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:

    1. Save money for emergency fund
    1. 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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