Does Shopping Make You Happy? Insights from a Fashion Enthusiast
As a frequent buyer in the world of fashion, I've often wondered: does shopping make me truly happy? More frequently, it brings about a feeling of depression due to guilt over spending money. Today, I splurged on more clothes, but this time, I vowed it would be the last. However, as I tried on my new wardrobe, I realized that despite the countless pieces, I was still missing the perfect combination.
Cluttered Wardrobe, Limited Combinations
I currently own twenty pieces of clothing with the same color and fabric. When I attempted to mix and match, I found there were fewer combinations than I initially thought. The very loose trousers and hoodie were overly baggy to the point where my trousers could sweep the ground during a walk, and my hands could disappear into the sleeves. These items, beautiful as they were, didn't fit for casual outdoor wear. Four pieces, each with different fabrics, were too adorable to be worn frequently, so I decided to keep them for special occasions.
Out of the remaining eighteen pieces, some didn't have enough matching options. To address this, I decided to buy four more pieces in the same color and fabric as the rest. Recalculating, I now have twelve solid combinations. This time, I ensured I wouldn't wear the same outfit twice, except for three pairs of trousers, each with two matches. The act of shopping, which should have brought joy, instead left me feeling scared, questioning if this was the right decision. Am I crazy for wanting enough outfit combinations?
Technically, twelve outfits can last me for about two weeks if I wear them every other day. I genuinely love each piece, as they are cute and realistic. However, the low-quality fabric made the initial purchase a loss from the start. Still, I need them to elevate my appearance just a little bit.
Happiness Beyond Material Possessions
While shopping can temporarily bring happiness by fulfilling desires and providing a sense of excitement or satisfaction, these feelings are often short-lived. True happiness usually stems from deeper sources such as healthy relationships, personal growth, and meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. Spending on clothing can offer a temporary boost in mood, but in the long run, happiness is more enduring when cultivated through these core aspects of life.
In conclusion, while shopping can be a fulfilling and joyful activity in the moment, it is important to question the long-term effects of our purchases on our happiness and well-being. As a fashion enthusiast, I encourage you to consider the true value of your purchases and the lasting impact they might have on your life.