I’m a people watcher. I find it fascinating to observe others. Recently I was at a busy section of a shopping center and had several minutes to people watch. I observed a lot of shoppers and had some insights about consumerism that I want to share. Specifically about WHY people shop. Most of us can probably relate to some or all of these reasons. It’s important to recognize our behavior, what we do and why. Find alternatives to things that aren’t benefiting us. Then continually work on changing our habits and beliefs to be more inline with our goals and values. We should always work at becoming better.
Some reasons why people shop…
Productivity: People often confuse busyness with being productive. It’s a terrible misconception in society. People feel important if they have things to do, places to go, stuff to buy. Some feel productive when they cross things off their shopping list.
Amusement: Some people shop for fun. There’s the ladies that go shopping just to hang out with the girls. Shopping til they drop. Tourists that buy souvenirs instead of taking part in enriching experiences. Since the 1980’s shopping has been the number one hobby of teenage girls. Shopping shouldn’t be considered a hobby! (my teenage/early twenties self would roll her eye’s at me for saying that haha.) Here is an interesting article about some alarming shopping statistics. Now, as a fashion lover I’m not saying we should never shop for enjoyment, just reign it in. I try to hold off on shopping until I need something, then I’ll allow myself to enjoy shopping for that need.
Accomplishment: Some people feel like they are accomplishing something when shopping. They think of shopping as a treasure hunt or a game. They feel smart and successful when they find good deals, use coupons, scour sales racks, get store rewards etc. Are you really #winning though when you are spending money unnecessarily?
Emotions: Two words, Retail Therapy. People shop because of sadness, boredom, or to celebrate. People often turn to shopping to fill a void. Buying new workout clothes isn’t going to automatically make you fit. Buying more makeup isn’t going to necessarily make you feel prettier. That new sports equipment isn’t going to make you an all-star. Lasting happiness comes from within, not from buying a bunch of crap.
Purpose: I find this incredibly sad, yet most of us have probably been here. Some people shop for simply something to do. My mom once told me that for a time during my childhood she went to the grocery store almost every single day. Being a stay at home mom, she needed some socializing and a place to go. Some people who work from home go get a coffee or a soda each morning, just for a reason to get dressed and get out of the house each day. We should have more purpose in our lives rather than just being a consumer.
Obviously I’m not perfect. I’ve definitely fit into every single one of these categories at different parts of my life. Over the last few years I’ve dramatically changed my views on shopping. I’ve wised up. There’s way more to this world and life than shopping shopping shopping. If you need ideas on free things to do instead of spending money, check out this list.
