How I stopped my impulse spending habits

1. Deleting convenient shopping apps

This includes apps like DoorDash, Amazon, and Grailed/Depop. Removing the convenience of these apps from my phone prevented me from browsing when I am bored and ordering takeout. Amazon was the biggest problem for me, but if there is something I really need then I will go to the website and order it straight away then close the tab to remove the urge to browse.

2. Replaced price tags with time tags

When I look at the price of something at a store, I ask "how long would I have to work to recuperate this money?". This helps me calculate the "value" of the item. So if a designer pair of shoes cost $500, I know if I buy this I would have to work 34 hours of my life just to make that money back. This strategy helps me evaluate how important an item actually is to me, and helped me save a good amount of money.

3. Downloading useful apps

There are a bunch of budgeting apps out there that can help you put your money habits into perspective. I like Pawket because it focuses on building healthier habits with an accountability system. If you don't like gamified apps then their are other apps take a more serous approach with spreadsheets and boxes to fill in. Apps like You Need a Budget and Copilot are good for the serious approach if that's what you need, and they do still have nice features.