Surviving a shopping detox is difficult. There’s no magic pill or patches to take away the cravings. That said, there’s no better way to save money fast. If you are ready to take the plunge, there are ways to make the process easier – even enjoyable.
By Melina Byrne, Money Maven.
How to Save Money with a Shopping Detox
Step one: Conduct a wardrobe inventory
Many of us buy a lot of clothes. So when we start a detox, the first thing to do is clean out our wardrobes. Tip everything that you own into one enormous pile, and when you see that Mount Everest of clothing, it is easier to appreciate that you already have the outfits you need for evert occasion. You do not need to buy more clothing.
Also, reacquainting yourself with each item can also revive your affection for your wardrobe. Old favourites with fond memories attached to them might be reintroduced into your weekly staples. Even if you don’t rediscover fabulous ensembles this can be a fun trip down memory lane.
By the time you’ve conquered this mountain of clothes, often a whole weekend has gone by. You haven’t even thought about shopping, and you’ve rekindled your love for your current wardrobe. Neat huh?
Step two: Distract yourself
Our shopping urges usually go into overdrive on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons. So during a detox, make sure to keep yourself busy during these times. Book appointments or drag yourself to the gym. It’s hard to think about going shopping after three agonising sets of stomach crunches. Another great approach is to do your shopping detox with friends. Keeping each other company, catching up for a DVD night or spending a day at the beach can be great ways to avoid thinking about heading to the shops.
Step three: Remove temptation
If you are a chronic credit card abuser, the best way to avoid impulse splurging is to remove the credit card from your wallet all together. Carry cash in quantities appropriate to your daily needs rather than retaining the ability to spend as much as you like at any given moment.
Other helpful resources for your shopping detox:
We recommend you read How To Give Up Shopping (Or At Least Cut Down), a book by Australian author Neradine Tisaj. See her website https://www.howtogiveupshopping.com/ for stockists and more info.
If you feel your shopping habit is out of control, check out the Australian Psychological Society’s article on compulsive buying: https://www.psychology.org.au/publications/inpsych/shopping/
Relationships Australia can also assist with shopping addictions. Visit: https://www.relationships.com.au/advice/faqs/FAQ155.faq/base_view
