How to Stop Buying Stuff – Ultimate Guide to Controlling Your Spending

If you want to live more simply and stop buying stuff you don’t need, there are several tips that can help. In this article, we will explore strategies to avoid unnecessary purchases, curb spending habits, and overcome the urge to buy. By implementing these mindful purchasing practices, you can save money, minimize consumerism, and prevent impulse purchases.

Key Takeaways:

• Tips to reduce impulsive buying
• Strategies to avoid unnecessary purchases
• Breaking the cycle of buying
• Curbing spending habits
• Overcoming the urge to buy

Identify Your Motivation

If you want to stop buying unnecessary stuff, it’s important to understand your motivation for doing so. By identifying your reasons, you can stay focused on your goal and resist the urge to make impulsive purchases. Some common motivations for buying less include saving money, reducing clutter, living more sustainably, getting out of debt, and embracing a simpler life.

When you know why you want to buy less, you can remind yourself of your motivation when you’re tempted to make frivolous purchases. Whether it’s picturing the extra money in your savings account or visualizing a clutter-free living space, keeping your motivation in mind will help you make more intentional choices and resist the temptation to buy things you don’t truly need.

So take a moment to reflect on why you want to buy less stuff. Write down your motivations and refer back to them whenever you feel the urge to make an impulse purchase. Remember, by identifying your motivation, you are taking an important step towards regaining control over your spending and living a more fulfilling, simplified life.

Record Your Expenses

One of the most effective ways to gain control over your spending habits is to track your expenses. By recording everything you buy and how much you spend, you become more conscious of your spending patterns and can identify areas where you can cut back. This simple exercise allows you to see where your money is going and make informed decisions about what you truly need.

To track your expenses, start by creating a spreadsheet or using a budgeting app to record each purchase. Include details such as the date, item or service purchased, and the amount spent. Be diligent in documenting every expense, no matter how small.

By keeping track of your expenses, you will start to notice patterns. Perhaps you spend more on weekends or have a tendency to make impulse purchases when you’re feeling stressed. This awareness will give you valuable insights into your spending triggers and help you make conscious decisions about when and where to spend your money.

Table: Example Expense Tracking

Remember, tracking your expenses is not about judgment or restriction. It’s about gaining insight into your spending habits and making more mindful financial decisions. With this newfound awareness, you can start taking control of your spending and stop buying unnecessary stuff.

Observe Your Spending Triggers

When it comes to curbing impulsive buying and taking control of your spending, it’s important to identify your spending triggers. These triggers can be situations, emotions, or influences that lead to impulse purchases. By observing and understanding your spending triggers, you can break free from emotional buying and make more intentional purchasing decisions.

For example, you may notice that you tend to make impulsive purchases when you’re feeling stressed or bored. By recognizing these emotional triggers, you can find healthier ways to address these emotions instead of turning to shopping as a coping mechanism.

“Understanding your spending triggers is the first step towards regaining control over your finances. Take the time to reflect on your purchasing patterns and the emotions that may be driving them. By doing so, you can make more mindful choices and avoid unnecessary spending.”

Keeping a spending journal can be a helpful tool in identifying your triggers. Record your purchases and the circumstances surrounding them, noting any emotional or situational factors that may have influenced your buying decisions. By analyzing this data, you can gain valuable insights into your spending habits and take proactive steps to reduce impulsive buying.

Strategies to Avoid Emotional Buying

Once you have identified your spending triggers, you can implement strategies to avoid emotional buying. This may include creating a list of alternative activities to engage in when you feel the urge to shop, practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, or setting a waiting period before making any non-essential purchases. By interrupting the impulse to buy and addressing the underlying emotions, you can take control of your spending and make more intentional choices.

In conclusion, observing your spending triggers is crucial in overcoming emotional buying and impulse purchases. By understanding the emotions and situations that lead to impulsive buying, you can break free from the cycle of unnecessary spending and make more mindful choices. Take the time to reflect on your triggers, keep a spending journal, and implement strategies to avoid emotional buying. By doing so, you can regain control over your finances and build a healthier relationship with spending.

Notice Emotional Buying

As you embark on your journey to take control of your spending habits, it’s important to pay close attention to emotional buying. This is when your purchases are driven by emotions rather than a genuine need or desire. Emotional buying often occurs as a result of trying to avoid or cope with certain emotions, such as stress, loneliness, or boredom.

