Around GMA

Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican
18-year-old student arrested in Dagupan drug bust
Michelle Dee celebrates the holidays with a designer bag

Article Inside Page

Showbiz News

Buying things online can make up for your lack of control over other aspects in your life during this pandemic. Learn how to make the most out of your online shopping experience without hurting your wallet here:

Online shopping has become the new normal for many Filipinos who are still in quarantine.

Many reliable e-commerce sites have made shopping online simple, convenient, and fast.

While getting your needs online and having them shipped to your home is fun, it can also have disadvantages especially if you're trying to watch your budget.

In an episode Pera Paraan, psychiatrist Dr. Randy Dellosa mentioned that there are many root causes of impulsive online shopping.

"Since mas madaling bumili, mas marami ring tao ang nag-ho-hoard kahit hindi nila kailangan 'yung mga produkto."

"Unang una sa pandemya na ito, 'yung boredom. Kasi wala masyadong ginagawa sa bahay.

"Isa pa, coping with stress. Itong escape na ito tinatawag na online retail therapy."

Here are some tips on what to do when you're shopping more than necessary.

Don't forget what you already have

Before purchasing anything online, it's wise to go over your cart and assess whether you really need the items you're about to buy.

Chances are, you have a wardrobe of clothes you've barely worn, and probably some stuff that look like each other.

Take the time to clear out your closet and you'll be surprised at the stuff you have that you might want to use again.

pexels.com / Remember what you already have before buying anything

Wait before purchasing

If you find yourself stacking up items on your online shopping cart, at least wait for 30 minutes or more before purchasing.

Some sellers encourage buyers to buy something by bombarding their sites with sales and ads that their stocks are running out.

Don't be so quick to panic, There will always be another sale and another new product around the corner.

Delete shopping applications on your phone

Sometimes, when boredom strikes, you might mindlessly start scrolling through your shopping apps and end up buying things you don't need.

If you know you won't be needing to buy anything online soon, delete the apps from your phone and remove your saved passwords for credit or debit cards.

Avoid checking websites and social media pages selling products that might entice you to shop.

pexels.com / Think before you "add to cart"

Set a goal

Get busy with activities that don't involve spending money.

It's also better to limit your time spent browsing online to avoid temptation.

Establish a reward system for yourself for not shopping online for a specific amount of time.

Save for what really matters

Think of your long-term goals and big purchases that require saving.

Focus on having enough money to spend for a new house, a new car, or travel.

This will help you get your mind off the instant gratification you get from buying things online and make you think before you check-out your online shopping cart.

For more of the latest lifestyle news, check out GMA's Lifestyle page.