How to stop Impulse Buying, Emotional Spending & Retail Therapy (Family Minimalism 2019)

Call it what you'd like, retail therapy, impulse buying or emotional spending...it steals from our sense of contentment and CLUTTERS our house! Today, let's talk about simple way to put a stop to these unnecessary purchase so we can have peace of mind AND a peaceful home!!
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[@TheMinimalMom]

One thing I forgot to mention, it can be helpful to print a calendar and cross off each day that you're successful--- get the kids involved, too!! 💕 THANK YOU for watching...we greatly appreciate it!!!

[@heatherashley559]

Were you able to save the extra $500? :)

[@TheMinimalMom]

@@heatherashley559 Oh good question!! We came in around $400 :) :) :) Close enough!! ;)

[@neydimembreno6849]

Going shopping is very tempting for me. So what I’m recently doing is distracting myself with de cluttering my home or exercising, which are my lifelong goals . And I feel better every time. Not having the guilt of spending money. Definitely will try the 30 day no impulse spending 😊 challenge

[@spinnyjb1]

The Minimal Mom when you say spending freeze, how do you handle groceries and personal care/household cleaner type stuff? Or do you just mean a spending freeze on non-essentials?

[@gladysanderson1351]

@@TheMinimalMom definitely worth the $100 to take a plane rather than the road trip! And I bet the kids LOVED the flight experience!

[@BeccaGroves]

So I tend to justify fast food when the happiness window is closing and the kids are hangry. But I just started something new! When my car is hangry I run into Kwik Trip and buy a bundle of bananas. For $1.15, I get 6 bananas. Everyone gets a whole banana and I have just bought myself 30 minutes to get home and pull supper together. It changes everything! :)

[@Doors067]

Becca Ann you get 6 nanas for a buck... thats a crazy good deal

[@DD-xf1yd]

Congratulations on your clever solution!

[@kathryndipietro8974]

Really amazing idea! Especially since "quick food", such as fast food or coffee shop food or gas station mini mart food, gets expensive really quickly!

[@jasminsosa1032]

This is a good solution to use

[@katemiller7874]

Everyone get a whole banana. Wow. It is a great idea. It’s just the way you said it.

[@livingstrategically]

Reminds me of the quote, "Small leaks sink great ships." 🚢 Little purchases sure do add up. And if we are willing to patch those small leaks, we won't SINK our finances.

[@Ingrid0410]

Living Strategically I think the actual phrase is “loose lips sink ships” BTW

[@livingstrategically]

@@Ingrid0410 We must be referring to two different quotes. There is indeed a quote that says, "Small leaks sink great ships."

[@carolburnett8372]

@@livingstrategically yes, I think you are right.......loose lips idea does not benefit my weakness.....but the small leak does......so I agree with this one that helps me lots....."Small leaks sink great ships". I shall write that down and memorize and I will use it talking to myself.....I so needed that lesson tonight. Also, another one I remember is this one from a friend.....(Oh, I used to bring her many things from a thrift store on the .50 day.....). She said that I did not have to do this, I said, "But it is only .50. and she said, "It still is money" ......I did not see small purchases like this as money, lol. lol. But now I repeat it to myself and sometimes walk on, but,i still do buy those good buys, but not constantly..........thanks very muchLiving Strategically.....

[@SheriAnne0711]

I deleted my Facebook because of all the ads . My life has been richer because of it. I have been cooking more and listening to audible books while I am decluttering my home. My husband even noticed the other day that our home was getting cleaner.😊

[@sableann4255]

I am ready to do the same...I find it has a negative impact on my life as well. I've signed off many times. I really need to be done with it.

[@angelwings1]

I've left Facebook now, but I had my ads turned off x

[@novocaine09]

It's the best thing I have ever done for my mental health!

[@poolfield2]

What cured me of impulse buying was working a minimum wage job and thinking “how long do I have to work to pay for this item?” Is it worth that to me?

[@dayrich]

poolfield2 i think about that constantly especially since my husband works for all our money.

[@gladysanderson1351]

I have done this, even with a job that pays more. I forget about it in between but it is very helpful! Thanks!

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

That is a great way. "Am I willing to work 2 hrs for this?"

[@heatherframpton9693]

Yes, I've figured that way, too. Very eye opening and wallet closing! 😊

[@veronicaturnbull6240]

I did this too! When my son was little and asking for things he wanted versus needed, it was a huge teaching moment. Now he is in college and is constantly aware of how hard a person has to work to have the things they want. As a single mom, he is very aware of how real the struggle can be, and has grown into a much more respectful and conscientious human being.

[@lisahook7978]

I had a $500/month Starbucks habit. My friend pointed out that the machine to make it myself was approximately the cost on 1 month of Starbucks. I bought the machine and made a deal with myself that unless I am out of my town (too far from home to make it myself) that I couldn't go to Starbucks. After 2 months, not only do I not miss going (several times a day) but I enjoy the process of making my coffee every day and I like mine better than Starbucks! What started as a financial decision turned out to be something that has added to my life.

[@GameChanger597]

I could buy an $8 coffee twice a day at Starbucks and still not spend $500. What the hell are you buying?

[@NikkiSchumacherOfficial]

Way to go!! Good on you for such a great change.

[@NikkiSchumacherOfficial]

Story Cloud she's not buying anything. The point is she made a positive life change which is inspiring.

[@elouise4734]

Story Cloud $8 x 2 x 31 = $496/month

[@lisahook7978]

@@GameChanger597 $8 x 2= $16 (assuming you don't tip) x31 = $496. (I tip because I know how much they make. ) $8 (to a coffee drinker) doesnt seem like that much but it adds up FAST. And I dont know anyone that JUST gets coffee. With my bougie espresso maker (which I have had for almost 2 years now) I now spend $10 on beans and $16 on oat milk ($26 total) per month even though frequently I drink more coffee than I used to. Additionally, mone is better.

