Jul 17, 2023

The Hidden Truth of Chasing the "Aesthetic" Lifestyle

It's not just about staying up to date with trends anymore...

Are you finding it increasingly difficult to resist the urge to click that "Buy Now" button when scrolling through your favorite online stores or scrolling aimlessly on TikTok? Trust me, you're not alone! Today, we're diving deep into the world of overshopping and uncovering the real reasons behind this habit that many of us twenty-somethings seem to have developed. Buckle up, because it's time to unmask the symptom! — Photo: Unsplash

Our generation is all about aesthetics, and we have an undeniable obsession with creating our dream spaces. From Pinterest-worthy bedrooms to Amazon must-haves on TikTok that would make even the most seasoned interior designers blush, we are constantly on the hunt for the next big thing to add to our ever-growing collections. But have you ever wondered why the void for an aesthetic lifestyle seems impossible to fill?

Overshopping is often a symptom of something deeper. It's not just about buying things for the sake of buying; it's about finding comfort, expressing ourselves, and staying connected to the ever-evolving trends. So, let's explore a few reasons why this habit may have crept into our lives.

Instant Gratification Culture

Living in the digital age has spoiled us with instant gratification. With a simple click, we can have anything our hearts desire delivered to our doorsteps within a matter of days. It's the ultimate rush! Over-shopping becomes a way to fill the void and experience that adrenaline rush, momentarily satisfying our craving for excitement.

The Quest for Self-Expression

Our bedrooms and apartments have become our personal canvases for self-expression. We curate our spaces to reflect our personalities, interests, and aspirations. Each new purchase is a stroke on that canvas, helping us define who we are and how we want to be seen by the world. It's a way to communicate without saying a word!

FOMO Strikes Again

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a real phenomenon, my friends. Scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, we are bombarded with images of beautifully designed rooms, quirky decor, and must-have gadgets. It's easy to fall into the trap of feeling like we're missing out on something amazing if we don't have that latest trendy item. Overshopping becomes a way to alleviate that FOMO and keep up with the ever-changing trends.

Emotional Comfort

Let's not forget that retail therapy is a thing. Life can get stressful, and sometimes, a little retail therapy is just what we need to lift our spirits. That cozy throw blanket or that cute succulent might provide temporary solace from the challenges we face. But it's essential to recognize when shopping becomes an unhealthy coping mechanism, and seek healthier alternatives for emotional support.

Now that we've peeled back the layers and unearthed the reasons behind overshopping, what can we do about it? Here are some tips to help you develop a healthier relationship with shopping:

Reflect and Recognize

Take a moment to reflect on your shopping habits. Are you shopping out of necessity or for emotional reasons? Becoming aware of the underlying motivations behind your purchases can help you make more mindful decisions.

Set Budgets and Goals

Define your shopping goals and establish a budget. By setting limits, you can control your spending and avoid unnecessary purchases. Plus, having a goal in mind gives you something to work towards, so you're not just buying for the sake of it.

Curate, Don't Accumulate

Embrace the power of curation. Instead of mindlessly accumulating items, focus on curating a space that truly reflects who you are. This way, each purchase will have more meaning and purpose.

Seek Experiences Over Possessions

Shift your focus from acquiring things to experiencing life. Instead of buying another decorative item, consider investing in experiences that create lasting memories. Go on a road trip, attend a concert, or take up a new hobby. These experiences will bring you more fulfillment in the long run.

Connect with Like-minded Individuals

Surround yourself with a community of individuals who share similar interests but also value mindful consumption. By engaging with others who appreciate the aesthetics and trends, you can find support and alternative ways to enjoy your passion without going overboard.

Remember, over-shopping is just a symptom, not a defining characteristic. By understanding the reasons behind it and taking proactive steps, we can strike a balance between enjoying trends and expressing ourselves without drowning in unnecessary clutter. Happy curating!

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