If the delivery truck seems to be a regular visitor at your door, it may be time for some self-reflection.
When the world faced an overwhelming crisis a couple of years ago, many of us experienced heightened anxiety. We took precautions—like donning gloves to retrieve the mail. In times of fear, behavior often shifts. Some people had vivid dreams, developed unusual hobbies, and sought comfort in easily accessible ways, such as food and shopping. Online shopping, in particular, surged by 32% in 2020. Whether you found yourself exploring collaborations at Target, ordering multiple pairs of wireless bras for comfort during remote work, or decorating your home with charming knick-knacks, shopping became a means to regain a sense of normalcy. As the pandemic progressed, some of us inadvertently transformed into compulsive shoppers, acquiring items not out of necessity, but to alleviate stress.
Now that life is returning to a semblance of normalcy, justifying those purchases has become more challenging. The 5.2% of Americans who struggle with compulsive shopping often face severe post-purchase regret, akin to the hangovers experienced after a night of drinking. Parents, in particular, may find themselves overspending as they constantly seek new items for their children. It’s all too easy to browse for kids’ clothes and end up indulging in adult-sized items as well, especially with enticing promo codes at your fingertips. The desire to be prepared can also mask impulsive buying as a practical necessity—like purchasing extra sweatshirts or hats for an impending cold snap.
There are various types of problematic shoppers. Those who shop to alleviate stress are often labeled as “compulsive.” However, this behavior can take different forms: Collectors who need every color of an item, Bargain Seekers who buy solely because of discounts, or Bulimic Shoppers who splurge and then return everything out of regret. If any of this resonates with you, consider these signs that your shopping may be out of control.
Signs Your Shopping May Be Out of Control
- Overspending: If your shopping habits are jeopardizing your financial stability, it’s time to reassess. This isn’t about basic necessities but rather spending beyond your means on non-essential items.
- Secrecy: Are you hiding packages or shifting money around to fund your shopping? If you’re concealing purchases or managing finances in a way that avoids scrutiny, it’s a clear signal that you need to evaluate your habits.
- Compulsive Stages: If you find yourself in a cycle of anticipation, preparation, shopping, and then guilt or frustration, it’s a sign of compulsive behavior.
- Relationship Strain: If your shopping causes tension with your partner—whether through subtle remarks or outright arguments—consider if these purchases are worth the strain on your relationship.
- Purchasing Unused Items: Buying items that remain unused or still tagged is a strong indicator of problematic shopping. Often, these purchases stem from anxiety rather than genuine need.
- Feelings of Guilt: If shopping leaves you with feelings of guilt or shame, it signifies an underlying issue that should be addressed. Seeking help—whether through therapy or support groups—can provide valuable resources for managing these feelings.
As you reflect on your shopping habits, remember that fulfillment often eludes us when we chase material possessions. Consider the disappointment that follows when an eagerly anticipated package arrives only to fall short of expectations. Before you hit that checkout button, think about whether the purchase will genuinely enhance your life or simply contribute to a cycle of regret.
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