[@ginamiller6754]

A tip I use to stop online shopping is I make a “wish list” in my planner. Every item must stay on the list for at least 24 hours! Funny thing is after the impulse is over, I don’t buy as much! And!! I am really thankful that I DID NOT buy the item(s)!! One more list I have made is the “I thought I wanted, but didn’t buy “ list!! I get to pat myself on the back for the items I don’t buy! Sounds kind of funny, but these really work for me! Biggest benefit is instead of my bank account being almost empty at the end of the month, it’s quite healthy!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Yes! We've had a wait list in the past, too, it is a game changer!!! Thank you for sharing this!!! ❤️

[@bron3936]

I love this idea! Thanks!!

[@MandyGood]

Gina Miller I do the same!!

[@hollieiriksdottir]

I've been doing that too. If I have an impulse to buy something, I put it in my cart and come back to it a couple days later. Most of the time I dont end up buying it

[@lindag5076]

Gina Miller I have made a wish list sometimes, but I’m gonna follow this for a Month !

[@kelseyd4196]

I have to say that ever since I found your channel last year... I can't believe the domino effect that minimizing my home has had on the rest of my life and on my family! My son is keeping his things tidy, loading his dishes into the dishwasher, feeding our dogs and often making meals for everyone on his own free will! I watch my husband straighten the comforter on our bed if he walks by it, he goes through the junk mail right away, and he's even downsized his clothes! We have a vacation coming up and I'm so excited to pack a minimal suitcase for the first time ever! And last but not least---we're buying a home. We actually chose a simple, smaller adorable home and we're downsizing even more so that we only take what we really need and love! Daily clean up of our home takes literal minutes now!!! I timed it---I can casually unload my dishwasher in 2 minutes! Success!!!! My countertops are so clear and it just feels amazing! Dawn I can't thank you enough for the special way you share your minimizing ideas with us. Your channel was the first one that really made me feel that I could do this! Not wish to, but actually DO it! It has truly strengthened my family's bond! Keep on keepin' on, my friend!

[@simplesgood7694]

Kelsey D What a lovely success story!!! You made my day just reading such an uplifting comment. I’ve come a long ways in my simplicity journey as well and I have found that my whole family has been influenced for the better by my journey too. Congratulations on your success story!!!

[@DD-xf1yd]

What a great story! Thank you for sharing it with us!!!

[@emmawainwright5527]

Congratulations

[@MyFuntowatch]

I have been watching your videos and now everyone I meet I tell them about, "Dawn, the Minimal Mom" - I love your exuberance, clarity and can-do attitude too! Thanks for sharing these tips in an easy, honest and fun way!!

[@monicacronauer6866]

@@simplesgood7694 l

[@chelseagarchar4338]

I’ve noticed these things as well. Just going to the doctor today. I had a bag to drop off at the thrift store of donations, I was so tempted to go in and just have a look around. Then I told myself no!! I just dropped off a bag full of things. I don’t need anything at home. I’m good. I was so proud of myself!! 😊

[@TheMinimalMom]

Way to go!!! ❤️

[@ladylucas60]

oh how i can relate drop a bag take a peek inside end up with two bags to take home. Yikes

[@karennesbitt9655]

OMG! I am so guilty of of thrift shopping. You justify your spending because you are buying at a great price! But....you are still spending money. Had I not have gone in to the store, I would not have even' needed' what I purchased!

[@nikkikoz4720]

I grew up in a house where retail therapy was a way of life I'm slowly trying to change my mindset and one of the best ways for me to avoid mindlessly strolling the shopping aisles is to go take a hike on a trail instead

[@eileenlester3313]

Same here. It's contagious! When I moved from upstate New York down to Virginia to help my elderly mother I found out that she was still doing it, only this time with jewelry from online and TV. She finally realized that she was causing herself financial harm and stopped doing it. Having had financial difficulties ourselves, due to job loss for both of us, my husband and I rarely bought anything anymore. Now that we're able to start saving and get back on our feet again that type of therapy has stopped.

[@carolburnett8372]

yep, and also to find a hobby that is not too expensive......creativity satisfies the soul.

[@pl9046]

I grew up in a household like this too. I hope you are successful at doing the work to undo this toxic habit 🙏🏼

[@istyleyourstyle4562]

I understand except I also saw the regret when my mom would return all the shit 🤣🤣🤣 she would sometimes have me return it outta embarrassment 🤣🤦🏽‍♀️ but I won’t return I keep 😒 but I’m going to change, I can’t keep this up it’s unnecessary and draining as hell 🤣

[@janetcrane59]

I don't know anyone who can't benefit from this info. Thank you from a 60 yr. old who's downsizing.

[@lindag5076]

Janet Crane I’m 67 and also started recently. I look around to see what I haven’t used and put it in the donation box.

[@sarahryanthestylecoach]

It's great to hear of more people downsizing....I think we've been conditioned to consumer more and more and it's just so unnecessary! Well done!

[@Wedow12]

When I feel like impulse buying when buying other things I actually had on my list, and I REALLY have a strong urge to buy it, I think about my savings account. Right there and then, I ‘reward myself’ that I didn’t buy it, by going online and transfer the same amount of cash I would have spent on the impulse buy, from my checking account to my savings account. Really great to watch it grow!

[@beazerthesneeze]

That’s a great idea!

