my shopping day!

I intended to use this day as a rest day, but it ended up being an impromptu shopping spree day/ mental workout🛍️

I've had a few things on my "to buy list," but have always found a reason to put it off.

This year I've wanted to focus on #intentional purchasing, and not just buying things to buy them.

So here are some things I purchased today & some thoughts.

🛒 ULTA

- I've been saying for weeks I want to inject caffeine into my eyes (lol), after some research I found a caggeinated eye serum. I've also had on my wish list a pair of reusable under eye patches; hopefully pairing these together will make me feel a little better.

- A re-stock of my favorite dark spot correcting serum. I do notice a difference which is why I continue to buy it.

-aquaphor chapstick because my lips have been insanely dry.

- spf spray by elf! i've been wanting to try this & i hope i like it and it not be a waste of $$$

-Spent $66

💅 NAILS

- unfortunately my ocd has manifested into a fear of toxicity, so i stopped doing one of my favorite things which is getting my nails done.

- i'm going on vacay soon and have been avoiding and fearful of getting my nails done, so getting them done was an exposure. i'm proud of myself, especially since I moved and had to go to a new place. while i feel put together, i'm still working through some anxiety.

- I got french dip which cost $50 & $10 tip.

💃PLATO'S CLOSET

- I purged a lot of my closet due to size changes, worn out clothing, and things I no longer wore.

- I knew I've been wanting to get a few tops that weren't graphic tshirts & dresses, however wasn't quick to buy since I wanted to buy second hand and intentionally.

-Much to my surprise I found 4 dresses I loved and 3 tops!! I paid $80 for all of it. While still pricey, it's definitely less than any retail store.

-Got a cute straw cap!

☕️STARBUCKS

-Thursday is bogo drinks! I order two talls & ask them to put it in a venti. I also needed a snack so got a granola bar.

-$6

🐾PETSMART

-My dog meatball was out of food so I picked up some more.

-$22 spent

Overall this day left me feeling spoiled. It's rare that I go on a little spending spree. $153 is a lot of money for "non essentials," but I'm lucky to have the privlege to splurge sometimes. OH, I also went to 5 below for some road trip snacks & small gifts for the family i'm visiting, so lets say $175 spent.

Do you guys have a hard time justifying purchases?

While I had fun, the day was exhausting due to my work in exposure/ having some decision paralysis and taking a long time in stores. Much love to all who have a hard time untangling fun/enjoyment while fighting a mind of anxious thoughts.

Thanks for sharing my day with me 🫶🏼

Till next time!

#embracevulnerability #springbreak #nails #thrifting #water #beautyfinds #ulta #dayinmylife

2024/3/22 Edited to

... Read moreYou know how it goes – sometimes a 'rest day' turns into an unexpected shopping adventure! My recent experience was exactly that, an impromptu spree that tested my commitment to intentional purchasing. It's easy to get carried away when you're out and about, but I've found a few ways to make even spontaneous shopping more mindful and budget-friendly. First, having a loose 'to buy list' in mind, even if it's just a mental one, really helps. For instance, I knew I wanted those specific "ULTA FINDS" like the caffeinated eye serum and a new SPF spray. These weren't impulse buys; they were products I'd researched and genuinely needed or wanted to try. This approach turns an "impromptu buying" moment into a planned acquisition, even if the timing is spontaneous. Another tip for budget-conscious shopping, especially during an unexpected outing, is to prioritize. My dog's "puppy food" from PetSmart was a non-negotiable need, for example. For other items, I look for places that offer great value. "PLATO'S CLOSET" was a fantastic discovery for me. I was able to find stylish dresses and tops for significantly less than retail, aligning perfectly with my goal of buying second-hand and intentionally. It’s all about getting more for your money without sacrificing quality or style. And let's not forget the mental aspect! Shopping can be a 'mental workout,' especially when dealing with decision paralysis or anxiety. My experience getting "French nails" was a big personal win, pushing past my fears. Sometimes, treating yourself to something small, like a favorite coffee or a granola bar snack, can be a form of self-care that keeps you grounded and prevents bigger, less intentional splurges. It's about finding that balance between enjoyment and thoughtful spending. I always try to reflect on my purchases afterwards. Did I truly need it? Does it add value to my life? While my shopping day totaled a bit more than I initially expected, every item, from my beauty essentials to the new clothes and my dog's food, felt justified because I approached it with intention. Even on an "impromptu shopping" day, it’s possible to make choices that feel good financially and personally. How do you manage your impromptu shopping trips?