Tips To Kick Your Online Shopping Habit

These days, shopping is easier than ever. With online stores offering fast shipping and delivering everything from groceries to furniture to home goods, the e-commerce industry is booming. However, for those who are prone to impulse buys and other unhealthy shopping habits, this convenience can be dangerous.

 

It’s no wonder that online shopping can quickly become compulsive. Dopamine levels spike in our brains when we see a cue like an ad, browse for an item or consider pressing the checkout button. If gone unchecked, compulsive online shopping can lead to emotional, financial and relationship problems. Here’s how to close some of those open shopping tabs and break the bad habit.

 

Find another way to get your dopamine 

Find a productive activity that gets you excited. Devote your energy to a hobby instead of shopping.

 

Develop a checklist 

Ask yourself the question: Do I really need this item? Do I already have something like it? Why am I purchasing this?

 

Unsubscribe from newsletters

Email marketing is a well-oiled machine. It’s designed to hit your inbox when you’re most tempted to shop. Remove triggers by unsubscribing from promotional shopping newsletters.

 

Change your relationship with your tech

Just being on a phone or computer can be a trigger to shop online. Take a break from your devices for a while.

 

Track your spending

You might be surprised how quickly it can add up. Seeing the numbers in front of you can create more awareness.

 

Set clear limits

You don’t have to quit online shopping cold turkey. That budget we just talked about? Try to stay within it and see how much relief you feel when you hit your goals.

 

Wait a moment before every purchase

Give yourself some time before hitting the checkout button. There’s nothing wrong with keeping items in your online cart for a few days while you decide if your purchase is a necessary one or a compulsive one.

 

If you’re still worried about your online shopping habits, we have programs and care options that can help support your mental health and wellbeing.