Being aware of consumerism
Hi again!
This topic is more something I came across from time to time. Actually, every time the makeup brand ColourPop Cosmetics announced its latest collection on Instagram. And this happened a lot! Please do not get me wrong. I really like the products as they are working well for me and are affordable (If you do not include the fees for international shipping, though). But it annoys me so much when it feels as they would announce a new collection every two weeks! Just by taking a look at all of the eyeshadow palettes being part of a collection, you will realize how similar they actually are. Sure, some of the shadows do vary but the essence of them is basically being another nude palette. Still, as a potential customer, my first thought always is: "What a pretty palette! I want to buy it!"
Still, thinking of how many people do buy all these new product and probably not using them as they already have so much makeup, I just feel that it is wasteful and not really responsible for a company coming out with so many products. Yet, as ColourPop is a business aiming to generate profit and obviously seeming to make a profit with this kind of selling strategy as this is not a recent development, it is not surprising anymore.
In addition, companies have mastered the technique of marketing products allegedly fulfilling a need that you are supposed to have (This is a topic for itself, I may write about in the future ;)). So it is understandable why we all often feel as if we have to constantly buy something new to keep up with the trend.
So how can we as individuals, desperately trying to keep our money together, prevent ourselves from going on the next shopping spree?. Many purchasing choices base on our mindsets. Certain thoughts can encourage you to buy something new. Just some examples:
I want to treat myself.
I am unsatisfied with my routine.
I want to improve my looks.
I had a bad day and I want to buy something new.
...
All these thoughts can be indirect incentives for you to purchase a new product. The question now is: How can I deal with it?
So speaking of myself, it helped me a lot to remind myself, every time when I wanted something new, what I already have. It surely does help to visualize the number of things you have. If I still wanted the product, I would write a list of reasons why I want to buy it. In case you still tend to buy new products regularly, I would like to encourage you to set up a monthly budget divided into different spending categories. This is also a great student tip in general!
Nevertheless, I want to remind you that you do not have to feel guilty for feeling the need to buy something new. It sure is fun and companies design their websites and apps in a way that you as a customer stay as long as possible on it and eventually buy something. (Again, another topic, I would like to talk about one day!)
Stay smart while shopping,
Na