By noticing emotional buying, you can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and take steps to address the underlying emotions that may be influencing your purchasing decisions. This involves taking a moment to pause and reflect on your feelings before making a purchase. Ask yourself if the item you’re considering buying is truly necessary or if you’re using it as a temporary escape from your emotions.

Instead of relying on impulsive spending to mask your emotions, seek healthier ways to address and manage them. This could involve engaging in activities that bring you joy, connecting with loved ones, practicing self-care, or exploring hobbies that provide fulfillment. By addressing the underlying emotions driving your purchases, you can make more mindful decisions and foster a healthier relationship with money and consumerism.

Remember, it’s important to be gentle with yourself during this process. Breaking free from emotional buying takes time and self-reflection. By noticing and addressing your emotional triggers, you are taking an important step towards a more intentional and fulfilling way of living.

Do the 1 Year Test

One effective strategy for decluttering and minimizing possessions is the 1 Year Test. Take a look around your living space and identify items that you haven’t used in a year. It could be clothes, gadgets, kitchen appliances, or home decor. Consider selling or donating these items to free up space and reduce clutter. By letting go of unused items, you not only create more physical space but also eliminate the temptation to buy more stuff.

The 1 Year Test encourages intentional consumption and mindful ownership. It prompts you to reevaluate your relationship with material possessions and break free from the cycle of excessive buying. By embracing this test, you can create a living environment that is free from unnecessary clutter and filled only with the items that truly bring value and joy to your life.

Clean the Slate

One effective strategy to reduce impulsive buying and minimize marketing influence is to unsubscribe from brands. By removing yourself from their email newsletters and unsubscribing from their social media accounts, you can significantly reduce the number of sales promotions and advertisements that you are exposed to on a daily basis.

Exposure to constant marketing messages can create a sense of urgency and FOMO (fear of missing out), leading to impulsive buying. By cleaning the slate and unsubscribing from brands, you take control of what you see and focus on what truly matters to you.

“Unsubscribing from brands has been a game-changer for me. I used to be bombarded with sales promotions and impulse-buying temptations. Now, I only see what I intentionally seek out, and it has helped me break free from the cycle of buying unnecessary stuff.” – Sarah, a former impulsive buyer turned mindful consumer

Reducing exposure to sales promotions and minimizing marketing influence allows you to make more intentional purchasing decisions. It enables you to evaluate whether you truly need or want a product, rather than succumbing to the persuasive tactics of advertisers.

While unsubscribing from brands may have its drawbacks, the benefits of reducing exposure to sales promotions outweigh them for many individuals seeking to break free from impulsive buying and minimize unnecessary purchases. Take control of your digital environment and create a healthier relationship with consumerism by cleaning the slate and unsubscribing from brands.

Avoiding Online Shopping: Finding Alternative Activities and Practicing Mindfulness

In today’s digital age, online shopping has become a convenient and accessible way to make purchases. However, it can also contribute to impulsive buying and excessive screen time. To break free from the cycle of online shopping and cultivate mindful spending habits, it’s important to find alternative activities and practice mindfulness in our daily lives.

Finding Alternative Activities

Instead of spending hours browsing online stores, consider engaging in activities that fulfill you in other ways. This could involve pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or exploring outdoor activities. By redirecting your focus towards activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, you can reduce the temptation to make unnecessary purchases.

Reducing Screen Time

One of the keys to avoiding online shopping is to reduce your screen time. Set boundaries for yourself by designating specific hours for browsing online and limit the amount of time you spend on social media platforms. This will help you break free from the constant exposure to online advertisements and reduce the likelihood of making impulsive purchases.

Practicing Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for bringing awareness to our thoughts, emotions, and actions. When it comes to online shopping, practicing mindfulness involves being fully present and intentional with our purchasing decisions. Before making a purchase, take a moment to pause and ask yourself if it aligns with your values and priorities. By practicing mindfulness, you can make more informed choices and avoid buying unnecessary items.

By finding alternative activities, reducing screen time, and practicing mindfulness, you can break free from the habit of online shopping and regain control over your spending habits. Remember, mindful consumerism is about making intentional choices that align with your values and bring true value to your life.

