Author name: Olivia Trent

Mindset

The Psychology of Spending: Why We Buy Things We Don’t Need (and How to Stop)

We’ve all done it — bought something we didn’t really need, justified it as a “treat”, and felt a small sting of regret later. Whether it’s a sale that’s “too good to miss” or the thrill of unboxing something new, impulse spending is deeply human.

But why do we do it? And more importantly, how can we stop?

This post explores the psychology of spending — what drives our buying habits, how retailers take advantage of them, and how to take back control of your wallet and mindset.

🧩 1. The Emotional Side of Spending

Spending isn’t just about money — it’s about emotion.
We buy things to feel better, to reward ourselves, or to fill a void. In many cases, the purchase is less about the item itself and more about what it represents: comfort, achievement, status, or escape.

Common emotional triggers include:

  • Stress or anxiety – “I deserve something nice.”

  • Boredom – shopping for entertainment.

  • Low mood – buying to feel a temporary sense of control.

  • Social pressure – wanting to keep up with friends or influencers.

The problem? These quick bursts of dopamine fade fast — but the financial impact lingers.

💬 2. Marketing: The Art

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Lifestyle

Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money at Home

Living sustainably isn’t just good for the planet — it’s brilliant for your wallet, too. By cutting waste, reusing what you already have, and making your home more energy-efficient, you can save hundreds of pounds a year while reducing your environmental footprint.

Here’s how to live greener and spend less, with easy eco-friendly changes that actually make a difference — all tailored for life in the UK.

Taking out a loan of up to £5,000 can be a smart option when used wisely. It can help you cover essential expenses, consolidate higher-interest debts, or fund important purchases without draining your savings. With fixed repayments and manageable terms, a small loan such as those from Pounds to Pocket offers flexibility, predictability, and the chance to improve your credit score — provided you borrow responsibly and budget carefully.

💡 1. Save Energy, Save Money

Energy bills are one of the biggest household costs, so small efficiency improvements can lead to huge savings.

Try these practical steps:

  • Switch to LED bulbs: They last longer and use up to 80% less energy than traditional ones.

  • Unplug idle devices: TVs, chargers, and microwaves draw power even when not in use.

  • Use your thermostat smartly: Reducing

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Career

How to Ask for a Pay Rise in the UK (and Actually Get It)

Talking about money can be awkward — especially when it’s with your boss. But if you’ve been working hard, taking on more responsibility, or delivering results that go beyond your job description, it’s perfectly fair to ask for a pay rise.

In fact, knowing how to advocate for your worth is one of the most powerful career and financial skills you can develop. This guide walks you through how to prepare, ask confidently, and negotiate effectively — all within a UK workplace context.

💡 1. Know When It’s the Right Time

Timing matters almost as much as what you say. A few ideal moments to ask for a pay rise include:

  • After a strong performance review

  • When you’ve taken on new duties or projects

  • Once you’ve been in your role for 12 months or more

  • When your company or department is performing well financially

Avoid asking right after company cutbacks, redundancies, or poor performance reports. Pick your moment strategically — when your value is clear and the mood is positive.

📊 2. Research Your Market Value

Before you start the conversation, you need to know what people in similar roles are earning. This helps you make a fact-based case…

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