THE PSYCHOLOGY OF GIFT GIVING, CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Why we’re drawn to overspending at Christmas

The human nature of poor future prediction

Most people have the inability to accurately tell their situations in future. They possibly get so much carried by the present feeling, and think the same will happen tomorrow. Also, people may plan big meals of all types for Christmas dinner or lunch, but they are not accurate enough to know if all of it will be eaten. Some people may not even plan on gifts to buy, thus possibly convinced to buy what is advertised. As a result, the confusion and hurry to do a lot at ago directs you getting what was not necessary.

Overwhelming surroundings

When our environment is full of scenes and items that alter our mental processing, most individuals are likely to make wrong decisions. For instance, if you get in a supermarket filled with Christmas trees, melodies, sounds, and lights, one can acquire an ego of depletion. It means you will unlikely make rational decisions; because the marketers’ languages and overwhelming happenings in the background will make you think a bit less completely, making you spend even more that intended.

 How to combat these urges and impulses.

Commit to resist

I know it is difficult to resist the urge to do what almost everybody is doing during the Christmas holiday, but it is upon you as an individual to counter that force. I always urge my clients to practice this commitment, and making it habitual will ease it after some time. Additionally, ensure to surround yourself with people having the same interest in committing to resist.

Think about why you are buying a gift

I always tell my friends to buy gifts when they wish to. However, start by writing down where the thought of buying it originates. Knowing this can help choose better and save.

Crystal Kadir

MS, Durham University
GP

The work of a family doctor includes a wide range of clinical diversity, which requires extensive knowledge and erudition from a specialist. However, I believe that the most important thing for a family doctor is to be human because the cooperation and understanding between the doctor and the patient are crucial in ensuring successful health care. On my days off, I love being in nature. Since childhood, I have been passionate about playing chess and tennis. Whenever I have time off, I enjoy traveling around the world.

Mental health expert
MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.

Ieva Kubiliute is a psychologist and a sex and relationships advisor and a freelance writer. She's also a consultant to several health and wellness brands. While Ieva specialises in covering wellness topics ranging from fitness and nutrition, to mental wellbeing, sex and relationships and health conditions, she has written across a diverse range of lifestyle topics, including beauty and travel. Career highlights so far include: luxury spa-hopping in Spain and joining an £18k-a-year London gym. Someone’s got to do it! When she’s not typing away at her desk—or interviewing experts and case studies, Ieva winds down with yoga, a good movie and great skincare (affordable of course, there’s little she doesn’t know about budget beauty). Things that bring her endless joy: digital detoxes, oat milk lattes and long country walks (and sometimes jogs).

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