[@julieturner4168]

I was just having this convo with my husband about how our society is so "deserving" driven. "I deserve this because of this." Its spilled over to into consumerism and companies are great at telling us to buy this or that because we deserve it. It's easy to get trapped into believing that we deserve it so we need to spend money on and before you know it we have all this stuff.

[@lottie5038]

Your videos have changed my life! I am a 70 year old retired grandma of 6. I was an online shopper....big time. As a result I had a cluttered condo. Sooo I have been decluttering and now I am starting a spending freeze. Thank you so much!!!

[@susannaharget509]

Things that have helped me buy less: 1. Learning about the tremendous damage fast fashion is doing to the environment--I now buy way fewer clothes, and when I do buy, I try for the most eco-savvy fabrics. 2. It is projected that by 2050, there will be more trash than fish in the ocean. Our rampant over-consumption of consumer goods is killing our planet! I hope I'm not sounding preachy, but really, all other issues are moot if you don't have a planet to live on, so, I'm trying to NOT buy trendy things, single use/disposable things, things that don't last, non-biodegradable things whenever possible.

[@dedrabbit848]

Preach on

[@elisabethryder4719]

We definitely don't want to make the world of Wall-E a reality. It hurts so much for me to think about the problem because my sense of harmony is deviated because of all this waste while also feeling entirely helpless because of the tremendous size of this problem. I know doing what I can helps (namely just buying as few new clothes as possible), but I feel convinced it will never be enough but I can't do more. If that makes sense. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this.

[@tammyi363]

When I was picking my kindergarten grandson up from school during the week, we wanted to get a treat everyday. Well that didn’t last long because I didn’t think it was good. So we made a “Dutch Bros Tuesday” and that was the day we stopped and got coffee for me and hot cocoa (winter) or smoothie (summer) for him. He’s now 7 and we still enjoy our special day getting our treat. It also helped that he knew when it was going to happen so he didn’t ask to stop every day. Worked out great! And helped me to resist “just stopping for a coffee” every day also.

[@BeuTful]

6 and 8 years ago we did what we called "a year of necessities." We needed to pay off student loans and some debt so for those years we only purchased things we absolutely needed. It definitely made us aware of what we didn't need and appreciate the things we had. Also, after those years, our purchasing has been much more intentional.

[@betterlifebroadcasting7547]

I try to get into the habit of stopping for a second and trying to picture someone standing there in front of me. In one hand they have "the thing" and in the other hand they have the exact amount of money that thing would cost. Then I just ask myself, if this was real, which hand would you really choose? Now imagine people standing all over Target (or any other store) with money in one hand and some object in the other. It would be pretty easy to end up with $50 in that store!..or you know, in your bank account!

[@rebeccaoprea9917]

The things we need the most , we get the least of and the things we don’t need we get the most of .

[@deb664]

Loved this. I always noticed that when one is having to spend money on something that you don’t want but need, ie, a repaired washer, etc, you use the term “dollars”, when stating what it cost. But.... when it is something you want but don’t really need it’s just “bucks”. Vocabulary is soooo psychological!!

[@introvert22]

There are many temptations at stores. i have been learning to walk away and tell myself, "I can't own every cute thing." From mugs to journals to figurines. I have started to keep a list of things I do buy that doesn't fall into groceries and other consumables. I also use the library rather than buy books. Most of the time I'm on a long list to read the book but then it's a nice treat when the book arrives at my library.

[@allison_JR4E]

This reminds me of when I got rid of my tv and found myself doing things I never did before like taking a walk after work, coloring, reading, calling a friend. It was really eye opening to see how tv was sucking my time away and also my life in a way.

[@jennylhenry78]

Boy did I dodge a bullet in this area! A huge to praise to God for knowing I would have struggled big in this area, that He gave us several very lean years; as in we technically didn't even make enough to pay our bills, but He always provided for our means. During those years I just literally could not buy a single extra anything. It has made me question every single thing I put in my cart.

[@adriana.ostfriesland]

What’s all the hype with Starbucks? I’ve been there only a few times and every time I felt I was over paying for a beverage and the coffee is not that awesome.

[@WhatLauraLikes2018]

I gave up Starbucks after I found out they match donated to PP. It was hard at first bc it was that little treat, especially during the holidays, but like you say here, you start to find replacements at home that are one 1. way more economical and 2. are beautiful in their simplicity. I love a cup of coffee with unsweetened almond milk. I’m eating keto now so sugar is a thing of the past. That was hard too but again, you do get beyond it. We have these habits and when we break them, that’s the true freedom of the will. God bless! I love your channel. 😊

[@lorigregory7745]

What Laura Likes wow! Good for you!

[@tjandcj123]

What is PP?

[@jennagreiner1823]

@@tjandcj123 planned parenthood is my guess.

[@amandavia6671]

I've done several spending freezes & for different reasons, but one thing I have noticed that helped & may help others is, several of my favorite youtubers are always showing this that or the other that you cant live without, or the best foundation, or this revolutionary mascara... I had to just stop watching them for a week or so, so I wouldn't be tempted.

[@colleenjohnson5902]

I did a 3 month "contentment challenge" (spending freeze) four years ago, and it has changed my life and spending habits ever since. I used to be the person who thought she didn't spend much because the things I bought were usually fairly inexpensive. Meanwhile, I was acquiring collectibles, clothes, personal care products, books, hobby supplies, random items from thrift stores that were going to be projects, you name it! Cutting that off for 3 months really re-wired my brain, so that now before I make any purchase, even purchases that cost just a few dollars, I really think about how it will enrich my life right now -- not someday. If it won't, I leave it alone. I've learned so much about what I really need and use, what works for me and what doesn't. And in the time since my spending freeze, I've eliminated all my consumer debt (including buying and quickly paying off my dream car) and saved enough for a 3% down payment on a first home. I also take greater pleasure in the things I already do have, and in my more simplified home. I cannot recommend this kind of contentment challenge enough!

