(And How to Outsmart Your Wallet’s Wild Behaviour)
Let us be honest. How many times have you opened your bank app, stared at the balance and muttered, “But I was just at home”? If it feels like your money disappears faster than puff-puff at a Lagos party, emotional spending might be the reason.
It is not always a dramatic N2,000,000 splurge on the latest iPhone. Often, it is those “I have had a long day” shawarma or the midnight cart additions that chip away at your finances. Here are six subtle ways you might be spending with your feelings instead of your head, and some smarter swaps that will help you keep your account happy.
1. Bad Day Equals Big Buy
You spilled palm oil on your white outfit, your ride cancelled, and your jollof plug sold out. By evening, you are deep in a shopping app trying to “treat yourself”. Retail therapy might feel good, but your balance will pay the price.
Smarter alternative: opt for your favourite snack, a quick film, or a good nap. Less drama, less debit.
2. FOMO Will Empty Your Wallet
You are scrolling through Instagram and everyone seems to be travelling, brunching, or buying luxury items. Suddenly, you feel the urge to match the vibe.
Here is the truth: social media is curated. Most people are posting their highlight reel, not their real-life budgets.
Smarter alternative: Spend according to your own goals. Financial peace is more rewarding than any photo.
3. Celebrating Every Small Win with a Splurge
You survived another hectic day in Lagos. Well done. But does it require an expensive dinner or new trainers? Probably not.
Smarter alternative: Celebrate with something thoughtful like a home-cooked meal, a chill evening indoors, or a budget-friendly outing. It still feels good, minus the guilt.
4. Boredom Plus Data Equals Debit Alert
It is past 10pm. You are idle, scrolling through that sales app and a pop-up says “Only two items left”. Next thing, your card details are in and the deed is done.
Smarter alternative: Save the item in your cart and wait 24 hours. Most of the time, you will not want it by tomorrow.
5. Hanging Out Is Costing You More Than You Realise
From bridal showers to owambes, you are always contributing, attending, and showing out. The outfits, transport and gifts quickly add up.
Smarter alternative: Re-rock your best pieces, suggest affordable hangouts, and prioritise events that truly matter. Memories are not made by how much you spent.
6. Using Spending to Cope
You are dealing with work stress, heartbreak, or family pressure. Buying something new gives you a temporary boost.
The danger is that once the excitement fades, the problem remains, and your bank account has taken the hit.
Smarter alternative: Try free ways to cope like journaling, walking, music or calling a friend. These last longer than a delivery box.
The Real Gist
Emotional spending is that sneaky friend who hypes you into spending but never contributes.
Before every purchase, ask yourself: Do I need this, or am I reacting to how I feel?
The more intentional you become, the easier it is to manage your money and build wealth.
If you are ready to start making smarter money moves, MyInvestar is here to help. Whether you are looking to grow your savings, invest for the future or track your goals, we make it simple and stress-free.
No more confused bank balances. Just better choices.
Explore smarter savings and investment options with MyInvestar today.
