I’ve heard the term “shopping addict” more than I would like to admit, but I’ve never heard shopping referred to as a “hobby.” Shopping is one of those things that happens to be a necessity in the world – getting clothes, food, and just stuff in general. But, it leads to the question “is shopping a hobby?” And, in fact, yes. Shopping is a hobby and here’s why…
I’ve mentioned before that a hobby is pretty much any activity that brings joy to your life. Typically it’s also an activity you are not required to do – meaning you do it SOLELY for joy. While you don’t shop solely for joy, you can enjoy it and shop when it is not technically necessary to do so. This pretty much qualifies it as a hobby.
Still, there is a fine line between shopping as a hobby and shopping as an addiction. Mostly, it boils down to WHY you’re shopping. For example, if you’re shopping to escape your problems, it’s probably an addiction and not a hobby.
Shopping as a Hobby: The Essentials
Shopping is a very broad term, to say the least. You can go shopping for nearly anything anywhere – like a toaster on Amazon, a new shirt from Target, or that once in a while find at a thrift store that adds to your collection. And your typical shopping habits don’t necessarily count as a hobby.
Still, shopping for the perfect outfit or looking for another coffee mug to add to your collection can be considered a hobby. Did you know that some people actually get paid to shop and find specific items for others?
Even online shopping can be considered a hobby – although going store to store in person seems a lot more enjoyable and adventurous in comparison.
When Does Shopping Go “Too Far?”
The stigma around shopping comes when you start spending to “fill the void” or overspending on items that you don’t necessarily need when you can’t afford them. Mismanagement of your budget, a lack of communication with others that are involved in your household finances, or even hoarding the items back in your home can take shopping from being something you enjoy to something that’s more of an addiction…
Keeping that balance is a necessity and ensuring that you stick to what makes you happy without going overboard is the key to keeping this hobby.
Why is Shopping Fun?
Shopping releases that “feel-good” hormone also known as dopamine. We get a nice little mood boost when we buy new items – meaning not only does it make us happy, but it can help you get out of a bad mood!
Before you dive right into shopping, note that shopping does not equal spending – you can shop and enjoy it without purchasing everything in sight. Making calculated purchases can be a great part of the pursuit.
Is There a Difference Between Shopping and Thrifting?
Yes and no. Overall, thrifting is like a subcategory of shopping. Technically when you’re thrifting you’re still shopping, but you’re typically looking for secondhand items rather than brand-new items. Thrifting can still happen in person or online, making the overlap even greater.
Is shopping one of your hobbies? Let me know in the comments below!