[@faithkoch4526]

Loved this❤️❤️❤️❤️ Today is March the 28th, and I’m just finishing up my first 30-day spending freeze, and I feel sooooooo good. I absolutely struggle in this area, so much so, that I have found myself in a considerable amount of debt. I always wanted to try a spending freeze but the mere thought would send me into an on line shopping frenzie🤪. Anyway, I bit the bullet, and have done it this entire month. It is soooooo liberating! Thank you for sharing. I love your videos😁. Now, I’m working on getting rid of “Any excuse will do.”😉

[@TheMinimalMom]

Ah, this is SO cool to hear! Awesome job!!!! 👍❤️

[@barbaramossbarger8826]

Ka

[@learnitwithlisa]

Your video showed up in my feed tonight, and I take it as a sign from God. I’ve got a spending problem and a clutter problem which has led to a debt and mess problem. Thank you for these tips and your honesty. I’ve got much work to do 🧐

[@betsyolsson-mackowski7682]

SPENDING FREEZE! You are so gifted at translating these concepts and illustrating how they work in real life. This is such a pragmatic channel! Thank you!

[@SimplyStacyL]

Target pickup has saved me a ton of money. I used to run to target for diapers and leave after spending $200 🤦🏻‍♀️😬 Now, I can order JUST what I need, drive up and get it, without walking in the store and overspending.

[@laurelglasgow7445]

I enjoy your minimalism journey. I am almost 70 and on a different minimalist journey. I don't feel the need to buy more stuff, and I am gifting lots of the nice things I collected in my younger years to my friends and relatives because I don't want to dust and/or wash them any more. They are loving their new treasures and I can get rid of things I don't need. When my parents died I realized how your treasures are mostly junk to others. Enjoy your new towels and sheets. They will not be what others love.

[@elaineashley1958]

I too am trying to avoid the "I deserve this $$ Starbucks" mentality. ( I work so hard, it's such a cold morning, it's going to be a long day, it's my one frill...) During the 6 weeks of Lent I give up Starbucks and donate the savings to my church on Easter. I have to say the chai tea latte tastes so much better after taking a break from it!

[@akashavillalobos]

This reminds me so much of what Noom teaches you about breaking your emotional food behavior chain! Buying when you don't need anything. Eating when you aren't actually hungry.

[@cenedraleaheldra5275]

Not long found your channel. I agree with a lot of what you say. I get that declutting is good for you. Having suffered a lot of depression. I find decluttering is good when I am at my worse.Back in the 1940 after world war2 everyone had very little. The world got itself back together. Making more things to update washing machines etc. But society got to be more wealthy. For about the next 40 years or so maybe 50 consumerism took hold. Less was equal to poor. And then more equaled rich. Now we declutter and call it free. I find all this new thinking very interesting. I agree whole heartedly that decluttering is the way to go. I hope we all learn to consume less. The enviroment could be so much better if we did. I remember many years back consumers were told it was all our fault for buying all the time. Mean while it is a very strategic formula to get people to spend. And the manufactures choose now to manufacture into their products a fault so you have to go and replace that item.

[@JennSGibbs]

I’m on a long term spending freeze so I can be a stay at home wife and mom of 2 11yo...

[@kriskitaoka5683]

It will be so worth it! I’m a stay at home homeschooling mom and it’s the best decision I ever made!

[@susanlangguth955]

Good girl😊

[@csikomas8910]

I agree, I had a rough start to life and found that I was envious of things others had and when I could afford it, I began to try to fill the bottomless pit. Note to self, things don't do it. Chasing things brought me so much anxiety. I am still super impulsive but it was a self made behaviour and similarly I have to be disciplined to adjust to more productive, useful and non harming behaviours. The trick is to catch yourself in the moment and be courageous to call yourself out on it. It's a journey. Be kind when when talking to yourself.

[@tracy_in_primary]

When I was a child most people didn't have a ton of leftover money, and credit cards were not around yet. In my family if we had a non-urgent need or want, those things were given as gifts at birthday's and Christmas. Then we went to live in a 3rd world country and the shopping was limited at best and abysmal at worst. Whatever we needed, that was unavailable, had to be sent up to us from our home country and we had to wait a long time for it to arrive. I think those experiences have coloured how I view shopping. The fact that I live 30 minutes from a shopping centre just keeps putting nails in the coffin of consumerism for me!

[@dawnhovie9806]

One of the things that has helped me is grocery pick up. It keeps me from wandering around Walmart putting things I don't need in my cart. I spend the week making my list and then going back and taking items off of it. I also work really hard to NOT go into the store when I'm there picking up my order, otherwise I inevitably buy things I don't need or didn't plan for. I just found that doing the grocery pick up has saved me time and money and that I am doing so much less impulse purchasing than when I enter the store.

[@angelamcclain5815]

Pray 🙏🏼 that there is hope for me 😇. What began as a bit of clutter has become overwhelming 😢. It is truly amazing how many times I promise myself “tomorrow”....... When I do get the nerve to try and tackle it.... I walk around in a daze wondering where and how to start. It’s just me and my precious puppy❣️ I moved to be closer (much smaller home) to my Dr’s due to autoimmune disease and have no company and developed a “what difference does it make” attitude 👎🏻. I know that I am very blessed, yet have no motivation except while watching you 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@AWanderingEye]

Can you make yourself do research on your new community? Put decluttering to the side and do something social. Or, reach out to old friends. Meet people away from home first. Then do the babystep routine. I started in a room that I can close the door on. Now it is a sanctuary where I begin my days. Reward yourself for your bravery and successes by acknowledging your inner strength. It may take awhile but resist judging your process. This work is just a cost of living. Think about what your environment can give you rather than what it will take. Next time you do a task set your timer and see how long it really takes --- often we drag our feet or become overwhelmed when we really need a reality check. And, often it takes less time than we imagined. Come back and read this message if you get despondent--- you have succeeded before, you CAN succeed. Try to give yourself breaks so you don't spend entire days slaving away --- decluttering your space is a form of creativity. You are reimagining yourself which is a difficult but truly rewarding task. All my best to you.

