HOW TO STOP SHOPPING: QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE YOU BUY 💸

Hey everyone! This video is all about some more questions I ask myself before I decide to buy, but more related to the emotional connection and emotional state I might be in that's triggering me to shop. I'm learning that there is a strong connection to the feeling of desiring/coveting, and how we are feeling inside in the times we covet.
As I go through this Low Buy Year, I'm learning a lot about the mental and emotional triggers that drive me to shop, and how I can pay more attention to these feelings when I'm feeling low or tempted. I hope some of these questions encourage you to slow down and feel those feelings too when you notice or catch yourself in the midst of shopping, or wanting to shop.
I realize some of these questions may be repeats from previous videos, but there are many different angles to approach the answer to these questions, so I hope you find this particular perspective helpful.
Please subscribe if you want to see more content on my Low Buy and how it's going. I've got lots of videos coming, next being how I'm doing since my first video and more. Thank you for the support so far and thank you for the 10K! 🤗
#lowbuy #minimalism #howtostopshopping
MY PREVIOUS VIDEOS ON HOW TO STOP SHOPPING:
• HOW TO STOP SHOPPING |...
PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE & MOTIVATE ME:
HANNAH LOUISE POSTON - NO BUY and BEAUTY BUDGET bit.ly/2HsWmgh
AJA DANG bit.ly/2HuKx9m
DAVE RAMSEY bit.ly/2Hw7zwJ
MATT D'AVELLA bit.ly/2LMGyGF
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TIME STAMPS:
Intro 0:00 to 2:03
Do I Need It? 2:09
Am I Bored? 4:06
Am I Stressed? 5:39
Does It "Fit" In The Budget? 6:47
Do I Have The Cash Right Now? 8:37
How Much Will This Purchase Set Me Back From My Goals? 9:34
Will I Feel Gross After I Buy This? 12:50
Will It Make Me Happy? 14:33
How Will My Life Be Different Now That I Have TheThing? 16:17 👉🏻 This video provoked this question in particular for me - check it out for more on this bit.ly/2IFtm5L
It It Worth It? 18:36
FTC: This video is NOT sponsored.
ABOUT ME:🌿
Hi, I'm Christina - I'm a blogger slash vlogger slash human on the internet slash pharmacist sometimes, hence the "apothecary" theme in my name. I'm currently living in Toronto, Canada and on my channel you'll find fashion and styling videos, lifestyle content and check-in's on my LOW BUY YEAR. I'm happy to take any requests, too! Your girl is flexible (not physically). Feel free to leave me a comment below - I always make sure to read and respond, and I love chatting with you guys. Be sure to follow me on Instagram too - that's where I post my daily outfits and photography, and where I interact with you guys the most. Thank you SO much for watching and taking the time out of your day to support my teeny little channel. Love xx, Christina.

[@Christinamychas]

What are some questions you ask before you buy? Xo you can do it!

[@elizabethanne4513]

Impulse buying grocery items are often junk food for me. The question “Will I feel gross?” Hit home. Although the junk food may taste great in the moment; it will, however, upset my sensitive stomach for hours afterwards. Not totally focussed on financial goals but more health goals.

[@bdilley3310]

How many outfits can I make with this/ will this be an efficient and versatile item in my wardrobe?

[@jannagrosse8057]

Before I buy anything, I ask myself: What would make me happier: a) This thing I’m going to buy or b) If someone came up out of nothing and gave me the exact amount of money in cash as a gift. Most of the time it’s B 😄

[@marmalade3024]

Hi 🤗 can you please do a video of all of ypyr wardrobe items? I think it would really help meeee with my shopping addiction for clothes 🤗 thaank u so much, btw love your videos, they are so inspiring and I learn a lot from then 💕

[@itoshiibaka8267]

I ask where and of what it was made, then whether it's absolutely perfect and exactly how I want, and finally whether I can picture it in my space or closet. I will be incorporating your long-term thinking, though, for sure! I've just joined your low buy. My goal is March 1, but if I succeed I'll keep going!

[@marynorton6068]

Love your content. It bothers me enormously that I’m highly educated and intelligent yet for years I convinced myself that stuff would bring me joy. Really I was probably avoiding the hard questions of why was I unhappy, why was I looking for the high I thought I’d get from shopping?

[@Christinamychas]

Mary Norton meeeee too Mary. There’s a lot of looking inward in shopping and spending behaviour. I’m learning so much. We are strong! Xo

[@carieyoung1111]

Right here with you! Recovered and loving the simple life...blessings

[@rachelaknight]

Just saw your comment Mary. A lot of the reasons are the stuff we've absorbed in childhood from all around us. May I recommend Christie marie sheldons work on letting go of it. I'm not sponsored or anything. Just doing her course and getting A LOT out of it. ..It's an investment in itself but has got me turned around and enjoying and valuing money. BIG LOVE X

[@NaturalJournee]

Same here! You are def not alone in this feeling lol

[@lizziebkennedy7505]

It me!

[@JT-wn8uc]

Thanks for good video. For my reference as reminders - 10 questions: 1. Do I need this? - Why do you want it? Do I have similar items already? 2. Am I bored now? - Find your passion to fill your. Find something else to do. 3. Am I stressed or feeling down? 4. Does it fit into my budget? 5. Do I have cash right now to buy it? - Not use credit cards. Physically see money being spent. 6. How much does this purchase set me back on my long term goals? - Think about your financial journey and experiential activities that create memories. 7. Will I regret my buys? - After short lived high, would you feel bad or embarrassed? 8. Will this bring me happiness? - Usually materials don't bring happiness in long term. Usually personal connections do. 9. How will your life be better with this item? - Write down or say it out loud. 10. Is it worth it? - Cost per wear, how many hours to pay for it.

