Why is it so hard to stop shopping using Paylater? This is the Psychological Explanation
Admit it, who every time they open Shopee or Tokopedia immediately thinks, "Ah, just pay later"? I... See more
Why is it so hard to stop shopping using Paylater? This is the Psychological Explanation
Admit it, who every time they open Shopee or Tokopedia immediately thinks, "Ah, just pay later"? Initially it was just for fun because the limit was 500 thousand. Eh, I can't believe I've already bought 3 million and every 25th I'm anxiously waiting for the bill. How come it's so hard to brake?
It turns out it's not your fault. Our brains are really easily trapped by the PayLater system. There are 4 psychological reasons why once you use PayLater, it's difficult to return to the straight path.
1. There is no 'pain' when paying
Research says, when we pay with cash, the brain feels what is called the pain of paying. There is a feeling of not wanting the money to come out. Well, paylater erases that feeling.
You checkout now, but pay next month. Your brain thinks, "Wow, it's free". Even though I'm in debt. Because you don't feel like paying, it's easy to go crazy.
2. The brain likes instant pleasure
This is called present bias. We would rather be happy now than think about the headaches in the future. Buy new clothes now = dopamine rise. Pay the bill in 30 days = later business.
The problem is, “future you” is you too. In the end, the salary just rides by to pay the installments.
3. Limit = Surprise Money
When given a payout limit of 8 million, the brain immediately frames it as "extra money". Even though that's the debt ceiling. Plus the notification "Congratulations! Your limit has increased to 10 million" makes us feel like we've won the lottery.
Finally used it. Because it's a shame that the limit is idle. Very classic.
4. FOMO + Flash Sale Timer = Deadly Combo
90% discount remaining 1 hour left. Only 2 left in stock. If you're waiting for payday, it's running out. Paylater immediately called out, "Here, I'll bail out first."
You get the item now, you get the dopamine, the FOMO is gone. The pay? Yes, later. This is what makes paylater difficult to resist when your eyes are hungry.
So how do you repent from Paylater?
Relax, you don't have to go to extremes and immediately close your account. Try these steps to let it go slowly:
Freeze your limit - Some applications can reduce the limit to 0. Or just uninstall it first so you don't get pressed.
72 hour rule - Add to cart, wait 3 days. If 3 days have passed and you still really need it, just buy using debit.
Create a 'snacks' post - Determine your snacks budget from the beginning of the month. If it's finished, then checkout fast.
Total all bills - Open all paylater applications, total the debt. Guaranteed to be immediately shocked and converted.
Paylater is like fire. Small is a friend, big is an enemy. Used for urgent needs, really good. But if you're making clothes allowances every week, just get ready to spend a lot of money on your wallet.
Want to learn how to manage your money so you don't keep digging holes and closing holes? There are lots of practical financial tips that you can read on Zoyalink. Not bad for upgrading your financial literacy so you don't get trapped in consumer debt.
The point is, before you swipe paylater, ask first: do you need it or do you just want it? If the answer is "I want to", it's better to take a breath first. Your future wallet will bow down in gratitude.
Updated 23 day ago
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Why is it so hard to stop shopping using Paylater? This is the Psychological Explanation
Admit it, who every time they open Shopee or Tokopedia immediately thinks, "Ah, just pay later"? I... See more
Admit it, who every time they open Shopee or Tokopedia immediately thinks, "Ah, just pay later"? I... See more
