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Thank you, Captain Obvious. But seriously — one of the reasons you’re probably making an impulse purchase is because you’re not feeling inspired. From a mental health perspective, you simply need to find other healthier sources of stimulation, says psychologist Dr. Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D. For example, she explains that exercising can be a helpful way to divert your urge to spend. “Through cardio, weights, yoga or Pilates, you can work off some of those boredom feelings,” she continues. “Furthermore, exercising can result in positive feelings — like an adrenaline high or a peaceful mood, which can naturally fill you up rather than turning to boredom spending.”
Another way to decrease boredom spending is to find a creative outlet that provides satisfaction. For example, she explains activities like cooking, baking, painting, writing, playing an instrument, singing, or dancing can give you a channel to express yourself innovatively. “Being involved in a creative activity can also give you an activity that makes it less likely you’ll feel unfulfilled,” she continues. “In addition, you may be proud of your creative endeavor and feel good about yourself and, as a result, be less likely to boredom spend.”
Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D. is a licensed Psychologist In Los Angeles. To read the full article “How To Stop Spending Money When You’re Bored” visit hermoney.com