[@francarroll310]

# 6💪🏻👍🏻

[@sarahthatcher123]

A quote I really like is from 'The Minimalists'...it is something like this..." I AM ENOUGH IN AN EMPTY ROOM'. I find when I apply this to clothes and accessories I say to myself..."I AM ENOUGH WITHOUT CLOTHES/ACCESSORIES/MAKE-UP". I found I was buying and buying to try to feel 'good enough' about my physical 'beauty'/body. Buying a 'pretty' item made me feel 'pretty ' or 'beautiful' temporarily but the feeling doesn't last so I would have to keep buying another 'pretty' item. I am still learning to address my core issues of feeling so 'unworthy' and 'inadequate' and 'not good enough'. This is the issue that corporations know so many of us have/experience/believe about ourselves. I feel good that I am no longer ignorant of their schemes and marketing ploys that exploit those feelings. I am enough without all the 'stuff'.

[@Christinamychas]

Sarah Thatcher YES WE ARE! I love this too. Youtber matt d’avella who filmed that documentary offers amazing video podcasts and inspo talking more on these subjects. So good! We are enough.

[@shearapp7335]

This hit SO close to home, "am I going to feel gross after I buy this" especially. Love this vid very helpful to hear someone else's similar challenge. Very inspiring.

[@Christinamychas]

Shealyn Rapp I’m so glad it resonated - you’ve got this! Xo

[@rebeccajones9757]

Lack of mental stimulation definitely leads to shopping.

[@Christinamychas]

Rebecca Jones totally

[@melligolightly]

Definitely. Since I have real hobbies and goals I have other things that make me happy than just my appearance or possessing stuff. Also helps me with the obsessing part someone described here in the comments. Certainly not where I want to be but making progress. Your videos and the comment section help me so much on my journey.

[@rebeccajones9757]

Sometimes I spend money on my hobbies though. Art supplies add up. I am trying to use what I have before I buy new stuff and to be resourceful though.

[@KKOhNoYouDidnt]

For me, "KZbin made me but it". I would watch favorites videos and click on their links to purchase. Now Im so happy I found channels like yours to help me stop this impulsive behavior. Thanks Christina!

[@Christinamychas]

KKO thank you! Omg KZbin made me buy SO MUCH ugh 😑

[@gladystoukie]

Excellent video as always!!! One thing I have learned as an older woman is that women are much too hard on themselves!! Value yourself as the unique and wonderful person you are and if people do not appreciate or value you let them go!! I read a comment that I think is so important in the materialistic narcissistic age we live in, Do not compare and do not compete, each of us has our unique contribution to make😊

[@Christinamychas]

Cathy G. This is the truest truth!

[@riar.s.2615]

For me, skincare is my addiction. This year, I start the low buy project by listing all skincare I have (include minis and samples). Every time I wanna buy something (mostly because it's on sale) I check the spreadsheet and told myself "I have enough" few times. It works! The number of any category in my skincare is starting low. My goal is just to have one item in each category without having backups because I realized that I tend to get bored even with one item that I already love so much.

[@Christinamychas]

Ria R. S. That spreadsheet idea is NEXT LEVEL! I love it. I also get bored with current products or clothing so really have to pause when I catch myself looking for something new, esp when I am halfway through a bottle of something already

[@riar.s.2615]

@@Christinamychas yeah, by looking the spreadsheet, not only having a collective number in each category, but also you'll realize that you have more than enough items for a year supplies before they hit the expired dates (related to skincare). I did the same thing to makeup and body care products but my main problem is skincare. Type every single item that you have will make you "a little bit" busy 😉

[@sharrongray1837]

Hi there I'm 51and have only just started getting into makeup 💄 and skincare products and I just can't stop started watching makeup vloggs and now I just can't stop worst thing is I don't even wear makeup 💄 I use skincare but not make up n yet I still keep buying and I'm in so so much debt now ☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️❤️

[@MIOLAZARUS]

I really appreciate this online-community of people who love beautiful things but have a hard time controlling buying stuff. It's so nice to know other people who struggle with the same problem, and it gives me strength to see other people growing so much, and i feel like i can do the same :)

[@capturedbyannamarie]

I started making a list everytime I want an item, and slowly getting each item. Sometimes I remove things from the list, because I no longer want them. It helps me to think about things a lot before hand. It has helped me a lot. Also I can see if I already bought an item on the list, then I am not allowed to buy something similar. It is a satisfying thing to add something to a list and then to cross off the item that you needed/wanted vs buying impulsively

[@perfumaphilia3246]

This is such a useful tool, not to mention list-making is fun! I have my own well thought out list that I modify as needed. It really helps maintain perspective and prevents many impulse buys. I've only recently internalized the idea that I can appreciate beautiful things without buying them. There is an unlimited number of beautiful things out there, we can't/don't need to own them all, and they don't all suit us or serve our needs anyway.

[@capturedbyannamarie]

Perfumaphilia thanks! It for sure is. I have found it a lot of fun to actually take a lot of time deciding on things, and to find the perfect thing before buying.

[@Christinamychas]

I love lists! So satisfying to check things off of them - in this case, maybe something we didn’t buy xo

[@JJJettplane]

Very helpful! Everyone wants to feel good and fill a void or need. The issue with clothing, and other material possessions, is that they only help us feel good temporarily. That's why we always need something else again. I have a problem with obsessing about something, until it eventually makes me pull the trigger. I'm trying to avert my attention to other things when my obsessive thinking over an item creeps in. Boredom is a big one, and staying too long on the computer is a bad one for me.

