Tricks to Prevent Stress or Sadness-Triggered Shopping

How often has your bank account suffered because your boss pissed you off, or you were going through a tough break-up, moved to a new place, lost a friend? It isn’t an urban myth. Some people seek instant pleasure in shopping whenever they feel bad and lonely.

However, sadness-triggered shopping isn’t good for your wallet, and let alone your mental health. Before we discuss ways to prevent shopping when you feel bad, let’s look at why this type of shopping is unhealthy.

Why is Sadness-Buying Bad for You?

The things you buy impulsively are often inexpensive, in mid-range from $40 – $100. But, despite the costs, impulse buying is your enemy number one if you are looking to save some money. On the other hand, the items you buy impulsively only provide a short-term feeling of happiness. They won’t fix the problem you have or make you feel good about yourself. Also, some people feel guilt after impulse buying, which gets them in a never-ending loop of impulse, stress-triggered shopping. First, they feel bad.

Then, they buy items to make them feel better. Once they can think clearly, those people might understand why the bought items are unnecessary and not money-well spent. Then, they feel bad again for not being able to control their emotions and credit cards. Some may even buy new items to make them feel good. The circle continues, and people aren’t even aware that they are in the loop. Stress-triggered shopping masks the real issue you are going through, and they prevent you from dealing with it and confronting your emotions.

How to Prevent Yourself from Buying out of Sadness?

Embrace your feelings and allow yourself to feel sad for the moment. Don’t seek short-term pleasures. A study showed that sadness makes people spend more, so think about what you would do better with your money instead of spending it on meaningless items. Restraining yourself from shopping when you are said, is a huge step. So, the next section is for you.

Stay in Charge of Your Wallet with the Next Tips

Here are some tips to help you overcome your urge to click Add in the chart whenever you feel lonely or sad.

#1 Clean

Cleaning your home or workspace is an effective way to distract yourself from choosing new clothes and shoes. Get your hands dirty, and thoroughly clean your kitchen, bathroom and closet. Go through your makeup collection and declutter. Get rid of all unnecessary items, and you’ll feel you have more space to breathe and feel better.

During the process, you’ll discover some items you might have forgotten about!

#2 Call a Friend

Before you decide to spend money, call your friend and discuss whether it is a good idea. That way, you’ll delay your impulse decision to buy new things, so your mind might get clearer. Hopefully, your friend will advise you against unnecessary money spending. You’ll also get a chance to discuss the real reasons behind your impulse urge to shop with someone who you have trust in and who you love.

#3 Do Self Care

When you’re in a bad mood, putting on a face mask and relaxing in the tub will make you feel as good as if you’ve just purchased a new pair of shoes. On top of everything, you’ll get a chance to calm down and reflect on your current situations and thoughts.