[@daniellecharland-gruhzit7788]

The above is in response to the question, " How do you get your spouse to stop spending?"

[@RealOrganized]

I can't say that I don't enjoy a little bit of "retail therapy" every now and again. However, like with anything else, it is so important to be intentional in your actions, whether that be shopping or eating or relaxing or whatever it is. Something I do to relax myself now and regain a sense of control when things are going crazy is to organize and optimize my surroundings. Thank you for yet another great video.

[@HappilyOrganizedChaos]

Sitting on my sofa, mid afternoon, with the sun beaming in holding a hot cup of herbal tea is one of my favorite things to do. Thanks for sharing this Dawn, it's another wonderful video filled with very useful information 💙 Take Care, Jen.

[@bonnyroggenbauer6518]

I love these ideas. My kids always ask for something when we go somewhere. Because they are "hungry". So now I tell them we are going somewhere and we aren't stopping for food. So if you are hungry, eat before we leave. My bad habit was constantly stopping at the gas station for drinks. I now take water and maybe a soda from home. That way no reason to stop. I still slip up sometimes, I'm human. I suffer from impulse buying too. Now when I want something it goes on a list on my phone. This is still a work in progress but it's getting easier. Love your channel.

[@janegardner604]

Awesome!! I started giving up the Starbucks when the window in the drivers side of my car broke so I cant roll it down! Yay! I’ve saved so much by never doing drive through! Also we are really dedicated to saving up for my next car so no extras. If I want something it has to come out of the budgeted spending. By the time I figure out if that’s doable, the impulse leaves! Great way to be content with what we already have!!

[@KatyInNH]

I am working on using up what I have before “back stocking” and on wearing out my clothing, etc., before buying. It is making a huge difference. Also working on eating at home 90 percent of the meals. So far we have reduced our food cost 30 percent. I am keeping track of cost avoidance also, I.e. fixing my air compressor versus buying a new one. It is shocking and keeps me coming home to cook instead of buying fast food. It is so much cheaper to pour my own soda than get a $1 soda at McDonalds!

[@cases3394]

I struggle so much with this. Going to the stores and buying stuff gives me such a "high" so I have resorted to giving myself an allowance which reduces my spending but still allows me some money to spend. This also makes me hyper conscious of what I'm spending it on so the purchases are more thoughtful.

[@viviangouldthorpe8366]

Congratulations for learning this at your young age. It took me much longer in life to learn that shopping is not a hobby! But once it set in, it has lasted! Experiences are so much more valuable and part of my life than material things. Just hoping I can teach my girls and grandkids the same lesson. Thanks for sharing this very valuable information.

[@TheMinimalMom]

I'm glad to hear this: "But once it set in, it has lasted!" -- I hope this encourages others, too!!!! :)

[@anordinarymom]

Yes! I'm getting there, and I really hope it sticks!!

[@katemiller7874]

Experiences are important to you. Not everyone.

[@Emilyvanrijn]

Thrift stores are my weakness. In decluttering im realizing how its easier to not buy something than it is to get rid of it. Especially things I buy for the kids like toys. So for that reason I'm trying a no spend year. But there are tons of other benefits to it besides staying uncluttered. I love your channel. So helpful and practical!

[@millerville2000]

Decluttering and minimizing has really helped for me. Listening to advice from you and others about waiting before purchasing, thinking about all that plastic waste with Starbucks cured me from their $5 not that amazing coffees ( that my husband still loves). My goal of I buy a new item something else in the house has to go makes it easier to just let the store keep and store their stuff. It also helps that at my house I still have books to read and activities to do from all that previous overspending. I honestly never want to go back to feeling like I need all the things.

[@teresaangelina9063]

such a good topic...and I don't even have a family...but you know, emotional shopping I didn't think I did until I started paying attention. and so, a freeze. and things went swimmingly until needed an intentionally purchased item. what I was not paying attention to was that the purchase, even of this needed item, opened the door to emotional shopping. I made this purchase online...and then, a few others that I justified followed very soon after. that was an eye opener to me. purchase with intention as needed but then, keep watchful going forward.

[@annacoats2988]

Lent is a perfect time for spending freeze. I saved so much this past season. It was very informational to me and I got a kick out of it.

[@square-on-wheels]

The struggle is real!! There's a reason those Target carts are so humongous. Thank you for your insight!

[@jenniferferreira6518]

Thank you! What helped me to spend less was bringing cash with me when i left the house for either gas or food, that was pre budgeted for the month and in an envelope. I left all credit and debit cards at home. This is the only way I could break the habit of using my card whenever I had the whim to spend. This trained me to later have cards with self control

[@margaretkrauss9353]

Staying out of stores is what helps me! Now that I am working mostly from home, I only go to the store when I have the intention to buy something specific. I used to "stop by" the store all the time on my way home from work. I still have to be careful online though. I really like the idea of a spending freeze; I am going to do that this January!

[@Selahsmum]

I find the library helps a lot with my "shopping therapy" urges. Not just browsing the shelves but getting on the catalogue and getting things on hold, so its like gettibg "new things" twice a week. It helps with that. 😁

[@Charlotteapaige]

This is so great!! I love to hear this as a librarian!