[@Christinamychas]

J James I am very similar in getting “stuck” on an item until I buy it. That’s one that will take more reflection and thought. We are being mindful and stopping to think and evaluate the situation - that is huge progress 🥰

[@dom.sachova7619]

You bring this topic on so nicely. Feelings of shame, hiding stuffs so other people don't have idea but the worst part of it sacrifizing all the great experiences with loved ones. Doesn't worth it. Thank you girl!

[@Christinamychas]

Dom. sachova thank you!

[@TanzaniteHayley]

I fell off the band wagon again this month, I bought a whole bunch of clothes.. but it wasn’t impulse - I’d think about it for a few days or week and I’ve not returned anything, I’ve been wearing and loving it all... sigh. Bought it all in cash though and all bills are paid, not in my overdraft and still put money into savings this month.. I still feel naughty though!!

[@Christinamychas]

Hayley Lisa it’s ok to fall off! We all do! Xo

[@lindaree1987]

When you've shopped this way (responsibly)... you don't have to feel naughty. You deserve to be able to treat yourself from time to time without the stigma of "being bad"...

[@sherryedwards695]

Great video. 2 items I learnt from y-tube is: is this item going to add "value " to my life and how??? Also, you're not allowed to buy anything new. You can only buy a replacement. No new shampoo until the other one is used up. In your case no new lipstick until you've used up the others. In my case, no new anything. Every month I try a no-buy approach but always end up buying something. No, it's not from boredom or any other reason I just feel I need something new or better than the one I already have. I'm still a work in progress.

[@Christinamychas]

Sherry Edwards I am the same; but we are all thinking a little more and being mindful. That’s the difference for me. I love your rules!

[@lfkilcran]

The struggle is real! It has been an ongoing battle for me since 2016 when I realized I had a problem. I went to therapist, but I did not get the sense that the issue was taken seriously. I am retired. I saved money all my life. I have large investments. Marrying late for the first time to a man who was doing the same....no children and a comfortable life. I did learn at the therapists that my change in spending behavior escalated between 2011-2013: My father died,I lost my dearest friends to cancer..the same ones that shared an excitement for fashion, I nearly lost my own life to a misdiagnosed disease. It was caught just in time. It was in 2016...after a few years living off a partial income and waiting to hit the age of retirement ...I was overshopping. My credit card balance escalated. I learned that I enjoyed the IG community b/c these were friends that fun...but at a distance...and wonderful connections have been made there. However, I am triggered to spend. I realize I could pay off my credit card within a year IF I STOPPED SHOPPING. It is the only debt I have and I have a good monthly income with zero overhead to maintain. My husband takes care of our travel and all other expenses. I WANT TO BE ABLE TO CONTROL THIS and in earlier years, I had no issue with it. I have kept journals, practiced the POWER PAUSE, kept records, waited for months for items...but I am still not paying down the balance of my CC because I am still shopping. I like the low buy idea and trying to plan a budget. It is a slippery slope. I RATIONALIZE my purchases and then that leads me to a SPLURGE. I obsess over that special THING ...you referred to that. I have read several books on this issue, Shopping Brake and To Buy or Not to Buy...but they only keep it under control for a short period of time, but eventually I go back into the habit. I feel like a total failure, but I refuse to give up. Your channel is helping me get back on track. I am also watching a You Tube video, THE WILLPOWER INSTINCT by Kelly McGonigal and have ordered that book as well •

[@Christinamychas]

You are NOT a failure. Every step and thought on something you want to change or improve is a step in the direction you were meant to go in. We don’t have to be perfect in shopping or not shopping. That’s not realistic and creates shame and guilt that is equally as destructive as over shopping or over spending. You are on your way and I can feel you want to make positive change. You can do this. I am with you in the same struggle, as are so many of us here. We are all enough. Xo

[@carolbohn5900]

For such a young person, you have a great sense of personal insight! I commend your introspective journey to delve into your shopping problem. I am 65 and have been struggling too with excessive shopping especially since my separation. I think you hit the nail on the head regarding boredom. I would take it a step further and say shopping is entertainment for me. I love fashion, I love looking at everything and imagining how a new item will fit into my wardrobe, and I love talking to the clerks about clothing. For someone who doesn't work anymore, go to many dressy events or travel regularly, I have a large wardrobe! Many items I buy are too dressy for my lifestyle. So that would be my additional question. Does this fit into my existing lifestyle, not my fantasy lifestyle?

[@polinaracheeva9163]

"Does it fit my actual lifestyle" is a great question to ask. That's how I restrained myself from buying dresses because where I live is very cold and I use mostly sporty clothes to go to work by bike.

[@clairehewitt3381]

This really rang a bell with me! I'm always filling my time with shopping/browsing/thinking about what to buy. But also feel like I'm being overwhelmed by too many clothes and cosmetics.... I really need to deal with this and this is a very helpful video, thank you

[@Christinamychas]

CLAIRE HEWITT you can do it Claire! Xo

[@juliachapman1053]

Fabulous video! So many things resonated with me. You are definitely not alone with shopping out of boredom! I’m coming towards the end of my no spend month and I can’t agree more with everything you said. I would say that these questions do become a habit so, with practise, I think it does get easier, and I’ve also found that the “high” I get from decluttering actually lasts much longer than that initial rush from buying yet another item you don’t need (especially black boots, too! 😁). Thanks so much.

[@Christinamychas]

Julia Chapman that declutter high is so good! Thank you Julia!

