by Tiffanie Brown, LCSW
Can we get real with each other? Social media isn’t just for catching up with friends or watching addictive and hilarious reels, social media has become a comparison trap. Even if you aren’t searching for specific items in the search bar, it’s as if the algorithm can read your mind. It seems that you spent 10 seconds too long on an ad or an influencer’s page.
And just like that, you end up down a rabbit hole of storefront upon storefront; items saved to multiple carts, spinning the wheel for 20-40% off, and free shipping with email sign-up! And for women of color navigating complex relationships with money, generational wealth gaps, and cultural expectations, it can quietly (or loudly) influence our spending in ways we don’t even realize.
So… Let’s talk about it. What is really going on with you?
Social media shows us what people want us to see: vacations, designer bags, fresh installs, rooftop brunches, and luxurious skincare hauls. The message we internalize? “If I’m not doing this, I’m going to fall off.” And before we know it, we’re swiping that card, not out of joy—but out of pressure, insecurity, or a need to “keep up.”
But here’s the truth for many of us; someone else’s curated life is not always in your financial budget. (yeah, I called you out!)
3 Ways Social Media is Messing with Your Financial Health
- Chronic comparison leads to impulsive spending. It is so easy to see someone rocking a cute fit or posting about their trip to Morocco and now you’re suddenly on Amazon or Klarna. We all deserve to treat ourselves. Self-love is important but be sure your spending is not coming from a place of “lack of.” Are you purchasing for yourself or to alleviate the thoughts around insecurity?
- Those Tik Tok ads will snatch your edges and your last 3 dollars! There is a false sense of urgency through ads and influencer marketing. The “only 3 left! Hurry, Last Chance before your cart expires!” is a psychological trick designed to trigger FOMO. Try waiting 48 hours and come back to the page. This will allow you time to think more clearly, to refocus on your budget, and to see that the discount offered was not so special. Sorry sis!
- Try detaching from shopping on social media. When we spend money online, we don’t always feel the impact immediately because it’s digital and fast.
Regaining your Power and Savings Account
- Try doing a social media audit: who are you following, how are they making me feel about my life? Maybe it’s time to unfollow.
- Pause before you check out: implement a 48-hour rule. Save it and sit on it for 2 days. Most of the time, the urge to purchase passes.
- Reconnect with your values: if you want financial freedom, does that mean more travel, owning a home, being debt free?
- Surround yourself with community: connect with people who are honest about money and can share their financial challenges too. We often assume everyone is doing better than us.
- Check your emotional spending: what am I feeling right now? Can I self soothe in other ways, such as going for a walk, going on a picnic in the park, engage in spa day at home, etc.
Ready to start your healing journey?
Feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of social media? You’re not alone. If you’re seeking support, Renewed Focus Psychology Services offers compassionate virtual therapy tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or just need someone to talk to, help is available! Schedule a consultation today!
