Cash isn’t purely numerical; it’s closely connected to our feelings and behavior. Studying the science of spending can reveal new pathways to monetary wellbeing and stability. Have you ever wondered why you’re tempted by bargains or find yourself driven to make impulse purchases? The answer can be found in how our brains are triggered financial triggers.
One of the core motivators of spending is the desire for quick satisfaction. When we make a wanted purchase, our psychological system releases the “feel-good” chemical, generating a fleeting sense of pleasure. Retailers capitalize on this by promoting limited-time deals or shortage-driven marketing to amplify urgency. However, being conscious of these influences can help us pause, reconsider, and choose more intentional financial choices. Developing practices like postponing purchases—waiting 24 hours before buying something—can encourage more thoughtful purchases.
Emotions such as anxiety, self-blame, and even lack of stimulation also shape our financial decisions. For instance, FOMO (fear of missing out) can drive questionable money moves, while guilt might encourage excessive purchases on financial career tokens of appreciation. By building intentionality around financial habits, we can match our money habits with our long-term goals. Monetary wellbeing isn’t just about spreadsheets—it’s about knowing our triggers and applying those learnings to make better financial decisions.