Buy For Quality

When it comes to sustainable shopping and reducing waste, investing in durable items is essential. Instead of succumbing to the allure of fast fashion and disposable products, prioritize quality over quantity. By opting for well-made, long-lasting items, you not only minimize your environmental impact but also save money in the long run.

Investing in quality clothing, furniture, and other goods may mean buying less frequently, but it ensures that your purchases stand the test of time. Consider saving up for higher-quality items that are made to last. By shifting your mindset away from the throwaway culture, you contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce your carbon footprint.

Reducing fast fashion, in particular, is crucial for minimizing waste. Instead of buying cheap, trendy clothes that quickly fall apart, choose timeless pieces made from sustainable materials. These items not only outlast fast fashion trends but also contribute to a more ethical and environmentally conscious industry. By making thoughtful choices and investing in quality, you can make a positive impact on the planet.

By consciously buying for quality and reducing our reliance on fast fashion, we can make a significant difference in minimizing waste and promoting a more sustainable future. Let’s embrace durable items and mindful consumption as we strive for a more environmentally friendly and ethically conscious society.

Mindful Spending: Calculating the Real Cost of Your Purchases

When it comes to making purchasing decisions, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying something new. However, taking a moment to calculate the real cost of your purchases can help you make more mindful choices and avoid unnecessary spending. By relating the cost of an item to the number of hours you have to work to afford it, you gain a clearer understanding of its value. This simple practice can shift your perspective and empower you to prioritize what truly adds meaning and value to your life.

To calculate the real cost of a purchase, start by considering your hourly wage. How many hours will you need to work to earn enough money to buy the item? Take into account taxes, deductions, and any other expenses associated with your income. Once you have this figure, evaluate whether the item is worth the time and effort you will put into earning the money. This exercise encourages you to reflect on the true value of your hard-earned money and consider if there are alternative ways to fulfill your needs or desires.

By practicing mindful spending and relating the cost of purchases to your working hours, you can make more informed decisions about what truly matters to you. It helps you prioritize your financial goals, stay within your budget, and avoid impulsive buying. Remember, the real cost of a purchase is not just the dollar amount you see on the price tag; it’s the time and energy you invest in earning that money. Embracing mindful spending habits allows you to align your purchases with your values and live a more intentional, fulfilling life.

Table: Example of Calculating the Real Cost of a Purchase

In the table above, we can see how the cost of different purchases translates into the number of hours you would need to work to afford them. This exercise provokes thoughtful analysis and encourages you to evaluate whether the items are worth the time and effort you would need to invest in earning the money. By visualizing the real cost of your purchases, you can make more conscious decisions and control your spending habits.

Pause Before Buying

One effective way to avoid impulsive buying is to give yourself a pause before making a purchase. Taking 24 hours to step back and reconsider can help you evaluate whether you truly need or want the item. By delaying the decision-making process, you allow yourself time to assess whether the purchase aligns with your goals and values.

This pause can be particularly helpful when it comes to online shopping. The convenience of e-commerce can make it all too easy to click the “buy now” button without fully thinking through the consequences. By implementing a 24-hour waiting period, you can break the cycle of mindless buying and make more intentional choices.

During this pause, ask yourself questions like:

• Do I really need this item?
• Will it truly bring value to my life?
• Can I find a more affordable or sustainable alternative?

By taking the time to consider these questions, you empower yourself to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary spending.

Remember, it’s okay to take a step back and think before making a purchase. Giving yourself a pause can help you break free from the cycle of impulsive buying and make more mindful choices.

Bookmark It

If you find yourself constantly tempted to make impulsive purchases, creating a wishlist and delaying your purchases can be a helpful strategy to reduce impulsive buying. Instead of buying things on a daily basis, add them to your bookmark list and set a specific day of the week to review your list. This allows you to evaluate whether you still want to make those purchases and ensures that your buying decisions are intentional and well-considered.

By bookmarking items, you give yourself time to pause and reflect on whether the item is truly something you need or something that will bring long-term satisfaction. This practice helps eliminate emotional or impulsive buying and ensures that your purchases align with your values and priorities. It also allows you to prioritize your financial goals and avoid unnecessary spending.