[@DD-xf1yd]

What a great idea!!

[@AWanderingEye]

Something that has worked for me is using various lenses...ex. no plastic. It just eliminates lots and lots of stuff, and you feel good not bringing more new plastic in your home which eventually will get recycled or trashed. Or, only buy "made in America" to reduce carbon foot print. Or, only buy used. There are a ton of diy recipes for things we normally buy individually in plastic containers. Then you get to try "diy therapy". Turning on our Creativity and Engaging with Nature buttons can be very rejuvenating. Kids fit in very well with these approaches.

[@cindyhetrick8174]

I stopped shopping 6 years ago because I was a hoarder in the last 2 years I bought 2 bras a pack Underpants a Packers socks and yesterday I got one pair of pants and a watch I needed I need new shoes I've been wearing for 4 years and I need new dress shoes the heal came apart and will cost $30.00 to fix at a repear shop

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Haven't done a spending freeze ... yet. You've got me thinking. I'm in process of purging my house as I near retirement and have gotten very free with little splurges (takeout, Starbucks, etc.) because I'm doing so well. Need to stop that and a freeze may be the ticket. Great topic for all of us to ponder.

[@MsPants1632]

Starbucks cheered me up this morning 🤦🏻‍♀️ or so I thought in the moment.... This video is so relatable!!! I’m in a SUPER busy season with my 4 kids and emotional eating has been my therapy... I’m a work in progress 😉 Thanks for sharing!

[@anordinarymom]

We're all works in progress!!

[@yaninad5766]

I did a lot of emotional eating too! Then switched to emotional shopping, wasn’t good for me either. Now I do emotional walking with my dog😁

[@MsPants1632]

Yanina D I’ll have to try that! Except my dog is small and after 30 feet he sits down 🤣🤣

[@camilledanieli7062]

Yes! All I this! Thank you for the motivation & encouragement! (I just subscribed to your channel after months of watching!) One of my favorite motivations is to keep a running log of how much I save. So whether it’s something minimal like bringing my lunch - or if it’s something more like a spending freeze - keeping a running log of how much money I am saving is HUGE!

[@SweetAndSimpleHome]

So so good! We did a spending freeze in February and during that time, our house flooded, our car broke down BIG time, and my dear friend was killed in a car accident. It was such an emotional month and I saw a side of myself that surprised me. But, like you, I found such joy in reading. In using what I had to bake something. Making cards for people, watching favorite films with my Hubbie- it was such a blessing. I’m glad we had a spending freeze- I don’t think I would have processed the stress as well. Thanks for all you share- I love your content!

[@abigaillanda7684]

Hello. New sub here 👋🏼 I was in the middle of a breastfeeding at 4am and found one of your videos about decluttering. Binged on a few vids and wow it finally clicked why it’s so hard for me to be clean/organized. I’m a messy person with hoarding tendencies, it’s always in my mind that I need to “clean” but I never could actually clean because of all the clutter everywhere. I was getting to the point of just telling myself that it’s ok that it’s normal to live like that, that everyone has a mess sometime.... long story short you have given me a breath of fresh air n hope to find the way to most needed change!

[@amandarestivo9297]

I have been watching several of your videos and noticed your earrings in one (they're super cute) and so I started thinking about all the jewelry I have - way too much. I NEVER wear it all. So back to the videos - just watching and seeing that you seem to wear the same two pair over and over is super inspiring! I love that they are simple, pretty and classic. I'm going to go through all my jewelry and get rid of a bunch. I want to love the pieces I have and enjoy them without having to dig through a bunch of stuff I no longer want to wear.

[@deb664]

Thank you. It was nothing short of a miracle that I tuned in to this video. I am a widow and during this COVID thing, I find I have spent SO much money on senseless things. I know that it is loneliness. Thank you for helping me recognize this. God bless you. Y

[@amandaowens7568]

Thanks for the great advice. Another possible no-cost alternative to emotional spending is:. Animal Watching: Sit and watch birds in the yard. Watch turtles negotiate corners around stones in the shallow water of a creek.

[@MsAwesomeGiraffe]

I'm a wedding planner so during winter I don't have any work and although my OH usually has some work to tide us over (he's my DJ so seasonal too!) This year he had hardly any so we really struggled and had an enforced spending freeze but it made me realise how little we really need to live on and how much we waste in summer when we're both earning! It's such an eye opener that now we're back working this week we're going to continue being thrifty so we can save for a fab holiday together and also to cover next winter so it's not quite so hard. :) Thanks for the great advice too xx

[@marisua3018]

I now use my spare time having coffee with a good friend, organizing each room one at a time, reading, watching your videos, and just enjoying my home and family wether we are at the park or just home playing with my kids.

[@bethanykolander2498]

Your videos are what I have needed for the past..many years. Advice I can understand with the right amount of detail without overwhelming me with specifics. Delivered kindly and candidly. I appreciate you taking the time to do this and love and need your moment of prayer and reflection. Thank you deeply.

[@bethlewis9981]

I found that what I really like is the whole process of shopping. Not so much in a store but on line. So I allow myself to shop--to browse, to choose, to select the size and the color etc. and even find things that coordinate with other things--and put them all in my shopping card. Then I go to another site or check my email or anything else. I have been amazed at how often I forget about the things I selected but never bought. And how that seems to have satisfied the need to shop!!

[@LivetolearnMama]

Same! I use Amazon frequently, and I usually move all of the items to "save for later" and browse through that when I'm actually ready to buy something. Most of the time, I end up deleting most of those saved items.

[@TheMinimalMom]

That's so awesome!!!