[@veroe67]

Thank you! I was once told that shopping too much was to fill up an emptiness. I always took it as unhappiness, it never occurred to me about boredom! that has been me many times! 😘

[@Christinamychas]

Vero E. Cissell I’m so glad it helped!

[@francarroll310]

This is all so true! I try to always remember that when we go to Heaven with God, we don’t take anything materialistic with us! The longer more permanent goals are so much more important. We can use shopping exactly as you mentioned; it is to fill a void( loneliness, anger, fear)Better to spend time in prayer, meditation, journaling to have clarity on the deeper issues.🙏🏼❤️😇

[@CapMIam]

Thank you for following up on your low buy rules. You are on point with the emotional / psychological triggers that steer us towards instant gratification, FOMO and keeping up with the facade. I found decluttering, setting a budget, a mobile app like EveryDollar to track spending, and the 4 wk rule (needs to stay on the wish list for that period) helps. If the item is sold out by the time that 4 wks has passed, then it wasn’t meant to be. Most times, I forget that it is actually on the list or scratch it off entirely when I have a ‘what was I thinking ?’ moment. I actually use KOHO, a reloadable credit card that requires you to transfer funds onto it before you can make a purchase, and the transfer is not instantaneous. I rarely carry my credit cards, nor do I have that information stored on PayPal or any mobile or retail shop profile. This added preventative measure stops the impulse buying. Also adopting a ‘dupe that’ mentality by shopping your own stash to emulate the look is rewarding. Your honesty is commendable, and please know that you are not alone in this journey.

[@Christinamychas]

Cap MIam that app sounds so good! And the budget has honesty helped the most xo

[@stephfromearth]

This was one of those moments that YT recommended a video to me for no other reason than that I really needed to hear it. I found this very thought provoking. And on a subject that I would otherwise be mentally avoiding. Thank you for starting the inner dialogue I needed. Subscribed :)

[@Christinamychas]

Stephanie M thank you so much Stephanie - I’m so glad it struck a chord - you’ve got this!

[@attyjosh]

This video literally saved me today from spending 2 thousand dollars for something I absolutely don't need. Thank you thank you thank you. Such a savior!

[@msneelyoc]

I just cleared out my Target shopping cart while watching this. THANK YOU for continuing to make these videos. It's important. I get better and better every year with this, but it's still a challenge. Just bought a sun shirt that I need for upcoming Mexico and Aruba trips. I know this from the past because I get chronically sun burned and chronic heat stroke. That I need. I don't need 57 tank tops and bralettes. Just stop.

[@claudiaq5187]

Thank you for being so honest ❤️ I can definitely relate. I found out I had endometriosis 3 years ago and I was bed bound for the majority of that time. I lost friends and I had nothing much to do, so I started shopping online every week out of boredom and as a way to cheer myself up. The thing is that it just increased my anxiety. Even though I now have a stellar wardrobe, I don’t think it was worth it. I would rather have close friendships and my health back. Thanks so much for this video. You’re awesome 😎

[@gracetorres6110]

Love your content! I can relate to all of it. I’m really working on myself and this really helps, thank you so much.😊

[@rileylauren5490]

you’re so inspirational and these videos are exactly what i needed to motivate me to start my money saving journey rn. thank you!

[@joannesalem7415]

WoW!!! It’s soooo great that your doing that! I’ve started this journey 2 years ago when I realized like u that I had a serious shopping problem. I didn’t stop shopping completely back then but I aloud myself only one item per month (u can see my Instagram @jospicks ). That was HUGE for me, because I used to buy new things almost every day!!! After that year, I have to admit, the urge of shopping is almost gone. I also watch 2 documentaries that really helped me keep that no shopping going (u can find them on Netflix) : The Minimalist and The True Cost. Thank u for sharing ur story with us ❤️ and keep up the good work 😊

[@michelleachacoso4983]

You really dig deep with your questions! Thank you!

[@michelleogorman9966]

Personally I feel happy when I find an awesome item thrifting so have found it without spending much and its practically brand new and people don't realise it is thrifted etc

[@Christinamychas]

Jason & Michelle O'Gorman I agree! Thrifting can be a blast when you find something good

[@rigleiaknapp3227]

My problem exactly!

[@polinaracheeva9163]

The problem is that you get carried away by attractive prices

[@rigleiaknapp3227]

You are amazing! Thank you for presenting all the tips!

[@TimbleM]

Such an awesome video. It hit me! We all go through the same questions in our head. Thank you so much!!! This will definitely help me while I’m out on my lunch break mindlessly wanting to buy clothes out of boredom.

[@xcessa]

I've been bingeing all your low-buy videos today and I absolutely love them. Your struggles really speak to me and I think many of us have (had!) the same negative behaviour patterns conditioned into us by our consumerist society. Thank you so much for this inspiration!

[@ranginabasit4867]

Thank you for taking your precious time to help all of us women ! I been watching minimalism videos all day because I thought that’s the route I should take since I had a problem shopping but I’m so so happy I ran into your videos .. this is the happy medium I was searching for and honestly never heard any of this advice ever! Thank you thank you!! Please update ya with your journey!

[@LiusiaUA]

Thank you for being so brave to look the truth in the eyes and sharing it with us. We all recognize ourselves here! Thank you for honesty and helping us face our own fears.

[@katriv582]

Thank you for this great video, this is exactly what I’m starting to go through at the moment.

