want to Reduce expenses Not quitting spending cold turkey? It’s for this reason that the “buy low” year is becoming a trend – not only can it have a positive impact on your finances, but it can also have a positive impact on your life. mental health.
Previously popular modified versions "Don't buy" promisethe low-purchase version appeals to a wider audience who find the flexible approach easier to acquire and manage.
Money is more than just numbers - it's emotionalDr. Clifton Berwise, clinical psychologist and head of clinical strategy for digital content at workforce well-being platform Modern Health, told CBS News.
“It has everything to do with our sense of security, our goals, and even our identity,” he said, adding that consumption habits can impact mental health in many ways.
"Overconsumption and mental health are closely linked and often create a cycle where some of our emotions drive spending, which in turn affects our well-being," he said. "Feelings of sadness, shame or even excitement can lead to impulsive spending and Overspending – These small purchases may seem harmless in the moment, but can cause long-term financial stress and emotional strain, which can exacerbate guilt, anxiety and emotional tension over time. “A feeling of loss of control. . "
These challenges allow people to regain some control over their finances by spending carefully or focusing on saving.
One TikTok user, whose post has been viewed nearly 200,000 times, shared her low-purchase "rules," which include limiting coffee to twice a week, not using food delivery apps and not buying any fancy kitchen gadgets.
Another TikTok user said in a post that has been viewed more than 700,000 times that she planned to unsubscribe from any paid apps and cut back on streaming platforms, but would still be allowed to spend money on family activities such as trips to the zoo or museum.
"(Stuff) is clogging up my brain, clogging up my life, and I need it gone and I need to save better," she said.
Another user with over 800,000 views focused on specific items and services that she would not purchase or would trade for free alternatives, including trips to the hair salon (by embracing her natural color and at-home trims), new mugs (by using Stuff she already had) ) and books (using the library instead).
"Taking control of your finances can definitely help you feel more in control of your life overall, and that sense of control is really important for mental health," Burwais said. "A lot of financial stress comes from things we have no control over. things like price increases or taxes. But when we turn our attention to things within our control, like consciously budgeting and making realistic financial plans, it can empower us.”
Low purchase challenges can also be opportunities to connect with other things that spark joy beyond consumption.
For example, have a board game night at home with friends, or read a book you've had on your bookshelf forever. Or, instead of wandering around the store, connect with nature by walking outside.
Set a realistic goal
While many on social media are hoping for lower purchases this year, Berwise recommends starting with a monthly goal.
“Since it’s a challenge, it should have a beginning and an end, and I recommend that you don’t try it for more than a month for the first time,” he said. "Give yourself some time to evaluate your performance and what you could have done differently," he said. If it goes well, you can start over.
Focus on moving forward
"It's not about perfection; it's about progress. If you make a mistake, that's okay. Treat yourself with compassion and refocus. Small, intentional steps can make a big difference to your financial and emotional health," Burwais said.
Track your progress
Completing the challenge itself is good for mental health.
"Successfully completing these challenges triggers the release of brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin that signal happiness and calmness and reduce feelings of stress," he said.