I want to reduce spending Cold turkey without stopping consuming? It is for this very reason that the year of “buy less” is trending. And it can have a positive impact on your finances as well as your finances. mental health.
Modified versions of previously popular ones Pledge not to buythe low-purchase version appeals to a wider range of users who find the flexible approach more accessible and manageable.
Money is more than just a number — it’s emotionalDr. Clifton Barwise, a clinical psychologist and director of clinical strategy for digital content at workforce wellbeing platform Modern Health, told CBS News.
“It’s tied to our sense of security, our goals, and even our identity,” he said, adding that spending habits can affect mental health in a variety of ways.
“There is a deep connection between overconsumption and mental health, often creating a cycle in which our emotions drive us to spend, which in turn affects our well-being,” he said. “Emotions such as sadness, shame, and excitement can lead to impulsive spending and overconsumption. These small purchases may seem harmless in the moment, but they have long-term financial consequences. It can cause stress and mental strain. Over time, this can fuel feelings of guilt, anxiety, and a sense of loss of control. ”
These challenges allow people to take some control over their finances by spending carefully and focusing on savings.
One TikTok user, whose post has garnered about 200,000 views, shares some of his own low-spending habits, including limiting coffee to two times a week, not using takeout apps, and not buying new kitchen gadgets. We shared the “rules”.
In a post with more than 700,000 views, another TikTok user said she plans to unsubscribe from paid apps and cut back on streaming platforms, but allows spending on family activities like going to the zoo or museum. He announced that he was planning to do so.
“(Things) are clogging my brain and clogging my life, so I need to get rid of them and save more,” she said.
Another user, with over 800,000 views, said that she wanted to make her own hair better, including a visit to the hair salon (by embracing her natural color and getting a trim at home), a new mug (by using one she already had), and more. focused on specific items or services that they would not purchase or exchange for free alternatives. ), books (use the library instead).
“By controlling your money, you feel more in control of your overall life, and that sense of control is very important for your mental health,” Barwise said. . “Most of our financial stress comes from focusing on things we can’t control, like rising prices and taxes. Shifting your focus to things you can control, like standing upright, can be empowering.” ”
Shopping at low prices can also be an opportunity to connect with other things that bring you joy beyond spending.
For example, enjoy a board game night at home with friends, or read a book that’s been sitting on your bookshelf. Or, instead of wandering around the store, get in touch with nature. through a walk outside.
How to start the Low Price Purchase Challenge
set realistic goals
While many on social media focus on low-priced purchases as a goal, Barwise suggests starting with monthly goals.
“As it is a challenge, it should have a beginning and an end, and if you are trying it for the first time, I would recommend no more than a month,” he said. “Take time to evaluate how you acted and what you could have done differently,” he said. And if it goes well, you can start again.
focus on moving forward
“It’s about progress, not perfection. It’s okay to fail. Treat yourself with compassion and refocus. Small intentional steps can make a big difference in both your financial and emotional well-being.” ,” Barwise said.
Track your progress
Completing a challenge can have its own mental health benefits.
“Successfully completing these tasks triggers the release of brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin that signal feelings of happiness and calmness, reducing feelings of stress,” he said.
