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The paradox of internet shopping

  • Article

I've done a lot of shopping online recently. And in my usual fashion, I have been trying to figure out what's going on; why so much spending, especially online? What I realized is that internet shopping has a draw for immediate gratification junkies. I can shop now, no getting dressed, no make-up, no parking or browsing. The problem that I realized that I was running into was that, although there's the illusion of immediate gratification, you end up disappointed because you don't get your stuff quickly. So there you are, off to get another fix with another online shopping experience. Yeah, I know I could do overnight or 2 day shipping, but then I would have to admit that I have a shopping problem. I'm not ready for that.

So I have 4 outstanding orders. Just waiting for one of them to get delivered. And on some level, until the goods start rolling in, I am somewhat dissatisfied with my shopping experience. There's an adjustment I have to make. If I want it now, I have to actually shop (well, I have been doing some of that lately as well).  Online shopping is like your drug dealer giving you your first hit for free. You are drawn back for more. And frankly, that is going to make me go broke and necessitate much more purging.

Comments

  • Anonymous
    July 11, 2008
    It's a total bummer when the need for immediate gratification intersects with the realities of space and time. This sounds like a downward spiral.  Hopefully your credit cards can hold out until the first packages arrive.

  • Anonymous
    July 11, 2008
    Me too! I need a hit!

  • Anonymous
    July 11, 2008
    I can't remember the last time I bought anything from a regular store, other than groceries.  I've found it best to try to forget about your purchases, so when they do come in, it'll be a surprise, like opening a present, except with packing tape instead of wrapping paper. And if you want to avoid the long waits for merchandise, make sure you order something new every day.  That way, you'll get about one thing each day.

  • Anonymous
    July 13, 2008
    The comment has been removed