Nothing beats that post-purchase rush – except, perhaps, the post-purchase panic. From Cloud Nine one minute to the depths of “I regret everything!” the next. What gives? Your brain’s reward center lights up when you spend money, pumping out a chemical that makes you crave more.
Knowledge is power, so let Timberwood Bank help you understand your brain before it busts your wallet.
The role of advertising
Advertisers and marketers are pros at sabotaging your brain by making it laser-in on potent desires and fears:
- The desire for health and well-being
- The fear of physical harm
- The desire to be loved
- The fear of financial loss
- The desire for recognition
- The desire to look the best
Our brain is warped into thinking we need have our desires and fears satisfied like the people in the ads we consume. Our quest for perfection fuels a mad case of “Keep up with the Joneses” syndrome.
Immediate gratification and impulse shopping
This compulsive need to always have the best thing creates a need for immediate gratification, which can lead to impulse shopping, or shopping without thinking of future repercussions. When you purchase a $300 TV because your friend just got one, you no longer have that $300 to spend on important things like food, gas or rent. This can lead to higher credit card use and rampant credit card debt.
How to outsmart your pesky, irresponsible brain
Here are a few ways you can overcome the overpowering chemical reactions in your brain that make you want to go out and blow your budget on things you don’t truly need:
- Never go shopping in a foul mood (sad, angry, depressed, etc.)
- Ask the following questions:
- Will I really use what I’m buying?
- Can I get this product or service for less somewhere less?
- Why am I purchasing this item?
- Can I actually afford this product or service?
- Was this need real before I saw it on the shelf, in a commercial, or on the airwaves?
It may be wired to feel good when you let the cash flow, but reign in your brain with a good dose of self-restraint and smart planning. Timberwood Bank is here to make sure your financial strategy is stronger than any chemical boost could ever be. Call or stop by Timberwood Bank for planning and product advisory today!
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