Shopping is not a bad thing. In fact, it can be a great activity to relieve some stress. However, it can become unhealthy if you do it the wrong way. For example, you spend too much time and money on shopping things you don’t really need or don’t have any value for your life. Shopping can be consuming and addicted for some people. Some people are even willing to do anything to get money to buy the things they want because of that addiction.
Changing your unhealthy shopping habits
Any kind of addiction is challenging to shop and it is applied to shopping addiction and unhealthy habits as well. However, it is possible for you to change it so you have healthier life to live in aside from wasting money.
Pause before following the urge to shop
One of the most common reasons is that it is a fun escape from problems. It could be your coping mechanism when facing a problem in life. Keep in mind that the relief you feel is just temporary and the problem is still there after you spent all that hard-earned money. Hence, take a pause for a moment when the urge to shop comes. Ask yourself what you are avoiding exactly. Even if it doesn’t stop you from shopping, it can help you realize what problems you are truly facing.
Find out what trigger you to shop uncontrollably
There are many reasons why you seem like cannot escape from shopping. It can be because you are surrounded by the people who have those unhealthy shopping habits as well. Or, it can be because shopping uncontrollably has been a part of your culture in your close community or circle. If this is the case, you can try setting up clear boundaries between yourself and what triggers your urge to shop. Hence, you are no longer influenced by others when it comes to shopping decision.
Consider the true cost before buying something
More often than not, shopaholic don’t realize how much they spend and what it cost. Hence, they keep buying more unnecessary stuffs. Sometimes, it is simply out of habits that you scroll through shopping platform online then make a purchase. It could be the money you’ve earned from difficult project you finished in weeks that you spent in just few minutes. Hence, make sure to ask yourself the cost of what you are going to purchase. Rethink your choice so you can make better decision for your money and life.
Find alternatives
If shopping has become your hobby or a way to escape from whatever is happening in your life, you can try to find the alternatives. For example, you can try to learn new new hobby that brings more positivity to yourself or even others. Also, practice mindfulness to help stop unhealthy shopping habits. For example, think to give back to your community instead by donating to people in need. It helps you learn more about compassion, empathy, and kindness which can help reduce the urge of meaningless shopping.