[@perfumaphilia3246]

I'm new to your channel, but already know you have amazing content. I've struggled with impulsive and compulsive shopping behaviors for several years. They come and go, but they're generally at their worst when I'm particularly anxious and/or depressed. Or I find that when I genuinely need to expand my wardrobe and buy new items for work or an event, I'll end up obsessing about clothing and feel the intense need to purchase everything all at once (often resulting in silly purchases and spending more money than I can afford). My obsession and preoccupation with scouring the internet for clothing and buying new things has recently begun interfering with my basic functioning, like eating and sleeping. This video is like mini mental rehab. Something that has helped me a lot is watching minimalist vloggers who inspire me. I'm really enjoying A Small Wardrobe's channel. Also, watching beauty gurus decluttering their massive makeup collections is a valuable reminder that so much of what we buy just sits on a shelf or in a closet, slowly expiring or not being used. Wastefulness and clutter upsets me more than not having another eyeshadow palette, a particular pair of shoes, a super trendy dress, or anything else I know I won't get much use out of. I want everything I own to be loved and utilized regularly, so I've slowly learned how to be more honest with myself about what I actually need. Some of this knowledge does come with age, life experience, and figuring out who you are.

[@Christinamychas]

Perfumaphilia oh my gosh thank you SO much for sharing this ❤️ I am floored by your openness and honesty - you are doing great work for yourself, within yourself. You’ve inspired me right back. You can do this!

[@annettedoodles]

Thank you so much for these low buy videos 💕 i feel like i have finally reached rock bottom this year after spending so much of my hard earned money all on clothes. My closets are oveeflowing and i dont have enough room and my reasoning for shopping is exactly like you!!!! It is definitely an addiction of finding/chasing thrill that never ends because of the short lived adrenaline. I have never heard another person say the exact feelings i am going thru. I will.be having a low buy year starting yesterday. THANK YOU SO MUCH

[@rachaelenglish348]

Thank you thank you thank you for making me realise I need to do this!

[@katarzynapiec9813]

One of the best posts on shopping I've come across! We shop most of the time to cover up a void we carry in us, out of mental emptiness. Noticing that is a great achievement. Thank you 🌻

[@bearlycountry2406]

Thank you for being so candid. I’m REALLY struggling with a low buy right now. My husband and I are on baby step 2 of Dave Ramsey. I’ve definitely curbed my spending habits but I’m not gazelle intense. Your videos are so motivating. They’re really helping me, thanks again!!

[@ADea-hp3uz]

Binge watching your videos. I love your content. 🤗 Thank you for sharing these questions. By asking myself these questions it makes me mindful about spending my money. It such a powerful thing to have the control of your spendings. I'm about to start a no spend month / low buy month to begin with.

[@juliakallis4392]

This resonates with me so much! I've decided to do a low buy year for 2021 and your videos are so helpful. Thank you!!!!

[@Christinamychas]

You got this!

[@lindsayoung3]

Wow I stumbled on this video when I needed it most. I love how honest you were with your questions and that "gross" feeling I think many can relate to but I've never put words to. Thank you for posting this, seriously

[@Christinamychas]

I’m so glad it helped, Lindsay! ❤️❤️

[@pennyb9445]

I agree with you. I was returning something I bought online yesterday and I asked myself as I walked around the mall, do I need this? I realize I have so many things that if I buy something, it will only be a duplicate. I bought 2 things. A raincoat and a slip dress. I didn't have either item in my closet so that I'm ok with. Also, online shopping gets me. I now avoid styling videos that have links to buy. It is too easy to pick up something I don't need and doesn't fit my lifestyle. Edith Head had this advice. Pull everything out of your closet and put it into categories. The pile you wear the most represents the clothes you need the most. Thank you for the inspiration and honesty.

[@Christinamychas]

Penny B I LOVE that! I am def the type to have 10 of the same T-shirt but only wear one of them. Amazing tip. And I’m glad about how your shipping trip went!

[@ACrase9]

Wow, it’s so good to know I am not alone in this. I really like your videos! It helps me focus on what I need to do to stop this buying. Love your honesty! Keep them coming. Please.

[@Christinamychas]

ACrase9 thank you so much! We’re in this together!

[@tammyko7171]

First video I’m watching from you, this is great information. Subbing. Thank you!

[@sungpark1834]

Wow, this video is fantastic and I def. relate to it. One thing that really helps me stop shopping is thinking about the other stuff I could buy with the money, for instance saving up for vacation. Another thing I constantly think about is life, in a few years I will remember the memories in my life, not the materialistic items. This video was perfect and made me think more about my shopping!

[@michelineleblanc9595]

This is like a déjà vu. My true colors. U r a true inspiration to people like myself. I enjoy watching your videos and will now subscribe to your channel. Thanks for putting yourself out there as I appreciate your honesty and furthermore admitting how difficult it is to get out of it. I'm also putting more thought into items I want to buy, do I want it, do I need it, can I live without it. Truly questions we need to reflect on. A good practice to getting out of shopping needlessly. Hope you're channel keeps growing and that u inspire loads of people out there. And at the same time we r helping our planet. 💞 Congrats to u...

[@Christinamychas]

Micheline Leblanc thank you so much Micheline! 😭😭❤️

[@alyx4458]

You're honestly one of my new fave creators on here. Really love your approach to your content! Xx

[@Christinamychas]

Alyx Carolus omg thank you SO much 😭😭

[@ewapj2935]

Realy great content! How to feed yourself long term, this is the question... I've come across your channel just recentely and feel this is a good place 👍 I will stick around. Love from Poland

[@Doomsday76767]

You've listed your reasons as lust, greed, envy, coveting things, vanity, emptiness, lonliness, and creating the illusion of wealth without having wealth, boredom, stress and habit/addiction to the rush, validation. I've never noticed it till you pointed it out, this is why most, myself included buy junk we don't need. You ask some great questions that make me think about my own money spending. Great video. Thanks.

