The One Change That Worked: Overcoming Compulsive Shopping with a Simple Trick
In a Guardian Money feature published on 1 December 2025, Tam Patachako describes overcoming compulsive online shopping by adopting a simple, yet effective trick. Previously, payday would trigger a spending spree lasting about an hour, often resulting in around £90 spent on clothing, home decor, and items like weighted blankets, hairdryers, LED strip lights, and even shoes in the wrong size.
The breakthrough came with a 24-hour delay strategy: after adding items to the online basket, the shopper would wait before finalizing the purchase. If after the wait the items still seemed necessary, the purchase could go ahead; otherwise, the basket was cleared and the process restarted. This pause created space for discernment, reduced impulsive buying of unused items, and allowed the shopper to review bank statements without embarrassment.
The feature also explores the psychological backdrop, noting boredom as a major trigger and highlighting how consumer culture promotes instant gratification. Pausing before purchasing was found to be liberating, providing a sense of control. Occasional slips still occurred but became less frequent, aided by recognizing early signs of rushing. Additionally, the article touches on a childhood in poverty contributing to a heightened urge to acquire goods when money is available.
