Image from the Black Girl Heal website article: How to Stop Buying Stupid Stuff and Take Control of Your Spending
Wellness

How to Stop Buying Stupid Stuff and Take Control of Your Spending

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Hello, my beautiful sisters.

Let’s talk about something we’ve all done: buying things we don’t need.

Maybe it was a late-night Amazon binge, a “treat yourself” moment that went too far, or a great sale that convinced you to spend money on something you’ll never use. We’ve all been there, but today, we’re going to break that cycle.

If you’ve ever felt buyer’s remorse, overwhelmed by clutter, or frustrated at not having enough savings, this is for you.

Let’s learn how to stop buying stuff that doesn’t serve us and redirect that energy toward building a purposeful, abundant life.


Why We Overspend

Sisters, it’s so easy to get caught up in the moment.

Retail therapy promises to make us feel better. Social media ads convince us we need the latest trends. Sometimes, we’re filling an emotional void, buying to escape stress, boredom, or even sadness.

But how often does the happiness last? That quick dopamine hit fades, leaving us with items we don’t use, clutter in our homes, and regret in our hearts. It’s not your fault—it’s a system designed to make you want more.

What if, instead of spending mindlessly, you could align your purchases with your goals, your values, and your dreams? Imagine the freedom and clarity that would bring.


Purposeful Spending

What you spend your money on reflects your priorities. When you buy with intention, you’re not just saving money—you’re creating space in your life for what truly matters.


You Can Change Your Bad Spending Habits

Breaking the habit of impulse buying isn’t easy, but you can absolutely do it.

By taking small steps, you can learn to say no to what doesn’t serve you and yes to the things that truly add value to your life.

Image from Black Girl Heal website article:How to Stop Buying Stupid Stuff and Take Control of Your Spending
Credit: Canva

How to Stop Buying Stupid Stuff

1. Identify Your Triggers
Think about when and why you tend to overspend. Is it when you’re stressed, bored, or scrolling online? Once you know your triggers, you can address the root cause instead of reaching for your wallet.

2. Wait Before You Buy
Practice the “24-hour rule.” When you see something you want, wait at least a day before purchasing it. Often, the urge will pass, and you’ll realize you didn’t need it after all.

3. Create a Budget with Purpose
Set spending limits, but also allocate money for things that align with your goals—whether it’s saving for a dream trip, investing in your business, or paying off debt. When every dollar has a job, it’s easier to avoid wasteful spending.

4. Unsubscribe from Temptation
Unsubscribe from emails and alerts that constantly promote sales. Unfollow social media accounts that make you feel like you need more to be happy. Protect your peace.

5. Declutter and Take Inventory
Go through your home and see how much you already have. Often, we buy duplicates because we forget what we own. Decluttering can also remind you of how much money you’ve already spent on unnecessary items—and motivate you to change.

6. Focus on Your Goals
When you’re tempted to buy something, ask yourself:

  • Will this bring me closer to my goals?
  • Does this align with the life I want to create?
  • Is this a need or a want?

7. Celebrate Your Progress
When you avoid an unnecessary purchase, reward yourself with something free—like time to relax, a walk in nature, or writing down your progress. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small.


Uplifting Call to Action

Sisters, you are worth more than the stuff you buy.

You don’t need the latest gadgets, trendy clothes, or things that only bring fleeting happiness. What you truly need is peace of mind, freedom from financial stress, and alignment with your purpose.

Next time you’re tempted to buy something you don’t need, pause and remind yourself: I am in control of my money, and I choose to invest in my dreams, not distractions.

Your journey to intentional spending and purposeful living starts today. Let’s do this together.

Author

  • Shelia Huggins Photo for Black Girl Heal Blog

    Shelia Huggins is a 20+ year attorney who has helped clients with their business and personal legal challenges. She blogs at Black Girl Heal to provide insight and practical strategies for those seeking to heal the struggles of their wallets, mindsets, and lives. Known as "Ms Legalista" on YouTube, she is passionate about helping people find their path and achieve the personal success they've been looking for.

    View all posts

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