What am I missing? Why can't I stop buying?
I really want to embrace nobuy, with the eventual goal of a 6 month streak. So I want to go about this strategically and with a plan. I'm posting this hoping experts here will chime in to help me understand the why I keep buying and also tips to get started strong and without relapses.
***Sidenote: I'm not counting experiences like family dining out or museums, etc. as no buy
Motivation for nobuy:
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- Save money for emergency fund
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- it's really important to my spouse (this is the biggest pain point)
What I've done already:
- Paid off all CC debt - major motivation to keep it that way
- Canceled most subscriptions
- Still have Netflix (cheapest) and Peacock: Rationale is I need this while I'm working since I WFH and ads distract me from my work
- Still have Text Blaze because cuts so many work tasks in 1/2
- Started journaling (I read that helped someone)
- Got my Libby app going - no new books in months
Weaknesses:
- Amazon: I don't get it's chokehold on me, I literally can't explain it
- Things for my kid: I just can't help thinking this next thing I buy will be the thing that teaches them, or entertains them, etc.
- "Health": Arguable because I have no conditions. It's mostly supplements that might help. I don't end up drinking them and have tons sitting on my desk
- Social Media: I'm a doomscroller and those darn targeted ads get me every time
- Starbucks: Can't resist - did anyone beat this one?
- Skincare: I've been self-concious about this lately and have spent money on devices and serums promising to reverse time
Backstory:
- I come from poverty and sometimes want for things I didn't get in childhood: pens, notebooks, stickers, toys for my kid, etc.
- I end up spending convenience taxes: Things/subscriptions etc that promise shortcuts. Example: TextBlaze for work
- I feel like I should "treat" myself to things, like I deserve these things: Starbucks, skincare, vitamins, etc. Don't know any nobuy ways to treat myself.
Posted May 29, 2026, 7:58 PM UTC
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