6 Gems, vol 42: What to do when you want to shop

6 ways to scratch what really itches

All my dresses — I can do an 18 minute “quickie review”

One of my unsubscribers (why oh why do I ever look at these) suggested I had untreated shopping addiction. Deep breaths! I figured that instead of getting all “not me!” I’d run toward this feedback, not away. After all, my theme for 2025 is “get curious.”

This week I did my very first session in a program I’m taking on “over shopping.” A lot of reading and journaling and an hour online group session with folks more courageous than I.

In this first bit of coursework, I noticed a lot in common with the things I’ve been working on myself. For example, a pause is key to build in distance and deactivate the easy-on pathway to shopping that you create when the shopping touches something in your past and then feels good over and over.

Anyway, I thought this week I’d pivot and bring you my six best things to do instead of shopping.

(BTW, 6 Gems is meant as a treat for my paid subs — THANK YOU. You make it possible for me to be here. If ever there’s anything you want to see, just LMK. In fact, next week in 6 Gems I will do jewelry storage tips and a jewelry storage tour in my closet thanks to Maura’s ask.)