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AIBU?

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Original poster

To ask for help with my shopping addiction.

57 replies

LovingPoster · 04/12/2025 11:35

I find this time of year incredibly difficult when it comes to reigning in my spending. I’ve always spent too much and now I have a daughter I’ve transferred the shopping I used to do for myself, on to things for her.

I keep browsing Amazon and other places online several times a day. I’ll forget what I’ve already bought sometimes. I keep seeing the next ‘perfect’ thing and buying it within seconds. I panic when deals happen around Black Friday etc and buy things quickly so I don’t miss discount codes or free delivery.

I keep telling myself that I’m done and then I keep buying more…

OP posts:
Letsbe · 04/12/2025 11:51

Do you think making a note of what you want to buy and then going back in a week to see if you still want it might work? I think we all get a rush from the buying but then you look back and think that was a waste.

You could even tranfer for money you decide not to spend into an experience account that you use for memories not junk.

Original poster
LovingPoster · 04/12/2025 11:49

Thank you @OvernightBloats - this is really helpful advice. I will definitely try this. I think one of the reasons I struggle with this time of year is because nothing is really ‘essential’ but I also get caught up in the magic of presents, Christmas Eve boxes, new outfits, decorations… we’re actually moving house soon and through all the decluttering I’m finding that I’ve actually made life so much harder for us all by just having so much excess stuff.

OP posts:
OvernightBloats · 04/12/2025 11:46

Could you set a limit to how much you spend a month on these things?

Write down in a notebook (or online) every spend you make - doing this will really make you step back and reassess.

Always say to yourself before you buy, "Do I need this (really need this)?". Are the items essential?

Original poster
LovingPoster · 04/12/2025 11:41

I’m definitely aware of her getting overwhelmed. I tend to rotate toys and put some away and only have some out but I’m very aware that she doesn’t focus very well on one particular toy or activity and doesn’t have a lot of appreciation for the things she has which is entirely my fault.

I can afford it within reason. I do use Klarna and pay in 3 options but never miss payments. I could definitely use the money for more experiences than things though.

OP posts:
rubyslippers · 04/12/2025 11:39

Are you getting into debt?

IamSmarticus · 04/12/2025 11:38

I am assuming you can afford all this stuff you are buying and aren't getting into debt for it?

ComfortFoodCafe · 04/12/2025 11:36

Your dd will end up overwhelmed with all this stuff. Surely she doesnt use half of what she already has if this is the case?