s face it – shopping can be fun! But there are other enjoyable activities in life, and I need to explore those instead of relying on retail therapy.

The Two-Month Shopping Ban

Starting August 23, 2017, I’m embarking on a two-month shopping ban. During this period, I’ll avoid buying clothing, shoes, trinkets, and household items. I’ll still allow myself to enjoy social outings with friends, as those aren’t contributing to my shopping addiction.

To stay accountable, I’ll maintain a diary to track my progress and analyze my impulses. By doing so, I hope to develop healthier habits and a more mindful approach to spending.

Stay Tuned for Updates

I plan to share my experiences halfway through and at the end of the two months. Follow me on Twitter to stay updated on my journey towards financial discipline and self-awareness.