Having a wishlist and delaying purchases can be especially effective when it comes to larger or more expensive items. By waiting, you give yourself an opportunity to save up and consider if the item is worth the investment. This approach encourages mindful consumption and prevents you from accumulating items that may not bring long-term value to your life.

Benefits of Creating a Wishlist and Delaying Purchases

• Reduces impulsive buying
• Promotes intentional and mindful purchasing decisions
• Helps prioritize financial goals
• Encourages reflection on whether items are truly necessary or bring long-term satisfaction
• Prevents accumulation of unnecessary items

So, before clicking that “buy now” button, add the item to your wishlist and give yourself some time to think it over. You might be surprised at how many purchases you end up reconsidering and how much money you can save by practicing delayed gratification.

“Delaying purchases and creating a wishlist has helped me make more mindful and intentional buying decisions. I used to buy things on a whim, but now I take the time to think about whether I truly need or want the item. It has saved me so much money and reduced clutter in my life.” – Sarah

Don’t Browse

When it comes to curbing impulsive buying and adopting mindful shopping habits, one effective strategy is to avoid aimless browsing. Instead of using shopping or browsing as a way to fill time or cope with boredom, it’s important to only go shopping when you have a specific item in mind. This approach helps you stay focused on what you truly need and minimizes the temptation to make unnecessary purchases.

By practicing intentional purchases, you can break free from the cycle of buying unnecessary stuff and develop a more mindful approach to consumerism. When you resist the urge to browse, you give yourself the opportunity to evaluate your spending decisions more thoughtfully, ensuring that your purchases align with your values and priorities.

Remember, mindful shopping is all about being intentional with your purchases and making choices that truly add value to your life. By avoiding aimless browsing and staying focused on what you truly need, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with shopping and make more conscious decisions about how you spend your money.

Think About the Long-Term Cost

When it comes to purchasing something, it’s important to consider the long-term cost beyond the initial expense. Take a moment to think about the ongoing expenses associated with the item. Will you need to allocate storage space for it? Does it require regular cleaning and maintenance? And most importantly, do you have a genuine need or place for it in your life? By evaluating the long-term impact of your purchases, you can make more mindful decisions and avoid bringing unnecessary clutter into your space.

By evaluating these three aspects of the long-term cost, you can make more thoughtful decisions about your purchases. Minimizing clutter not only creates a more organized and peaceful environment, but it also prevents the accumulation of unnecessary possessions. Considering the time and effort required for cleaning and maintenance helps you assess whether the item is worth the ongoing commitment. Finally, questioning if you truly have a need or place for the item ensures that your purchases align with your values and priorities.

Remember, the true cost of an item goes beyond its price tag. Take the time to think about the long-term implications before making a purchase. By doing so, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to consumption and minimize unnecessary expenses and clutter in your life.

Implement a No-Spend Week

One effective strategy to reset your financial habits and become more conscious of your spending is to implement a no-spend week. During this designated time period, you challenge yourself to refrain from spending money on non-essential items. This exercise allows you to evaluate your spending habits, identify areas where you can cut back, and gain a greater sense of control over your finances.

By committing to a no-spend week, you create an opportunity to pause and reflect on your purchasing decisions. It forces you to evaluate whether you truly need the items you typically spend money on and encourages you to find alternative ways to fulfill your needs or desires. This exercise also helps you break free from impulsive buying and encourages a more deliberate, mindful approach to spending.

During your no-spend week, focus on finding fulfillment through experiences and activities that don’t require spending money. Take advantage of free community events, explore nature, read books from your local library, or spend quality time with loved ones. By redirecting your attention away from material possessions, you may discover new sources of joy and satisfaction that don’t rely on consumerism.

Regularly implementing a no-spend week can have a significant impact on your financial well-being. It allows you to save money, reduce unnecessary purchases, and develop healthier financial habits. By consciously evaluating your spending patterns and making intentional choices about where to allocate your resources, you can achieve greater financial freedom and a more fulfilling life.

Rent Instead of Buy

One way to reduce ownership and promote sustainable consumption is by embracing the sharing economy and renting items instead of buying them. Renting allows you to access the things you need without the long-term commitment or the need for storage space. It’s a cost-effective alternative that not only saves you money but also promotes a more sustainable approach to consumption.

