How to Stop Spending So Much Damn Money Part I: The Neuroscience of Spending

Need to stop spending so much damn money?   I got you.   A lot of us are feeling that way, especially given the current economic situation.   This episode is Part I in a multi-part series focused on "How to Stop Spending So Much Damn Money." In this episode, we're talking about the neuroscience of spending.   I talk about how the brain's reward center (nucleus accumbens) releases dopamine in anticipation of purchases, how the pain center (insula) can register discomfort around high prices, and how the prefrontal cortex supports planning and impulse control.   Consumer systems and frictionless technology are designed to trigger reward and bypass "pain," reducing our ability to slow down the cycle of spending--have you ever had that: "I feel like I'm on autopilot" feeling? Where you're spending money and you don't even realize it? That's the frictionless system at work.   In this episode, we'll build awareness rather than immediate behavior change: instead of making any changes, we're just going to be aware--taking a pause during ads, social media, or online shopping to notice what our brains are doing and how we're feeling when we want to spend money, when we feel that itch or internal tug to buy. That awareness will help us change behavior.    *** Note: Information in this podcast 1) is informational/educational in nature; 2) does not constitute financial or personal advice of any kind; 3) is never a substitute for clinical care from a health professional. Check out my FREE Mini Course:  "Know Where the Money Is Going" to help you get back into the driver's seat with your monthly spending.  Find more ways to work with me, download free resources, and join my e-mail list at maureen-paley.com. Financial Autonomy for Women 30-Day Workbook now available on Amazon. 20% off the E-book when you buy directly from me. Daily Money Affirmations for Women Entrepreneurs now available on Amazon. Follow me on IG @maureenpaleycoach. Visit my Etsy shop for financial trackers and resume and cover letter templates.