Is Retail Therapy Really the Cure for a Bad Day? An Examination of the Positive Outcomes of Buying New Shoes
- Feb 8
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 28
Retail therapy is a funny way of saying that shopping can solve life’s little problems. But is there some truth to it?
I’ve left work on my lunch break, wandered around Target, and bought things I knew I didn’t need—all because a meeting went south. Shopping, especially for a new pair of shoes, can be surprisingly relaxing and a great escape from the daily grind.
Do you know how many pairs of shoes you have in your closet? More importantly, do you remember what was going through your mind when you bought them? Out of the 16 pairs of tennis shoes I own, at least 10 were bought after a bad day.
Does shopping actually make you feel better? And can a new purchase turn your whole day around? I like to think it does for me.
Understanding the Emotional Appeal of Retail Therapy
Shopping isn’t just about acquiring new things, it’s about the thrill, the rush of happiness and sometimes even the feeling of control that comes with it. It is a way of expressing your style, of leaving the stress behind, and a quick confidence boost.
Thus, I shop when I get a promotion (I do deserve it). I have also shopped after a rough day at work (I need a pick me up). At other times, the necessity to feel something—anything at all, other than stress or frustration—is channeled into the pursuit of the ideal pair of shoes.
While retail therapy is often made fun of, for many people, there is some truth to it. I don’t think it’s inaccurate to say that buying something new—say, a really nice pair of shoes—can make you happier. Shopping is a pleasurable activity in and of itself, which triggers the brain’s reward center by releasing dopamine, the neurochemical that is linked to pleasure and satisfaction. But for me, it doesn’t end there. I just have to find the perfect outfit to go with those shoes once I discover the perfect shoes.
Having something to make you happy can take your mind off your worries and anxiety for a short time. According to a study I found on WebMD, 62 percent of people say they feel better after making a purchase of something new, especially during tough times, while 28 percent make purchases to celebrate an achievement. It’s not just a new pair of shoes, it’s so much more than that. It’s a feeling, a sense of control, a way to express yourself.
Fashion Statements and Self-Expression
Why Shoes?
Shoes are always special, the finishing touch to any look when it comes to shopping. But they’re not just accessories; they’re a way to express yourself. Your shoes make a statement about who you are, whether you're wearing sky-high heels or bold, colorful sneakers.
I’ve never really thought about what my shoe collection says about me, but one thing I do know—I own way more sneakers and slip-ons than heels. Maybe it’s because I’m a laid-back person with an earthy vibe. Or maybe it’s because I’m always on the move, which is definitely true. With three kids constantly keeping me busy, I need shoes that can keep up!
Or let’s be honest… maybe I have no idea how to walk in heels. 😆
New footwear can be a type of uplifting power to embrace. Joy can be ignited in a stylish way, enabling you to present yourself in an empowering way, even in times of uncertainty.
Feel-Good Shopping Decisions: Because Retail Therapy is Cheaper Than Actual Therapy
The Joy of In-Store Shopping vs. Clicking ‘Add to Cart’
Shopping can be an absolute thrill! The excitement of choosing the item can momentarily whisk you away from life's challenges. Striding through the stores and finally discovering that ideal pair of shoes is nothing short of amazing. It's an instant wave of satisfaction, like, yes, this was the perfect choice—no regrets, just pure joy!
How do you feel about shopping at a mall versus online? In my opinion, both are great, but I prefer the mall. It helps me to relax and to switch off from the world for a while. Shopping online can also extend to endless browsing. I like to stroll around without a rush, get a pretzel and just think.
Online shopping is convenient, without the lines, the crowds, and you can do it in your pajamas. But let’s get real, there is no equal to the thrill of shopping the traditional way.
The whole point of walking into a store is having all the options right in front of you and actually getting to touch what you’re about to buy. You can try on those perfect shoes right then and there, walk around in them, and admire them in the mirror before deciding if they’re the one. No waiting for shipping, no guessing if they’ll fit, and best of all—no frustrating "this is not what I ordered" surprises!
Then there’s the excitement of a great find—those unexpected, amazing deals. The thrill of browsing through racks, discovering hidden gems you didn’t even know you needed, and the rush that comes with it—that’s what in-person shopping is all about. Pure joy!
And who can forget the joy of walking out of a store with a shopping bag in hand, knowing you’ll get to use your purchase right away? Sure, online shopping has its perks, but nothing compares to the instant satisfaction of buying something in person. Sometimes, you just need to see it, feel it, and take it home!
Nonetheless, it's preferable to experience such a "high" with awareness. A perfect purchase can also reduce stress, but a spur-of-the-moment buy may result in regret. To increase the enjoyment of your purchase, you can also set a budget and make sure you know what the purpose of the purchase is. For instance, save up for a significant, meaningful purchase that you really want and love.