Whether you need tools, equipment, furniture, or even clothing for a special occasion, there are rental options available online and in your local community. Websites like Rent the Runway offer designer clothing rentals for events, while platforms like Rent-A-Tool provide access to a wide range of tools for DIY projects. You can also consider asking friends and family if they have items you can borrow or rent.

Renting instead of buying not only reduces waste but also allows you to experience a variety of products without the financial commitment. It encourages a shift from a mindset of ownership to one of accessibility and shared resources. By participating in the sharing economy, you contribute to a more sustainable and collaborative future.

By considering rental options and embracing the sharing economy, you can reduce your environmental impact, save money, and still have access to the things you need when you need them. It’s a mindful approach to consumption that promotes resourcefulness and helps break free from the cycle of unnecessary purchases.

Mend or Repair

In our throwaway culture, it’s easy to discard broken or damaged items and simply replace them with new ones. However, embracing the value of mending or repairing can not only help extend the lifespan of your possessions but also contribute to reducing waste. By learning basic DIY repair skills, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact.

Mending or repairing items allows you to give them a second life and prevent them from ending up in landfills. Whether it’s stitching up a tear in your favorite pair of jeans, fixing a broken zipper on a jacket, or repairing a damaged piece of furniture, taking the time to mend instead of buying new can make a significant difference.

Not only does mending or repairing help reduce waste, but it also allows you to develop a sense of craftsmanship and self-sufficiency. The satisfaction that comes from fixing something yourself is rewarding and empowering. Additionally, embracing repair over replacement can save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to constantly buy new items to replace broken ones.

Quotes:

“Repairing things is a declaration of independence.” – Chris Anderson

So the next time something in your home breaks, instead of immediately rushing to the store to buy a replacement, consider if it’s something you can mend or repair yourself. By embracing a culture of repair, you can play a part in reducing waste, saving money, and fostering a more sustainable way of living.

Use What You Already Have

Being resourceful and repurposing items can help minimize unnecessary purchases and reduce waste. Instead of immediately buying something new, take a moment to think about whether you can utilize something you already own. By repurposing items, you not only save money but also give new life to things that might otherwise go to waste.

For example, if you’re in need of a bookshelf, consider using wooden crates stacked together and secured with brackets. This DIY solution can provide a unique and functional bookshelf without the need to buy new furniture. Similarly, instead of purchasing new storage containers, repurpose glass jars or boxes to organize your belongings.

Repurposing items not only helps minimize the impact on the environment but also encourages creativity and resourcefulness. Explore different ways to repurpose items you already have and discover the joy of transforming them into something new and useful.

Make What You Need

If you’re looking to reduce your reliance on consumer goods and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, one of the most empowering things you can do is to make what you need. DIY projects and homemade alternatives not only allow you to save money but also give you a sense of accomplishment as you create something with your own hands.

Whether it’s crafting your own cleaning products, sewing your own clothes, or building your own furniture, the possibilities are endless. DIY projects can be both practical and fun, allowing you to customize items to suit your preferences and needs. Plus, when you make something yourself, you have full control over the materials used, promoting ethical and eco-friendly practices.

“The satisfaction of creating something with my own hands is unparalleled. Making my own skincare products has not only saved me money but also allowed me to tailor the ingredients to my specific needs.” – Sarah

Reducing Household Waste

By making what you need, you also contribute to reducing household waste. Instead of purchasing single-use items or products with excessive packaging, you can create reusable alternatives that have a longer lifespan. For example, making your own cloth napkins, beeswax wraps, or cleaning cloths can significantly reduce your reliance on disposable options.

Embracing Creativity and Self-Reliance

When you make what you need, you tap into your creativity and develop valuable skills. DIY projects can be a way to express yourself and add a personal touch to your surroundings. Additionally, by learning how to make things yourself, you become more self-reliant and less dependent on consumer goods.

• Explore online tutorials and resources for DIY projects that interest you.
• Start small and gradually take on more challenging projects as you build confidence.
• Get together with friends or join a local DIY community to share ideas and inspiration.

Remember, the journey of making what you need is as fulfilling as the end result. Enjoy the process and embrace the satisfaction of creating something meaningful and unique.

