- First, I deleted all promotional emails. That helped tremendously.
- The next step was to delete all shopping blog posts with the exception of YLF and the Vivienne Files. At some point I also deleted the Vivienne Files.
- The most important step was to reframe my thinking. I stopped shopping "as a hobby or entertainment." Rather than shopping/browsing, I emphasized activity over inactivity. For example, rather than shopping for hobby crafts, I practiced crafts using items I already owned. Rather than shopping for sweaters, I wore the sweaters I already owned.
I implemented these actions
prior to the coronavirus pandemic so I had an advantage over you. You face very different challenges.
Shopping/browsing might very well soothe you in these very unsettling times. So given the situation, I would take a different approach today.
If shopping/browsing does soothe and calm you, feel free to put everything that strikes your fancy in a cart. Shop to your hearts content. Plan your perfect imaginary wardrobe. You don't necessary have to buy what is in your cart. Perhaps you can wait 48 hours from the time you put something in your cart before deciding to buy? Do you think that approach might help you?