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

I enjoy going on thrift store “hunts” for unique things and just getting out of the house etc. Similar I guess. Now I just need to admire it and not buy it. Lately tho I’ve been scrutinizing things more and being a lot more picky about what to actually buy. I really enjoy looking tho. Some things I don’t know what they are for and I might play a little game of “but what is it?” 😅😅

[@lorenaballou4513]

Such great wisdom! I never thought about all the ads I'm being bombarded with on social media and online🤔

[@hobbygardeninthewoods]

Lorena Ballou right? Makes me want to cancel my Facebook accnt or just generally do less online browsing

[@eileenlester3313]

I hate all those ads! I rarely see anything of interest and if I do I always check out the bad reviews first. Then I think about whether I really need it or not.

[@85arrie]

I’ve started to ask myself “will I be getting rid of this within a year, or 2” if so I don’t buy it.

[@sophiadittmar1505]

I’ve noticed even though I barely make anything at my part time job, I’m totally an impulsive spender. This was really helpful. Thanks for sharing :D

[@maleidi]

You are so elucidative! I myself have been turning things around my house, finding new uses for stuff and using money wisely. The only thing I started buying were flowers and candles. I always like to see a bunch of fresh flowers when I come home and some candles at night, one of them close to the photos of my deceased parents. That's my heart splurge and that's all I need! ❤️

[@dmmosher]

Great video. I love doing spending freezes! If you don't think you can do it play a "game" where you can only spend $$$ using only the $$$ you get by selling unwanted items during the month. If you sell the treadmill you're not using for $75 you have $75 to spend! Of course it would be better if you saved it! But by playing the game you get rid of things, make a little money and REALLY think before spending the money again!

[@FamilyFunEveryDay]

After first going through the KonMari method a few years ago, I made a goal to go for a whole year without making new purchases except for food, hygiene, or replacing something truly worn out, such as holes in shoes (though on the latter, I always found a substitute anyway because I didn't even want to go into a store). Best year ever! It frees you up for so many other things. And I discovered the necessity to go to a dedicated grocery store as well, such as a Neighborhood Walmart instead of a Super Walmart--no temptation there. I need to start a buying freeze again, and this was my motivation. I'm starting today! Thank you so much!!!

[@barrysparksofficial]

Hi Dawn! What a great topic! I found out that a way for me to stop impulse buying was to keep a paper where I tracked down all of my expenses and just being able to see how much I was easily overspending was eye-opening!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Oh that's a really good idea!!!

[@AWanderingEye]

Using that method in the 1950s my mom saved enough for a house, car and furniture (I think it took about 5 years). She was super dedicated to having a family and home with my dad!

[@lisagavin3402]

I keep trying to get my daughter to do that....it's a real eye-opener when you see it on paper!

[@barrysparksofficial]

@@AWanderingEye that's amazing!😍

[@barrysparksofficial]

Yes, @@lisagavin3402! It did work for me right away!😬

[@joannec4356]

😩😩 I easily spend too much at Starbucks with their “loyalty card”. Maybe if I use cash I would be less likely to spend so much per month. I can SO relate to emotional buying.

[@IndigoAwakener]

A few years ago as I changed my diet, I found out just how OFTEN I was buying this or that while out, to eat. Now as I have been minimizing, I have found out just how OFTEN I was doing the little clearance or dollar purchases to appease the ego or kill time. Very eye opening!!! The first time I went into Target and didn't walk out with ANYTHING was cause for celebration. Not spending money, and Not eating garbage- Life changing! Thank you for this video. Discernment is so much more rewarding than mindless spending and eating. ♡

[@susanfaulkner8217]

I love that the things you treat yourself with are restful, we don’t spend enough time resting these days and the things you suggest are recharging and self caring. Brilliant suggestion, this is what I am going to do for January 2021

[@comm211student]

Yes this is something I have been working on. Especially when you talk about changing our habits to match our goals of simple living. I heard recently the opposite of scarcity is not abundance, it is enough. Learning that what I have is enough is my journey.

[@monicabryant4435]

I use the 24 hour rule similar to Gina’s post below... I got into trouble with Zulily and Amazon because it was so easy to fill my cart, click once, and spend $75! Now I force myself to leave items in my cart for at least 24 hours and 90% time the impulse disappears & I don’t make any purchases. 😁

[@TheMinimalMom]

Such a good discipline!!!! 👍❤️

[@catherinemcgill3004]

I did a 6 month shopping ban a few years ago. My family seemed to feel like I was depriving myself but I loved how aware I became of impulses and non essential things I was buying. Now I’m more intentional about my purchases but I feel another ban is needed. 😁

[@kimcirrone272]

I was the same way as you, I would go to target for one thing and throw in some things here and there from the dollar spot or clearance or clothes for my kids. I didn't even realize I was spending that much money, until I stopped. It was extremely hard at first but then after it felt amazing! Then like you, I replaced it with a bath or another thing was exercise and getting out in the fresh air. It made me feel like I was accomplishing so much, one by saving money and two by staying healthy while exercising. I love this video, thanx so much for sharing! I can't believe how long it took me to figure all this out!

[@Sophia_Strawberry]

Thank you so so much for your insight and motivation! Starbucks and Target are my weaknesses. I’ve been buying Starbucks for over 5 years and when I add that up it makes me sick to my stomach. It is definitely an emotional thing, good or bad and I’ve noticed my daughter expects it now too. That was an eye opener. I’m going to try the 30 day freeze on spending. Hopefully I will survive! :)

[@TheMinimalMom]

You can do it!!!! 👍❤️😘

[@MandyGood]

It took me a long time to finally stop shopping all the time but I’m doing it again... it’s so bad I spent 200 dollars on junk in 3 days. I’m so shame of myself. I want to make a habit of not shopping again but it takes self discipline. I don’t have children and I’m almost 30, but now I just read books and go to the park and take pictures!!!