Budget Wiggle Room

Once you have gained control over your spending habits, it’s important to create a budget that allows for some flexibility. This means setting aside a specific amount of money each month for non-essential purchases. By giving yourself a budget with wiggle room, you can strike a balance between financial responsibility and occasional indulgence.

Having a budget that includes room for occasional purchases allows you to enjoy some of the things you desire without derailing your financial goals. Whether it’s treating yourself to a nice dinner, buying a new gadget, or splurging on a vacation, having a designated budget for these types of expenses can help you stay on track while still enjoying the fruits of your labor.

However, it’s important to continuously evaluate your budget to ensure that it aligns with your values and priorities. Regularly reassess your financial situation and make adjustments as needed. This will help you maintain a healthy balance between saving, investing, and occasional spending.

Benefits of Budget Wiggle Room

The key advantage of budget wiggle room is that it allows you to have more control over your finances. It eliminates the need to completely cut out all non-essential purchases, which can be unsustainable in the long run. Instead, it provides a structured approach that allows for occasional indulgences while still maintaining financial responsibility.

“Budget wiggle room enables you to strike a balance between saving for the future and enjoying the present. It ensures that your financial goals are not overly restrictive and that you have the freedom to enjoy some of life’s little pleasures.”
– Financial Expert

How to Implement Budget Wiggle Room

To create budget wiggle room, start by reviewing your current spending habits and identifying areas where you can cut back. This will help you free up some funds to allocate towards occasional purchases. Next, determine a realistic monthly budget for non-essential expenses based on your income, financial goals, and personal priorities.

Once you have established your budget, be disciplined in sticking to it. Track your expenses, monitor your progress, and make adjustments as needed. Remember to regularly evaluate your budget and reassess your priorities to ensure that it continues to align with your financial goals.

Get Rid of Amazon

When it comes to reducing online shopping and minimizing impulsive buying, one platform that often comes to mind is Amazon. While it offers convenience and a wide range of products, it can also contribute to excessive consumption and unnecessary purchases. Taking a closer look at your purchase history and evaluating the items you bought from Amazon can provide valuable insights into your spending habits.

Consider canceling your Amazon Prime account to break free from the convenience and temptations that come with it. By removing the easy access to one-click purchases and the constant exposure to recommendations, you can minimize impulsive buying and regain control over your spending. This simple step can help you be more mindful of your purchasing decisions and encourage you to think twice before adding items to your cart.

Breaking free from the convenience of Amazon doesn’t mean you have to give up online shopping altogether. Instead, explore alternative platforms that align with your values and prioritize responsible consumerism. Look for local or independent online stores that offer sustainable and ethically sourced products. By supporting these businesses, you can contribute to a more conscious and mindful shopping experience.

Getting rid of Amazon is a personal decision that can have a significant impact on your spending habits and overall well-being. Take the time to evaluate the role that Amazon plays in your life and assess whether it aligns with your goals of reducing impulsive buying and embracing mindful consumerism. Remember, breaking free from the convenience of one-click shopping can lead to a greater sense of financial freedom and a more intentional approach to your purchases.

Conclusion

By implementing mindful practices and adopting a more intentional approach to consumerism, you can overcome impulsive buying and achieve financial freedom. Taking control of your spending starts with identifying your motivations for buying less and staying focused on your goals. Record your expenses and observe your spending triggers to gain a better understanding of your habits and make informed decisions. Consider the 1 Year Test to minimize possessions and reduce clutter, and clean the slate by unsubscribing from brands and replacing browsing with other meaningful activities.

Buying for quality and considering the long-term cost will help you prioritize value over quantity. Implementing a no-spend week each month and renting instead of buying can further curb excessive purchases. Embrace the idea of mending or repairing items and using what you already have to minimize waste and maximize resourcefulness. Explore DIY projects and homemade alternatives to reduce your reliance on consumer goods. Create a budget with wiggle room, allowing for occasional purchases while staying on track with your financial goals.

Lastly, consider getting rid of Amazon, breaking free from the convenience and temptations it offers. By following these tips and adopting a mindful approach to consumerism, you can overcome impulsive buying and discover a more intentional, fulfilling way of living. Embrace mindful consumerism, prioritize what truly brings value and joy to your life, and enjoy the financial freedom that comes with conscious spending.