Introduction
Consumerism has the nation in a chokehold, with many of us struggling with the addiction of buying things we don’t really need. I mean, how many of us are paying for monthly subscriptions for things we don’t use? Or saw a catchy advert or an influencers post, caved in and bought the item just to never use it?
We throw the term “shopalcoholic” around very casually and light-heartedly. However, compulsive shopping is a real thing, and can be a serious problem. It’s a type of behavioral addiction that can be just as bad as drugs or alcoholism.
But no addiction is impossible to overcome. If you feel as though you are struggling with a shopping addiction, the guide below will provide different tips that will help you overcome it.
The Psychology Behind Compulsive Buying
Humans have always valued possessions, however consumer culture as we know it today is a fairly recent phenomenon. In the past, people restricted themselves to only buying what they needed, and then only splurging on luxury items once in a while. Now presently in the 21st century, the intention behind shopping has changed. It’s now transformed into a recreational activity, a coping mechanism, a career choice, and even a source of identity.
There are several reasons psychology has discovered to explain why people engage in unnecessary spending. One being instant gratification. Buying something new triggers the release of dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitter, in our brains. This temporary feeling of pleasure makes us want to repeat the behaviour, thus forming a habit loop.
Psychologists have identified several reasons why people engage in unnecessary spending. One major factor is instant gratification. Buying something new triggers the release of dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter—in our brains. This temporary high encourages us to repeat the behavior, forming a habit loop. Unfortunately, the satisfaction is fleeting, often followed by buyer’s remorse or a nagging sense of emptiness. And because this feeling is brief, people repeat the cycle again to regenerate that feeling.
Social comparison is another. Social media is typically the main cause of it. We go on the platforms and are flooded with posts and stories featuring new purchases, exotic vacations and designer wardrobes. Despite the fact we know that these pictures are a small representation of the parts people want you to see and not their actual reality, the subconscious urge to “keep up” makes us want to impulsively spend, even if it’s beyond our means.
Other Reasons
Beyond psychology, modern advertisement plays a huge role behind compulsive buying, because it’s engineered to exploit our psychological vulnerabilities. They use phrases targeted at people’s insecurities, whether it’s looking younger, guaranteed success and a sophisticated appearance, to get them to buy a product.
Additionally, the rise in fast fashion and planned obsolescence has made it easier to accumulate possession. Clothes are designed to fall apart within a few seasons, and newer tech gadgets are released every year. This cycle therefore keeps consumers constantly chasing the next new things, even if their current possessions are still in good condition.
Furthermore, online shopping has blurred the line between need and want. Being able to purchase an item with just a few clicks, alongside targeted ads and personalized recommendations, buying impulsively has never been easier. I mean you can do it from the comfort of your bed! And the rise of buy now pay later services such as Klarna, financial restrictions are limited allowing consumers accumulate debt in the pursuit of instant gratification.
The Dangers of Compulsive Spending and How to Stop
Impulsive spending can have very harmful effects, including hoarding, excessive debt and maxed-out outdraft, Mentally, chronic overconsumption leads to negative emotions, such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem.
Breaking the cycle isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible. Here are some tips on how you to stop:
- Identity Emotional Triggers: Be self-aware of the emotions and situations that could lead to compulsive shopping. Are you purchasing this item because you genuinely need it, or for instant gratification. Acknowledging this is the first step to change.
- Have a Budget: This will help you set spending boundaries. Track your expenses and take note of where your money is going. Then allocate a reasonable amount for non-essentials. Most importantly, stick to it!
- Unsubscribe and Unfollow: If you know you’re going to be attempted by ads, promotional emails and social media posts, unsubscribe and unfollow. Out of sight, out of mind.
- Enforce the 24hr rule: Before making a non-essential purchase, wait 24 hours. The pause gives you time to reflect and decide whether the purchase is necessary.
- Find Healthier Coping Mechanisms: Replacing shopping with activities and hobbies that provide genuine fulfilment, not temporary ones. Exercising, reading, taking up a class are healthier outlets for releasing stress and emotions, and weakening shopping addictions.
- Bonus Tip: Seek Professional Help: If you notice this to be a severe problem in your life, consider speaking with a financial advisor or a mental health professional to address and resolve it.
Conclusion
A shopping addiction is hard to overcome, but not impossible. We must understand why we fall into such habits, acknowledge them and behavioural patterns that lead to such splurges, before finally addressing and resolving it once and for all.
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