Emotionally grounded shoppers refuse to waste money on these eight hyped items—see if you still snag any.
We live in a world that constantly pushes us to want more, buy more, and be more. Everywhere we turn, there are shiny new gadgets, must-have accessories, and the latest fashion trends vying for our attention—and our wallets.
But how many of these items do we really need? Or better yet, how many of them truly add value to our lives?
If you've ever found yourself overwhelmed by the clutter in your home or the balance on your credit card statement, you're not alone.
A 2025 LendingClub survey shows over 60 % of Americans are still living paycheck to paycheck. And what's worse? Experiments indicate money worries can sap mental bandwidth as much as pulling an all-nighter.
But there's a group of people who seem to have figured it out: emotionally grounded individuals. They understand the difference between needs and wants, and they're not easily swayed by the latest trends or marketing tactics.
Ready to learn their secrets?
Let's explore the eight trendy items these emotionally grounded folks never waste their money on. Brace yourself—you might be surprised at what you find.
1. High-end smartphones
Let's start with a common culprit: the latest high-end smartphones. You know, the ones with the eye-watering price tags and features most of us will never use.
Sure, they look sleek and shiny, and there's a certain status symbol attached to owning one. But do they really add value to our lives?
Emotionally grounded people understand that a phone is, at its core, a tool. It's meant to facilitate communication, not complicate it. There's no need to upgrade every time a new model comes out—especially when the improvements are often marginal at best.
They know that what matters most isn't the gadget in their pocket but the quality of their interactions with others.
And for that, a modestly priced phone works just as well. After all, it's not the phone that makes the conversation meaningful—it's the people involved.
2. Luxury cars
A shiny, new luxury car can certainly turn heads on the street, but emotionally grounded individuals aren't interested in impressing others with their vehicles. They see a car for what it is: a means of transportation, not a status symbol.
Among 177 self-made millionaires, over half opted for used cars.
Why?
Because they understand the concept of depreciating assets. A car, especially a high-end one, starts losing its value the moment you drive it off the lot.
Instead of splurging on a luxury car, emotionally grounded people would rather invest their money in experiences, education, or assets that appreciate over time.
They know that the thrill of driving a fancy car is transient, but the benefits of wise spending decisions can last a lifetime.
3. Designer clothing
Who doesn't love the feel of a well-made piece of clothing? But do we really need to pay exorbitant prices for a designer label? Emotionally grounded individuals don't think so.
Just as with cars, they see past the allure of status symbols. They know that the value of clothing lies in its quality, comfort, and how well it suits them — not in the brand label sewn on the inside.
They're not interested in keeping up with every seasonal trend or flaunting designer logos. Instead, they opt for timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. This not only saves money but also reduces the stress and decision fatigue associated with having an overflowing wardrobe.
Remember, true style is about expressing your unique personality and feeling good in what you wear — not about impressing others with brand names.
4. Gourmet coffee
Sure, gourmet coffee can be a nice treat once in a while. But for grounded individuals, it's not a daily necessity. The cost of a daily latte or cappuccino quickly adds up, and they'd rather save or invest that money.
They understand that the pleasure derived from sipping on a fancy coffee doesn't justify the expense—especially when they can make a decent cup at home for a fraction of the cost. They value experiences over material possessions and choose to spend their money accordingly.
5. Impressive houses
A large, impressive house might seem like the ultimate status symbol. But emotionally grounded people know that a home is more than just a showcase for wealth and success.
Again, among 177 self-made millionaires. thatI mentioned above, two-thirds called their homes “modest”. That's because they understand that a home should be a place of comfort and peace — a sanctuary where they can relax and be themselves, not a showpiece to impress others.
Instead of coveting the biggest house on the block, they prioritise finding a home that suits their needs and lifestyle. They value the quality of their living environment over the quantity of square footage.
Remember, a house doesn't make a home. The love, joy, and peace within its walls do.
6. Overpriced cosmetics
The beauty industry often convinces us that we need expensive products to look and feel beautiful. But emotionally grounded individuals know that true beauty comes from within.
They're not swayed by flashy marketing or celebrity endorsements.
Instead, they choose products based on their needs and effectiveness, not their price tags or brand names.
They understand that expensive doesn't always mean better quality.
7. Latest fitness gear
Fitness trends come and go, each accompanied by a range of must-have gear and equipment. But emotionally grounded people know that getting fit doesn't require expensive gadgets or trendy outfits.
For this reason, they focus on maintaining a regular exercise routine that suits their lifestyle and preferences, instead of splurging on the latest fitness fads.
The reason is that they know that consistency and determination matter more than the brand of their yoga mat or running shoes.
5. Expensive watches
High-end watches can cost a small fortune, but do they tell time any better than a reasonably priced one?
Emotionally grounded individuals understand that the primary purpose of a watch is to tell time, not to showcase wealth or status.
While there's nothing wrong with appreciating the craftsmanship and design of luxury watches, emotionally grounded people don't feel compelled to spend exorbitant amounts on them.
They'd rather invest in items or experiences that bring genuine joy and fulfillment.
Final thoughts
As we've explored, emotionally grounded individuals prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth over material possessions.
They understand that true happiness and fulfillment don't come from the items we own, but from the way we live our lives and interact with the world around us.
In a society that often equates success and worth with material wealth, it can be liberating to step back and reassess our spending habits.
Do the things we buy truly add value to our lives or are they simply satisfying a fleeting desire for status or approval?
Remember, every dollar we spend is a vote for the kind of life we want to live.
So, let's make our votes count. Choose wisely, spend thoughtfully, and remember that the best things in life aren't things at all.
What’s Your Plant-Powered Archetype?
Ever wonder what your everyday habits say about your deeper purpose—and how they ripple out to impact the planet?
This 90-second quiz reveals the plant-powered role you’re here to play, and the tiny shift that makes it even more powerful.
12 fun questions. Instant results. Surprisingly accurate.
