The book, Buyology, is subtitled, “Truth and lies about why we buy.”
If you have any interest in marketing or in understanding why you are frequently compeled to consume–this is a must read for you.
Author, Martin Lindstrom, makes the case that marketers are beginning to understand that 90% of our decisions to purchase are made at a subconscious level. Ummm, that’s a bit frightening. So how do we combat the onslaught of propaganda that propels us to purchase? We become aware. Aware of product placement in programs that subtly (or not so subtly) promotes a brand. Aware of sensory branding that uses not only printed messaging but also sight, sound, taste and smell, to prod us to buy. Aware of marketing that promises emotional satisfaction that really shouldn’t be sought from “stuff.”
In the end, we are responsible for the purchases we make. And to be responsible we have to be educated about what we’re being sold, how we’re being enticed to buy and the damaging results of living a wholesale consumeristic lifestyle.
The best thing I ever did to help combat my own Consumerican impulses is to sign up for (and donate to) ConsumerReports.org. The website is amazing, just as the magazine is. So, anytime I am wanting to purchase something I “think” will be the best thing ever! Rule of the house is can’t buy it, unless check ConsumerReports.org first. 1st thing it does is delay purchase, past impulse moments. 2nd thing is it provides honest and accurate information about the product.
Most times it may take several days to research, but it is well worth it. If the product cannot be found on CR, then I google the name plus “review” and read anything I can find from people like you and me, and other trusted sources, like cnet.com etc.
The best part is no buyers remorse! I remember that feeling. We have much more info available to us that our parents fb grandparents didn’t have. We should take advantage of them. Only thing you have to loose is time (researching and reading).
The last thing I purchased per CR recommendation was the Hoove Flair Stick Vac. This may soupnd silly but I love to vaccuum now! Its fun and easy!
http://www.consumerreports.org
Go register now, even if you don’t use it often, it’s a good organization to donate to.