Consumerism is about to reach an all-time high. With Christmas around the corner and Black Friday looming, people are ready to dig deep into their pockets to buy outfits for Detty December or, as we like to call it, “Detty Decembounce.” If you want to enter the new year without being weighed down by debt, now is the perfect time to start taking control. Below  are ten practical tips to help curb your shopping addiction and become a more mindful spender.

Start with your Own Wardrobe and Beauty Stash

Before spending on new clothes, look through your own wardrobe and beauty products. Use Pinterest to gather inspiration on how to style pieces in fresh, exciting ways. Experimenting with new combinations will make your outfits feel current and stylish, helping you save money while breaking out of your style rut. This simple practice could even help you discover your personal style.

Replace Shopping with a Hobby You Love

If you often shop to pass the time or reward yourself, try redirecting that energy to a new hobby. Revive an old passion or try something new like content creation, knitting, cooking, or even reading. These hobbies provide a positive dopamine boost just like shopping does, without the cost. This change can be both fulfilling and budget-friendly.

Unfollow Influencers Who Tempt you to Shop

It might be hard to do, but unfollowing or muting influencers who trigger your urge to shop can make a huge difference. Remember, most of what influencers promote was either gifted or sponsored, and the more you compare, the more you’re likely to overspend. Protect your wallet by following people who inspire rather than tempt you to buy things you don’t need.

 Plan ‘No-Spend’ or ‘Low-Spend’ Days in your Week

Regular no-spend days are a fantastic way to reset your approach to money. Schedule a few days each month where you don’t make any purchases, not even small ones. This won’t just save you money; it can also help you see how much value there is in enjoying a day without the need to spend.

Talk Openly About Your Budget with Friends

Embrace what’s known as “loud budgeting” with friends. Let them know if you’re watching your spending, and don’t be afraid to suggest budget-friendly alternatives. Your real friends will support your goals and might even feel inspired to follow suit. The more openly you discuss your budget, the easier it will be to stay on track.

Unsubscribe from Promotional Emails and Notifications

If your inbox is filled with tempting retail offers, it’s time to unsubscribe. Promotional emails and shopping app notifications are designed to draw you in with flashy discounts, but without constant reminders, you’ll feel much less tempted to buy. Reduce the noise and you’ll reduce the urge.

Avoid Window Shopping Entirely

Skip both in-store browsing and online scrolling “just to look.” This is often the gateway to impulse buying. When you casually browse, you start identifying items you’d like to own, which can lead to unnecessary purchases when you’re feeling low or need a quick pick-me-up. By cutting out window shopping, you can keep your mind focused on essentials instead.

Use a 30-Day Wait List for Non-Essentials

If something catches your eye, add it to a “wait list” and revisit it in 30 days. More often than not, you’ll find that the initial urge fades, and you may decide the item isn’t worth the expense after all. This cooling-off period helps you avoid unnecessary splurges and puts you back in control.

Reward Yourself with Experiences Instead

Next time you feel the urge to celebrate, choose an experience over a purchase. Meet up with friends, plan a cosy movie night, or explore a new place. Experiences provide memorable rewards without the financial burden of shopping. Plus, they don’t add clutter to your life.

Forgive Yourself for Any Slip-Ups

Breaking a shopping habit takes time, and slip-ups may happen. If you overspend, don’t beat yourself up about it. Acknowledge it, learn from it, and keep moving forward. Staying patient and kind to yourself makes the process far more rewarding and sustainable.