[@MarielaMerino]

I did a no spend challenge for one month and it really helped me to see where my money was going. I made a video on it too, highly recommend!!

[@michaeldangelo5810]

I can almost always think of a use for just about anything which catches my eye (so that's not even a speed bump let alone a barrier to buying more and more stuff. A friend gave me this question tomask myseld before succumbing and buying things: "Will this purchase enhance my life?" That's a high enough barrier that I can almost always put the impulse purchase back on shelf. Thanks for the idea of coming up with pleasurable things to do at home (vs. mindlessly scrolling social and media, my current black hole of time use). More satisfaction and less junk! Thank you,

[@thatwinecountrylife1291]

What has helped is realizing the situations that I feel the weakest in and not putting myself in those situations. Also reminding me of my big financial goals in the moment - which would I rather have, a house or a trinket at dollar tree? I also recognize I would use shipping as a way to cope with feelings and instead I’m sitting with my feelings and dealing with my emotions.

[@koala2464]

With coffee and fast food etc, I bought reusable coffee cups and water bottles. I make a coffee/iced coffee at home to go. Water with lemon in the bottle and take snacks from home for when we get hungry while we were out. Sometimes I make a salad and eggs for lunch. It changed everything for me.

[@Boutys_mom]

I'm so glad I clicked on this video. I guess tomorrow is day 1 for my no buy. I won't lie. I'm nervous! But I need to start this sometime. Thank you!!!

[@britaneelilly8147]

I had to stop going to Target. Every trip started innocent enough, but I always spent around $20 and when I looked at my statement a few days later, I could never remember what I bought. New scent of soap, a cute kids shirt, some random thing that we "needed" for the house. Now I do order pick up if I need something because I can't be trusted to not wander and find something. It has been around a year since I started that and I have saved so much money and space in my home.

[@simplesgood7694]

I really love browsing at Goodwill and I’ve been really missing it now that I’ve been cutting it out. Once I went in just to browse and not spend money just to find out if it was just the browsing I liked. But the truth is totally out...no spending equals absolutely no interest in Goodwill!!!

[@nikkil764]

I can easily not spend on myself but I have gift spending for others happens just about every month. Birthdays, holidays, etc. May will bring Mothers Day, husbands birthday, etc. Did you not have gifts to buy?

[@lifeisgoodinthesouth210]

I would like an answer to this question as well.

[@hollycaffeinatednerdgirl940]

This was such a great video, I've never been a retail therapy person ever until the last couple years, I've been kind of trapped in my home dealing with a long-term Achilles injury and a couple other issues and all of a sudden it was something I was doing! Amazon and target were my downfall. I've been really working on it and I'm aware of it and I know why I was doing it. It started off as helpful for things I legitimately needed but then quickly turned to therapy. 🙄The stuff didn't make me feel better, it actually made me feel worse because it caused other problems.

[@yskeller5509]

My Mom and I have discussed this topic on many occasions. The easiest way not to spend money is to stay out of the car. Every time I get in the car, I spend money. Thankfully, where I live, retail therapy is rather limited. We have one Target and one Walmart in an area the size of West Virginia. If we want to shop at a mall, it's a 100-mile trip into Anchorage and to be honest, the malls there aren't that great... or at least not on par with what I was used to growing up.

[@marisah5724]

We have a 30 day rule. If we are considering something, we have to research it thoroughly and think about it for 30 days. If we still want it and feel like we need it then it is ok to proceed after that period. We also never buy fad items when they first get released. We wait for newer versions to be released a few years later. If the product is good, chances are the newer version will be better and cost less. Again, this is assuming we still need it. We are very mindful of everything we bring into our home. Thanks for your tips, Dawn!

[@sheiladyck5863]

Yes, it feels yucky - good way to say it! This video was very helpful in terms of explaining that we are trying to fill voids in our life - in my life God fills that void - but I'm not perfect and still give in to impulse buying sometimes, and then I feel "yucky!"

[@chelleliz9348]

We've been simplifying since last fall and I've become hyper-aware of not buying and filling up the house with more "things". It was even more obvious when we went on a short family vacation as part of Christmas. Every other trip we'd spend a lot of time looking for souvenirs and just browsing shop after shop. It felt so great to DO more, EXPERIENCE more and ENJOY the time instead of shopping and buying! P.S. Trying the meal planning next week 😀

[@carrieperrigo2319]

Sometimes I go to a store and try on everything I like. Then I put everything back. It's the trying on that's fun. Sometimes I see how much weight I've put on and it keeps me from buying! :)

[@MrsScott-bx8sb]

This is hard for me now because I grew up in poverty and constantly heard "no" and walked by all the goodies and things everyone else could buy. Living a life of deprivation not only from the extras, but the necessities as well, those old scary feelings come back if I say no to that coffee or cute knick knack on clearance.

[@OrganizedWithJoy]

Yes! This SO resonates with me! I decided to do a "no spend" year in 2019 (I put that in quotes because I am focusing on specific areas that were problematic for me - clothes, shoes, accessories, and home decor.) It has been interesting to stop buying those things cold turkey. I am learning a lot from this experience so far (almost three months in!) The biggest thing I am noticing is how much extra time I seem to have. If I need to go run errands for necessities, I can get in and out quickly because I'm not browsing. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@amyreads99]

I'm doing a no-spend year too! I saved $1,000 the first two months! I couldn't believe it! I agree -- I totally have more time and my brain isn't cluttered with that "should I, do I deserve it?" conversation!