Ok, today’s post is going to cover a question I’ve been getting lately regarding going on a shopping freeze. I think it’s a super legitimate concern and one I’ve had myself, so it deserves its own post.
The question: how do you go on a shopping freeze without completely turning into a hermit?
To be frank, I think every situation is what we make it, and it’s no different for a shopping freeze. For me, I try not to make it a big deal to myself or others. If I keep a more relaxed perspective, and not worry about things like becoming a hermit because I want to spend my money more wisely, then the pressure to avoid it kind of floats away. That’s not to say I never have those thoughts, though. So when I do find myself in certain situations, this is how I’ve been handling it:
Find the fun in window shopping
Instead of turning my friends down when they ask me to go shopping or blocking all of my favorite store websites, I just think of it as an opportunity to find new inspiration instead. This allows window shopping to be fun rather than torturous. And remember, it’s only as big of a deal as you make it, so keep a level head and you should be good to go.
Embrace free activities in your city
This has actually been an amazing perk of not shopping. It’s kind of forced me to get to know my amazing city again and search out things to do that don’t involve spending money. I highly recommend doing this whether you’re on a shopping freeze or not. I mean, who doesn’t like free activities? Most of the time they involve free food too, so I consider it a win-win.
Become more self-aware
This tip kind of goes into the psychology of shopping and the effects it has on us. Learning about yourself in this way can majorly help you say no when you’re feeling most tempted. You can learn why you feel the need to shop or why you’re drawn towards certain items, and then make that your focus. I suggest digging a little deeper on this one because I think there are some valuable lessons here for me and you might find the same.
Keep goals in mind while out and about
If you’re out and about with friends and you run into a dress or a pair of shoes that you feel like you have to have — think about your goals. I know I said above not to always have it on your mind, and you shouldn’t, but when you need a reality check, give yourself one. Remember your why in all of this — why you started and how you’d feel if you got off track.
Host
It is totally possible to have dinners and meet for coffee with friends (aka see people!) without spending any money. How? Host! Whip up a tasty dish or offer to brew your guest’s favorite blend and have your meet up at home. It doesn’t even have to be fancy. Just add it in as a suggestion the next time (but not every time because we’re trying to avoid hermit life) you’re planning an outing.
Making these adjustments might feel tricky at first, but the more you commit to your freeze the easier it’ll become. I have confidence we can all find that balance! If you’ve been in this situation, what are ways you avoided becoming a hermit?
photography by Jojotastic.
