Overconsumption, Overexposure, Overspending. I’m Over It.
Guest Blog post by Rachael Aluko
TikTok Shop Influencers screaming “RUN DON’T WALK” for the latest tracksuit or £4 polyester crop-top.
A new pair of trending trainers every other day.
Apple launching a new product every 4 months, with fewer than 4 changes from the last model.
Our overexposure to the never-ending ‘NEW’ and latest products, and our desire to base our self-worth on material possessions is driving us into the rat-race of overconsumption and overspending. If you find yourself asking “where did my money go?”, at the end of every month, buying unneeded products just because your favourite influencer recommended a gifted item, or opening your wardrobe to find it bursting at the seams but still feeling like you have nothing to wear, it’s time for a reset.
Connecting the Dots
Overspending often stems from emotions. Feeling sad? Retail Therapy. Feeling happy? Retail Therapy. Feeling somewhere in-between? Retail Therapy. While shopping can feel like a quick fix, it often has long-term financial consequences. Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) schemes have gained some serious popularity amongst us millennials and Gen Z, yet a third of adults are reported to have no or less than £1,000 in savings. This cycle shows we have lost control over our financial decisions.
Let’s not forget about the global impact our overconsumption has! Fast fashion contributes to significant social and environment issues, including poor working conditions and neocolonial practices. So the next time you’re tempted to buy yet another pair of £4.79 tortoise-shell sunglasses or an unnecessary £12 jogging bottom, think about the person who made them and the waste they’ll eventually create when you find yourself pacing to the next trend. And no you’re not off the hook if you think giving your unwanted items to the charity shop 6 months later makes you a saint – especially when it’s just in the name of decluttering your home rather than supporting the cause of the charity. Did you know that 70% of charity donations end up being exported overseas due to lack of quality or demand which then ends up in landfill.But hey, as long as it’s not on our doorstep, right? WRONG. We ALL have a responsibility for treating our planet and each other better, not just those beastly corporations.
Taking Accountability
So how can we hold ourselves more accountable in 2025 and beyond? Here are FIVE practical ways to break free from the cycle of overconsumption, overexposure and overspending.
- Reflect on Your Spending Habits
Before making a purchase, ask yourself why. Are you shopping out of habit, emotion, or necessity? Understanding your intentions can help break harmful spending patterns. If you’re not sure where your weaknesses lie, reviewing your last 3 months of spending can reveal important patterns. My Track & Thrive Budgeting Tool can make this easy, with features that help you track your spending habits and spot trends over time.
- Create and Stick to a Budget
Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Treating yourself is okay, but not at the expense of essential living costs, debt repayments, or saving goals.
- Shop Your Closet
Take stock of your wardrobe and remind yourself of what you already own. You might rediscover forgotten pieces and avoid unnecessary purchases. Clutter isn’t cute.
- Declutter Your Social Media
Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate or push excessive consumption. Instead, follow influencers who inspire meaningful habits (like me!)
- Learn About the Impacts of Your Consumption
Educate yourself about the financial, social and environmental impacts of your consumption. Awareness can lead to more mindful decisions.
BONUS: Embrace a No Spend Challenge
Try a “no-spend” week or month where you only buy essentials. Focus on quality over quantity and celebrate progress.
Final Thoughts
Taking control of your spending habits isn’t just about saving money – it’s about aligning our actions with our values. By reflecting on why you spend, setting boundaries, and making mindful choices, you can break free from the cycle of overconsumption and start living with intention. Let’s make 2025 the year we prioritize financial and social well-being over fleeting trends.
Stay Connected
I’d love to hear what you think! Let’s keep the conversation going on TikTok and Instagram @financeisfunwithrach.
Follow for more tips on financial wellness and mindful spending.
And don’t forget to check out my Etsy shop for fun budgeting tools to help you on your journey. Let’s build better habits together!