Q: Dear Ruchi, to put it simply, I am totally an impulse shopper. I’ve started to notice patterns of impulse shopping on my credit card statements and every time I do, I become upset with myself. How do I work on breaking this cycle? It’s holding me back from my financial goals
A: First, let’s take a moment to celebrate the fact that you’re already taking the first step by looking at your numbers and recognizing patterns. This is a huge win because understanding what’s happening behind the scenes is key to making any financial improvements! Second, I want to help reframe those feelings of guilt or regret after impulse shopping. It’s totally normal to feel this way and you are not alone. Give yourself grace and let go of the judgment. You’re here because you want to break old habits and step into a more prosperous life, and that’s something to celebrate!
According to Yahoo Finance, 21% of women also struggle with impulse shopping. They even called it “the most common bad money habit among women.” So why do we keep impulse shopping? That’s thanks to dopamine—your brain’s “feel-good” chemical. It gives you that happy, excited rush when you buy something new, and that makes you want to do it again and again. While that instant gratification can be tempting, relying on shopping for those hits of happiness can take a toll, both emotionally and financially, just as it has done for you.
The good news is that we can channel that same dopamine boost into healthier, more fulfilling activities that make us feel good and help us grow. Things like spending time with friends, going for a walk in nature, exercising, or even learning something new are all great ways to naturally boost your dopamine levels without the financial guilt. These small shifts can improve your mental well-being and help you stay on track with your financial goals!
On this journey, it’s also important to recognize why we create certain patterns in the first place. Understanding the reasons behind our habits is just as crucial to breaking them. And having the right support system, like the team at Watch Her Prosper, can make all the difference in helping you explore these patterns and create a healthier, happier relationship with money.
Here’s to your prosperity!
Ruchi