[@roseknaus4069]

Excellent video. Trying to recover from my shopping addiction. Not easy. Nice to have this video to know I’m not alone and learn some strategies to change my ways. Thank you!

[@melligolightly]

I needed to pause the video because I wanted to fully focus on it and then on the comments. Normally I do it simultaneously (not very mindful, I know...), but the value of both your content and the comments here is so high!

[@Christinamychas]

Melli Golightly haha I am a watcher and a comment-reader-er too! Thank you !☺️

[@DomaHomeZina]

I have just discovered your YT and have been binging on it! Great advice and aesthetic and content and quality and and and!!! Anyway just letting you know its very very good! Also, one of the things I discovered on my minimalist journey is the shedding aspect of stuff, relationships, divorce, bad jobs, bad coworkers or friends who don’t add value, shedding weight if one is overweight....those are all necessary and on the journey to simple happiness! Sometimes those propel the closet shedding. The root cause of using stuff and shopping to quell the boredom or unhappiness can be found deeper if you analyze your circle, your health, etc. my shedding of my closet was the last thing on my journey.... all those other things actually happened first and when i finally reached for my phone to scroll on zara and order a bazillion things as i usually did. I actually got so annoyed i deleted the app. And now i literally shop if i have a need to replace running sneakers or sell a chanel bag thats fairly new but brings me no joy and hunt for some rare unicorn vintage bag on ebay and never actually find it but the hunt of it is so enjoyable and not finding it is actually secretly nice too bc my few minutes of mindlessness can be spent on the hunt of that rare vintage outlier!

[@bhavinimaneklal2895]

Love this video . Just the video I needed to see today .

[@Christinamychas]

Bhavini Maneklal 🤗🥰🥰

[@LikeMyWeryOnBlood]

Thanks for the list, I will write them in my notebook as a reminder. keep up the good work😃👌🏼

[@Christinamychas]

Natalie yay! Thank you Natalie!

[@yvonnehyman1683]

Great timing for this video. Thanks!

[@Christinamychas]

Yvonne Hyman thank you! ❤️

[@dirtydiary5564]

Ive been trying to find something i can do to stop shopping literally will hide what i buy from my bf and i will feel bad when i buy things it stressed me out and i like it the shirt when i looked at it when i bought it i was like why! Im.just glad i seen this now i can work on myself. ❤

[@Christinamychas]

alicia solla you’ve got this Alicia! ❤️

[@iliyananikolova3882]

I`m so glad for you that it was given you to realize that you have a problem and good for you that you`ve started to do something about it. That is why we take weaknesses- to overcome them. Thank you for the video- great content and very helpful. God bless you! :)

[@AnnieL001]

Thanks for the tips and some of the reminders we should all bear in mind.:) I have hobbies but I also have a busy job and the way I unwind in addition to my hobbies is to sit on the sofa and watch youtube or browse online shopping channels. I do always have something on my mind and now that I am on low buy I try to be concious about the shopping online. If I really need a pair of shoes that’s ok or if I see a dress I have been looking for a long time, then I can buy it but otherwise I try now to buy too many things I already have. And happens now is that I still order some items but I return them because when I finally get them I realise I dont need them or they are not worth it and in turn I am buying much less. I am almost like in between this process. One thing that is hard to avoid are the new season styles because even if on low buy I think it is nice to have one or two new season pieces. As for skincare, I am stuck in a rut because I have acne rosacea and I have really trying to take care of it. I am also in my 40s now and just heard vitamin C serum is good for acne rosacea and great for anti aging so I did order it. For makeup I buy less cosmetics and only refills and have been doing really well with my existing makeup storage. In fact looking forward to busting out my corally pinks and red lipsticks soon, perfect for spring. So for my low buy I am doing ok but since I have not been able to get rid of the online shopping habits completely, I have not completely succeeded but good news is I am buying much less. I will try to do better in the future, but have you got any tips for shopping seasonal pieces? If you want to get one or two trendier pieces let’s say the white dress or lovely florally midi dress that is in style for the spring or that blouse with a bit more volume? I have not found them yet if fact I ended up returning a loads of dresses because none of them was really what I looked for...but if I do find these pieces I will have hard time not to buy them...

[@megm.5174]

Thank you for sharing this. I love these questions and they have seriously helped open my eyes. Quite a few years ago, as part of a "I want to be happier in my life". I made myself a promise and try my best to stick to it. it's a simple rule i call Make good choices. As in when i am faced with a choice i choose the things that make me feel good about myself, not like a superficial dopamine hit kind of good but like a energizes my soul sort of good. Like i'm honouring the person I want to be. I fall off the wagon all the time but it reminds me why i have the rule in the first place and change is a process not an event. My life has gotten infinitely better because of it. Now to tackle the shopping addiction. Buying stuff that makes me feel gross and embarassed and regretful... definitely not a good choice. Thank you for this toolkit. My journal is imploding with your ideas and your questions are now a list front and center on my phone.

[@Christinamychas]

Meg M. That is AMAZING, Meg! I’m so glad it helped. You sound like you’re ready to really honour that person you want to be. Me too. We’ve got this!

[@adventureofanne1561]

I’m so happy I found you’re channel i’m a shopacholic too but in my country it doesn’t get much recognition yet.

[@lalucyinthesky1]

Wow, so honest! Love 👏🏻

[@Christinamychas]

Lucia Abuin thank you 🥰

[@amberrhea5293]

I shop because I'm sad. Just went through a breakup, so I guess my rationale has been "at least I'll look good if I run into him." It's a temporary high when the packages arrive.