Walking Your Way to Happiness
The Therapeutic Steps to Connection
New shoes make us to venture out on new and exciting adventures and fun trips! We usually purchase a new pair when we are getting ready for a trip or when there is a special event coming up. But new shoes are not only for replacing the old ones – they are symbols of new possibilities. Whether it’s a casual walk in the park or a glamorous night out, those soles make us want to move. What is it like to enter a room in a new pair of shoes, or to go to the gym in new and stylish sneakers? Absolutely on top of the world, right? New shoes are not only good for your physical health but also for your mood!
We’ve discussed how shoes can make you a fashion superstar and gain confidence, but what about their health benefits? Just a 30-minute stroll can improve your mood. I always try to make it if I can’t wear my badass sneakers to Zumba, barre or the gym I’ll take a 30 minute walk around my neighborhood. If you are ever in a grumpy cat mood, try putting on your snazzy new sneakers and going for a walk! It can be as simple as a fresh breath of air, along with a bit of retail therapy, can sometimes feel like a spa day for the soul.
Creating a Ritual of Joy
Building a Positive Mindset Through Shopping
Retail therapy can be so beneficial when it’s made into a ritual! Set one day of each month as your ‘me day’ for shopping or for doing something that you have been desiring to do. This doesn’t have to be done alone—you can make it even more special by incorporating other self-care activities, like having your friends over for drinks or going on a solo date.
If you aren’t convinced yet, this blog is not going to be about finding the right pair of shoes and done. It’s about that precious ‘me time’ you deserve, and about prioritizing it.
How many times have you wanted to get a massage, have your hair and nails done, or simply enjoy a meal from a place you love? Probably countless times! Yet, we often overlook our own needs while constantly accommodating others.
My daughter is now at the age where she needs training bras, and with her dance classes come all the expenses that go with them. My oldest seems to grow a foot taller every time he wakes up—his pants are always too short. And my youngest? He needs more pipe cleaners for his arts and crafts.
I’ve needed new bras for almost two years, yet I keep prioritizing my kids’ needs over my own. But it’s about time Michelle takes care of Michelle! In moderation, of course.
This approach not only enhances the experience but also reinforces positive feelings about you. Anticipating your shopping day can build excitement, providing something to look forward to, particularly during tougher times.
Balancing Pleasure and Financial Health
The Burdens of Guilt: Navigating Responsibility
Shopping can also be fun, but it should be done in moderation and prudently. You wouldn’t want retail therapy to induce financial strain instead of relief. It is therefore advisable to base your habits on necessity rather than desire.
First, set a certain budget for retail therapy and try to follow it. This way, you can indulge in the feel-good activity of self-care without having to think about the costs. At the beginning of each month, determine which two self-care activities you would like to perform and then schedule the next two months to perform them.
For instance, on February 1st, you determine that a facial and a manicure are the self-care tasks you are most concerned with in March. You then come up with two days in March and assign each self-care task to a particular day. Therefore, from each paycheck in February, save a certain amount to use for these expenses. This way, you have already determined your self-care objectives in advance. When planning for March in February, it is important to note that in January, you should have already established your self-care for February.
If it is not financially possible to do this every month, then self-care can be as follows: Taking a nature walk or just watching a TV series. It is to make you feel good, not to make you feel guilty.
Identifying the Signs of Shopping Addiction
When Retail Therapy Becomes Overkill
It is very important to understand the difference between a harmless shopping spree and the pathological obsession. If one has the tendency to purchase shoes every now and then or if shopping is used as an escape from other issues then it might be necessary to look at the issues again.
I have been there myself and I got into a lot of debt thinking that I was just having a little ‘retail therapy’. I was really into it, I used to think that if I liked something and I had at least a dollar, I would buy it. I mean, I’d buy it even if I didn’t have the money.
These wild spending tendencies almost cost me my marriage. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just about shopping. I needed to know what was going on before I ended up penniless and single.
In those reflective moments, I think you should stop and ask yourself, with excitement: Do I love these purchases or I am just looking for an escape? I usually look at my buys and I am always eager to ask myself, Was it worth it? Why did I grab this before even enjoying the last one? How will I explain this to my husband? This is where you get the power to understand your shopping emotions and channel those feelings in a more productive way!
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Pair for Every Mood of Retail Therapy
Retail therapy, in the form of new shoes, can bring more than just a moment of happiness; it can be a great way to deal with happy and sad times in life. If done correctly, shopping can help improve your mood, increase your self-esteem, and be a way of articulating your personality.
First, enjoy the process of looking for the shoes that can improve your well-being. Get the ones that not only please your eyes but also make you feel good, both for your outlook and attitude.
So, if you are ever in a bad mood, you now know that a pair of stunning shoes might just be what you need!
Retail therapy can offer a quick boost, much like pouring yourself a drink after a stressful day. However, it's important to recognize that shopping for shoes—or any other items—shouldn't become a go-to solution for dealing with negative emotions. Instead of seeking temporary relief through purchases, it's valuable to find healthier ways to process and manage your feelings. While a new pair of shoes might lift your spirits momentarily, relying on shopping as a coping mechanism isn't a sustainable or healthy long-term strategy.