According to research, Americans spent a record $3.4 billion a day on average and $1.2 trillion in total in 2023 on online shopping (1). They spent $324 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023, a 7% increase from the previous year.
The pandemic boosted internet purchasing, and people have been clicking ever since because it is convenient, fast, and easy. Online purchasing can, however, become compulsive. It might be difficult to resist the allure and ease of internet shopping at times.
Addiction to internet shopping is real. With only a tap of a smartphone and endless scans through product galleries, it’s simpler than ever to fall into a destructive, compulsive buying cycle. Is it time to have a change of heart regarding your internet purchases?
Recognize some serious warning indicators and take a reality check. These include:
- Being deceitful about how much you spend on friends and relatives
- Having a high or a flush of excitement after making an internet buy
- Keeping up impulsive spending despite mounting debt or other unfavorable outcomes
- If you frequently feel bad about or regret what you’ve bought
- Finding yourself thinking about shopping or your next buy all the time
- If your shopping habits cause you to miss work, school, or social events
5 Way to Stop Giving into the Habit
Here’s how to stop the habit of internet shopping if your savings account needs it:
1. Cut off the temptation.
Get rid of the apps that are luring you in. Unsubscribe from the retailers offering you offers with 20% off. In fact, unsubscribe from retail newsletters altogether. If you’re going to shop, make a conscious effort to buy rather than letting algorithms trick you into buying things you didn’t even realize you needed.
Establishing a 24-hour waiting time before making a purchase is another way to fight the urge. The adversary is instant gratification. It’s likely that the desire will pass, and you’ll realize you don’t need the sophisticated device or the adorable shoes.
2. Recognize yourself.
It’s critical to identify triggers such as guilt, financial hardship, and compulsive surfing to properly manage compulsive internet purchasing behaviors.
Knowing what sets you off allows you to go into protective mode. If you shop when you’re depressed or experiencing the blues, set your phone or laptop aside and engage in a pleasurable activity instead of shopping.
3. Recognize the motivation for your change.
What effects does your life have from online shopping? Maybe it’s keeping you in a condition of financial instability. Or hindering your ability to attain your financial goals like saving for retirement. Or disrupting significant relationships like the one you have with yourself. Determine the reason in detail and put it in writing. Go over this every day. It will assist you in making changes.
![How to Kick Your Online Shopping Obsession in 5 Steps](https://i0.wp.com/jasminefeliciano.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/How-to-Kick-Your-Online-Shopping-Obsession-in-5-Steps-pin.png?resize=683%2C1024&quality=80&ssl=1)
4. Think strategically.
Establish a different debit card and bank account and decide on a monthly spending limit. Establish a monthly recurring payment to the account in the amount specified. Now that you have a limited amount of money, you will carefully consider everything you buy. You won’t be able to spend more than you have given yourself.
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5. Avoid going it alone.
Find a friend or family member (someone who is proven to be practical and good with money!) who you can confide in about your shopping problems to serve as your accountability partner. They might encourage you or act as a check on your impulsive purchases. Don’t discount the possibility of getting professional assistance from a therapist if online shopping is a significant issue.
To Wrap Things Up
In today’s world, the convenience of online shopping has led to unprecedented spending, with Americans reaching a record in 2023. However, this ease of access can also lead to compulsive buying behaviors, negatively impacting financial stability and personal well-being.
By recognizing triggers, setting spending limits, and seeking accountability, individuals can regain control over their online shopping habits. Implementing strategies like a 24-hour waiting period before purchases and unsubscribing from retail emails can also help curb impulsive spending. Taking these steps can foster healthier financial habits and improve overall well-being.
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Great article! And I saw it at the perfect time. If I need to change one thing in my life right now, it’s curbing my online shopping habit!
Awesome and youโre most welcome! Glad it served as a helpful reminder ๐
Love this post! Definitely trying to spend less on things I don’t need.
Thank you kindly! Being mindful and spending less is so worth it ๐
I definitely need to follow these steps because I am such a shopaholic! Thank you so much for these helpful tips ๐
Youโre most welcome, glad it was insightful ๐ซถ๐ฝ