[@KimFirsttimemom]

Amber Rhea big hug for you 🙏

[@amberrhea5293]

Thank you.

[@Christinamychas]

Xox hugs to you, amber. You’ll look good if you run into him regardless of any new stuff or not. Take some time to work on you. You’ve got this. Xo

[@amberrhea5293]

Thank you so much.

[@NonStopParis]

This was useful. I want to do a ‘low buy’ year, but I just moved so am trying to balance those purchases that I ‘need’ for my new home. It’s been more of a challenge than expected!

[@thebabyginabottle]

I just downloaded your VDO so that I could listen to it everyday to remind myself to stop shopping. The boredom from COVID is making my shopping gone over the roof.

[@AnokinaShahbaz]

Love your videos Christina! Would love to hear how you came up with your channel name and the inspiration behind it.

[@pianno55]

Dear @Christinamychas I have a problem with overspending and for the last couple of months my shopping addiction really got out of control. In attempt to help myself, I stumbled across your channel and I resonate with and recognose myself in almost everything you say so, thank you, I think your videos will be of great help to me. I know it is going to be very hard because... well, I just caught myself multiple times thinking about how great your lipstick shade and your necklaces are and how I also need sth like that 😂 And that is how deep my problem is..🙈🙈 Anyway, just wanted to say thank you for your effort and honest sharing ❤

[@ivajekova7747]

I absolutely appreciate your videos, they are inspiring! I think for me this no/low buy concept could work if I watch this video every single morning for months...🤔👀 Thank you!

[@Christinamychas]

Iva Jekova haha thank you so much Iva - you can do it! Xoxo

[@GiftSparks]

PREACH!! You can’t fill an inside void with outside things. I’ve taken to selling my things on eBay. Virtually every item i am selling made me very happy when I purchased it. And then, it didn’t. I’m finding that these sales are as fulfilling as when I first purchased the items.

[@ItsJustFashion]

Thank you for this video! I am on a path to not buy absolutely nothing regarding clothes for a full year!

[@nicolewilliams2468]

Great thoughts - thanks for sharing!

[@Christinamychas]

Nicole Williams thank you! ❤️

[@jessicatalpai925]

I feel like I have it so down with not buying beauty or hair products (as I go for a simple look). I have a small house so I cannot get random house hold items or decor. No biggie, I rather have an empty space on my counter or a plant for easy clean up. But my biggest struggle are shoes and clothes. I wish I could just spend 30-50 dollars on just one or 2 items, and not feel the need to spend 250 on clothes. I feel so awful for it. But these videos help. Please keep them coming.

[@Christinamychas]

Jessica Talpai i was definitely the same way. Just thoughts to make yourself hit “pause” before you buy really helps start a dialogue and decide what we really need/love vs what we don’t

[@jessicatalpai925]

Thanks 🙏🏼

[@kathyesargent9088]

You look so much more happy😀let those emotions go. I shop out od boredom. I’m shopping vintage but still find brand new idems, please keep going and help me stop shopping. I don’t need more clothes, purses, shoes etc. No I don’t need clothes.

[@Christinamychas]

Kathye Sargent awe thank you! I am happier I think - it’s all a process and honestly a daily struggle, especially with impulsivity. Thank you for your lovely comment!

[@LTNZ1]

So true ❤️

[@marielsacco7267]

This video has resonated SO MUCH with me! An imminent move brought me to realise just how much stuff I have accumulated over the years (I'm downsizing so I can't take everything) and it has also made me realise what a problem with shopping I have. All of these questions are so useful and I need to have them in front of me and in my head all the time right now! As i declutter for the move, the stress which the whole shift brings about, is at times leading me astray onto shopping apps etc which if I succumb to would just add to the problem and stress etc etc ... a vicious circle if there ever was one! Thank you so much for sharing this

[@Christinamychas]

Mariel Sacco it’s very true! Downsizing and decluttering helps out what we have or forgot we had into perspective. I think it’s enlightening and makes us feel lighter. Xo

[@marielsacco7267]

@@Christinamychas indeed!!! It's making me look at fashion and styling from a completely new perspective, also indirectly leading me to exploring more sustainable ways of shopping too ... landing on your low-buy series at this juncture in my life was such a lucky coincidence!

[@LYRC11]

My difficulty is thinking about the sunk cost for all the things I've purchased in the past that I've since gotten rid of or are currently in the process of getting rid of. So I try and remind myself of that feeling when I'm considering bringing something new into my space.

[@kollapsoidal]

Totally off topic but I LOVE YOUR HAIR SO MUCH. It’s so shiny and you always style it beautifully. About the video, once again I found it useful and I thank you for sharing this with us. I’m failing a bit at my no/low buy year. I’ve changed my habits - and for that I am proud because I hardly bought any fast fashion, I only buy 2nd hand or some really specific purpose new pieces but from a higher quality brand (i.e. I was needing a new handbag and a backpack and I bought them new but on the Allsaints sale, did the same on YOOX for shoes for a wedding and sunglasses). The upside is that I’m becoming better at buying pieces with more longevity, both in terms of quality (I buy a lot of high quality/designer brands on Vestiaire that I couldn’t afford new) and in terms of style (pieces that can be reworn over and over and that I won’t grow tired of in a few months) but other than that I’m sucking a lot at saving money ☹️

[@Christinamychas]

Catarina Félix it’s all a process! It took steps and time to get to where you are about your purchases. No need to feel guilty about saving. It’s all baby steps! Dave Ramsey is helping with my relationship with money; I high recommend! Xo thank you about my hair!! Haha 😂 🥰

[@jennyturcotte2371]

I remember Dave Ramsey mentionned a good question to ask yourself before buying and it helped me a lot. He said to ask yourself if the thing i want to buy is to be seen or admire by others. If yes, dont buy it :)

[@pameehanson1764]

I put items on a wish list (of sorts) and then just leave it there. I don't give myself a date or time just keep reviewing the list, try not to analyze it but I find this makes me stop and think why is it on this list and I slowly mark out items. For me just put on list and wait by the time I have really thought about it I already have something close to it or I really don't need it. This has been my # 1 thing to do that worked for me. It seems to simple but long complicated rules didn't work for me put it on a list and wait😯 I could talk myself out of it.

