Submitted by always_napping_zzz t3_12818qi in personalfinance
So I understand all the basic advice, like making a budget, replacing expensive things with cheaper alternatives, etc. However, I’m looking more for ways to change my mindset, or just little hacks/tricks that I can use to break this unhealthy habit. I really think that the dopamine rush of buying stuff has just made me almost addicted to it :((
My issue seems to be impulsive (?) buying. When I want something, I get it. I’m also easily influenced into buying things. In terms of what I spend the most money, I think it’s takeout, books, skincare, perfume (small sizes though) and coffee (Starbucks eats up all my money!).
I’m a uni student and I have almost no income. Also, I don’t come from money. Like at all. In fact, I think it’s not being able to buy stuff when I was a kid that contributed to this issue.
Any advice is really appreciated!!
Edit: thank you all for the advice! To summarize, here’s what most people told me: 1) delay purchases to make sure it’s not an impulsive buy, 2) think of money in terms of hours worked, 3) track your spending, 4) redirect the focus to utilizing saving money as the primary way of getting the dopamine rush, and 5) think of ways that would make spending money more difficult/inconvenient. If you are also struggling with overspending, know that you aren’t alone. Hopefully we can all learn to navigate this consumerist culture in a mindful and intentional manner <3
Edit 2: I’ve never watched breaking bad so I didn’t realize that the title of this post is misleading haha but fr please no more breaking bad references lmao
Edit 3: I don’t have any credit card debt so my spending problem isn’t out of hand. I’m just trying to nip it in the bud early!