Free Advice
Do Instagram-targeted ads work a little too well on you? This week, Christina Mychas, a former self-identified shopaholic, gives us the lowdown on how to be a more mindful spender (ie how to cut down on Zara purchases).
How can you change your relationship with shopping if you’re constantly overspending?
It takes a lot of inner work, mindfulness, and reflection on how you feel while you’re shopping to identify the reason you're shopping to begin with. It often goes a lot deeper than, “Oh, I like that.” Or, “I saw that on some influencer, and I like it.” It could be boredom shopping or stress shopping. Take a step back, slow down, and figure out why you want to spend that money.
What’s your best advice for avoiding impulse buys?
Create a wish list. This is a really practical and helpful way of creating some distance from the initial wanting of the item and the buying of it. I keep a running list of potential buys in the Notes app on my phone. I give myself a minimum of 24 hours to sleep on it and allow myself to forget about it. Nine times out of 10, I forget about it.
What are your top tips for keeping yourself in check?
Save and invest first. And automate those deposits and contributions, too.
Identify what you value. If you’re getting distracted by things you want to buy, remind yourself of your financial goals.
Revisit your goals often. To make sure you're on track to actually meet them.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Money Win
“I left a job I was at for five years in January 2022 to pursue my growth professionally and financially. One year later, my salary has increased 19.8%.”
— Emily M (CO) on getting what she’s worth. Brb, job hunting.
You’re making money moves and we want to celebrate them with you. If you scored a raise, saved up for a big purchase, or reached another money goal, tell us about it here. Quotes are edited and condensed for clarity.
For the Group Chat
If you live in a major US city and WFH…
You could save thousands by skipping RTO.
Want a cheaper version of the Dyson Airwrap or a Lululemon sweatshirt?
You can find a dupe on TikTok.
The COVID-19 pandemic might be coming to an end…
And the era of nice bosses could be, too.
Still have a traditional savings account?
You could earn 1,000% more in interest by making the switch to high-yield.
Investment Piece
You work hard for your money, and we’re here to help you spend it wisely. Ahead, Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton, founder and CEO of Chillhouse, tells us about an everyday product she was willing to pay a “painful” price for.
Tell us about a recent purchase that felt like an investment.
Eyeglasses from Cutler and Gross. I debated for months because I was really cringing at the final price with lenses et al. Ultimately, I realized they were my dream eyeglasses. Timeless and effortlessly chic. My poor eyes need a major break from time to time. They LIVE in contacts. Having these actually makes me want to wear them out to dinner and give my eyes a rest.
How much did you spend on them?
They were a painful $1,300 with lenses and all the bells and whistles. The frames themselves were around $500. Eyewear is not cheap.
Why do you consider it a worthy investment?
Your eyeglasses become almost a part of your identity. So to me, it was fine to invest in "the ones." I'm not running to get a second pair anytime soon.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
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