Experts Urge 24-Hour Rule Among 5 Steps to Curb Impulse Spending
Updated
Updated · RNZ · Jul 31
Experts Urge 24-Hour Rule Among 5 Steps to Curb Impulse Spending
3 articles · Updated · RNZ · Jul 31
Summary
Five expert-backed rules target impulse spending by adding friction to purchases, including keeping an urge log, using mindfulness and waiting 24 hours before buying non-essentials.
Jonathan David and Lea Clothier say impulse shopping often serves as short-term emotional relief during financial, job or family stress, even when people know it worsens their money problems.
Retail tactics such as limited-time offers, personalised ads and one-click checkout intensify that cycle, while constant exposure to curated lifestyles can distort what people think they need.
The remaining advice focuses on matching spending to five core values and leaving room for guilt-free discretionary joy, rather than trying to eliminate all non-essential purchases.
For purchases people regret, the experts recommend analysing the trigger first, then returning or donating the item if possible and replacing shopping rewards with non-shopping activities.