Admitting that you need help is the first step to curbing any addiction, right? My credit card has been begging me to seek help for months, but I just can’t seem to stop shopping!
My routine goes a little something like this….Open Instagram, watch my favorite blogger’s Instagram “story,” spot a cute outfit or home item that I HAVE TO HAVE, swipe up, and purchase! Within seconds of opening the app, I’ve identified something that I need and it’s on the way to my house! My faux fiddle leaf fig plant, my winter coat, the bra I currently have on…you name it, it’s been an Instagram purchase!
Why is it so hard to see a beautiful image, or beautiful influencer, touting a beautiful product and scroll on by? Social media has programmed us to strive for an unobtainable level of perfection. If my daughter wears that dress or if I have that artwork hanging on my wall, will I be as chic and together as my favorite stylish mom? My brain tells me that it’s all a sham and that these influencers are behind their screens with baby food matted in their hair, wearing yesterday’s eyeliner, however, my heart tells me to follow their advice and buy the new coat at any cost!
My love hate relationship with Instagram dates back a few years. It’s my social media platform of choice for sharing family photos and keeping up with friends. I’ve discovered some of my favorite small shop brands on Instagram and never would have found them otherwise! For that I am thankful! On the downside, however, the addiction is real! If I’ve gone a few hours without logging on I find myself itching to check my favorite influencer’s feed. What are they wearing today!? What am I missing?
I think it’s healthy to take a step back and look at just how much time and mental space I’m giving Instagram in my life. Just like I create boundaries with my two year old, I know that I need to impose some boundaries on my social media habits. How could all of that time be better spent?
As a challenge to myself, I am trying to impose a no buy April. Instead of gazing at my phone, I want to focus my energy on going through our closets and putting together capsule wardrobes made up of items we already own. Spring seems like a great time to pare down our belongings and donate to those in need. Often, we get side tracked by a shiny new item and forget all of the great things we already own!
If you are a glutton for punishment like I am, here are some of my favorite local bloggers to follow along for inspiration. I apologize to your credit card ahead of time! @Purejoyhome @happilyevaafter @lauramcbrideblog