[@Christinamychas]

Pamala Hanson simple is often best! I love it!

[@lizziebkennedy7505]

This is completely contrary to the spirit of this channel but I cannot stop thinking about that crescent moon necklace. It is so special. I have thought about it much longer than 24 hours 😙

[@Christinamychas]

It’s from Ana Luisa! 🥰

[@harmony3395]

Love your content and I am getting in track now. Really surprised that I don’t miss mindless shopping! This is great, but I found it very repetitive ....

[@et4182]

Can you make an updated video on this??!! Maybe any new questions you can think of!!

[@Christinamychas]

Good idea! Can do!

[@tinas1642]

Thanks for a great and helpful video on this topic! I agree with everything you said! I appreciate the insight and honesty that you add to this video that comes from your personal experience. I think this is what makes your advice effective! Like you, I am also *doing my best* to shop less and be more mindful of my spending... clothing is also my weakness! I’m not a blogger or anything. I just really love clothes! I will say I have gotten way better over time. I now stick to buying neutral colours and buying less. My question is (perhaps this could be a future video...) what do you do when you feel like *buying* something new or different?! When you’ve been so good but the urge to shop is there? How do you remind yourself DAILY of your goals and motivate yourself DAILY? I find consistency is hard sometimes especially at the start!

[@tinas1642]

Bad habits die hard as they say! How do you turn buying less into a habit?

[@Christinamychas]

This is an amazing question! I will def talk about it in a future video for sure. I have to think about it myself. It’s more being mindful and catching those feelings and why I’m suddenly triggers to shop that has helped me the most

[@itoshiibaka8267]

I love your idea of thinking long term when it comes to shopping. So many things really are instant gratification. What will this purchase mean a year from now?

[@janelles5444]

I love this series. I'm struggling right now with buying a new face highlight for my makeup, though. If I'm asking myself the questions you've asked--no, I don't need it, it really won't add a ton of value to my life, it's in the budget as it's literally the only makeup item I've considered purchasing this month, etc. But, I have a fairly minimal makeup collection and wear makeup daily for my professional job. The one highlighter I have has major pan and will need to be replaced soon (after using it completely up of course). I can use a promo code for the new one to get 20% off, but that's still 23 dollars and I, of course, haven't hit the minimum free shipping requirement. Those are the moments a low-buy is hard for me. Do I need it, no. Will I run out soon and will desire to repurchase eventually? Yes. Boo!

[@Christinamychas]

Janelle S I wouldn’t feel too guilty about replacing that highlight when you’re ready to. It seems like you’re really thinking about the purchase before you make it. This seems healthy to me, vs something like my old behaviour of seeking highlight after highlight despite having 10 of them all half used already. There’s a difference, if that makes sense? Xx love!

[@EvelynInColor]

I can tell I'm going to watch this video multiple times. Thank you for your channel. I know I have a problem when I watch this video and I'm hearing you but I'm also wondering if there is a link in the description box to the lipstick and jewelry you're wearing. 🤔🤔🤔

[@jennyturcotte2371]

Love your hair 🤩 What products are you using? It looks AVEEDA-ish?

[@bcbvjvd]

Great content!

[@Christinamychas]

Carina Rosenqvist thank you Carina!

[@syrawalrus]

A deep loneliness drives my purchasing and it keeps me company. I think I need to make a plan for what I will fill the hole with otherwise!

[@oneilwepoely9904]

Nice one

[@HauteBabe]

I need an esthetic home and OMG... l need your necklace!!

[@dawnsuber5264]

Is it worth it? That makes me stop in my tracks! Thank you!!

[@KimFirsttimemom]

I relate so to your experiences! I shopped mostly because I didn’t feel good enough. Since I know this I keep it in mind when the hormones come up 😂

[@Christinamychas]

Declutter your life identifying patterns can be helpful! 😂🤗

[@sandrad7633]

My new mantra is create, not consume 🙏🏻🌸

[@Christinamychas]

I love it! Writing that down!

[@JTChi]

Retail therapy 😔 … sigh me too!

[@knitnkitten]

Maslow's Hierarchy of needs... check it out.

[@Christinamychas]

little.kitten wiki-ing!

[@beautifullullaby4166]

I made a list of staples for skincare etc. and cost of it next to it in a phone memo. So whenever I try to buy something and it isn't an item on my list that I need. I won't buy it. If I see a staple item half price or better and I know I will need it in future or now, I will get it because it will save money long term BUT I'll only keep one extra of that item on hand. So I'm not hoarding or building up a big collection. Example of a staple is my ceraVe moisturizer, I've almost finished my bottle so now I'm on a look out for specials. I'll often have items sitting in carts for months, if I really want to try a new skincare item then I will wait until my current item is nearly finished and I'll buy only the trial size of the new item just on case it doesn't work for me.