Are You Healing or Just Shopping?
You’re scrolling on TikTok at 2 AM when a creator hits you with a “Treat your inner child; they deserve it!”
Next thing you know, you’re justifying that ₱3,000 Shopee cart filled with plushies, snacks, and maybe even a Tamagotchi.
The caption? “Healing is expensive, but my inner child deserves it.”
Sound familiar? Don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Healing your inner child is an awesome concept, but let’s not confuse it with retail therapy on steroids.
Spoiler alert: your future self might not be as thrilled with the receipts piling up as you think.
So, how do you balance self-care vibes without going broke? Let’s break it down.
Why Are We Spending Like This?
Let’s be real: spending feels good. Whether it’s unboxing a childhood toy or snagging that limited-edition Hello Kitty tote, there’s a rush of nostalgia and serotonin that hits hard.
Here’s why this trend is resonating so much:
- Nostalgia = Pure Marketing Gold
Brands know what they’re doing. From re-releasing childhood favorites (looking at you, Polaroid cameras) to slapping cartoons from the ‘90s onto everything, they’re pulling at our heartstrings—and our wallets. - Social Media FOMO
Instagram and TikTok are basically one giant ad disguised as “self-care inspiration.” It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind if you’re not posting your #InnerChildHealing haul. - The Emotional Void
Let’s get deep for a sec: spending sometimes feels like a shortcut to filling unmet needs. But here’s the tea—stuff can’t replace what your inner child really wants (love, safety, maybe a nap?).
Are You Actually Healing or Just Splurging?
Here are some signs you might be using “inner child healing” as an excuse for impulse spending:
- You find yourself saying, “I always wanted this as a kid; I have to buy it.”
- The dopamine from shopping is quickly replaced by guilt (and maybe a declined card).
- Bills? Savings? They’ve been pushed to the back burner because “self-care” comes first.
- You’re shopping because you’re stressed, bored, or influenced by social media—not because you truly need or even want the item.
Let’s check ourselves. Ask:
- “Will this actually make me feel better long-term, or just for five minutes?”
- “Am I buying this for my happiness or because it looks cool in an IG story?”
Let’s Talk About the Cost (Because It’s More Than Pesos)
Okay, let’s do some quick math.
Imagine you’re spending ₱2,500 a month on “inner child” stuff—snacks, collectibles, merch.
That’s ₱30,000 a year!
Now imagine using that money for something your future self would actually high-five you for, like:
- A new laptop for freelancing.
- Starting an investment fund (yes, you’re never too young).
- A trip to Japan to live out your anime dreams IRL.
Also, let’s not forget the emotional hangover. Guilt from overspending is real, and it can totally mess with your mental health.
Healing is about feeling good—not spiraling into regret after opening a package.
Here’s How to Heal Without Hurting Your Wallet
Let’s make this clear: You can honor your inner child without emptying your GCash.
Here’s how:
1. Set a “Fun Budget”
Think of it as your happy spending allowance. Maybe it’s ₱500 a month or ₱1,000—whatever works for your goals.
This lets you indulge guilt-free, knowing you’ve set boundaries.
2. Find Low-Cost Ways to Heal
Who says you need to spend big to feel good? Try these:
- Watch your favorite childhood cartoons (free on YouTube, hello!).
- Bake your favorite childhood merienda (homemade banana cue, anyone?).
- DIY your own crafts or mini projects—your younger self would love it.
- Go to a thrift shop and find nostalgic gems for a fraction of the price.
3. Ask Yourself the Big Questions
Before checking out, pause and ask:
- “Is this fulfilling a need or just feeding my boredom?”
- “Will my future self be okay with this?”
- “Can I buy this without dipping into my savings?”
4. Invest in Real Emotional Healing
Sometimes what your inner child really needs isn’t stuff—it’s care. Consider journaling, joining a creative class, or even therapy.
These things might cost less than you think and offer way more lasting benefits.
Success Story: Inner Child Healing Done Right
Take Ella, for example. She used to spend her entire sweldo on toys and snacks every payday, saying it was for her “inner child.”
But after a few months of living paycheck to paycheck, she realized it wasn’t sustainable.
Now, she sets aside ₱1,000 every month for “fun spending” and uses the rest to save for her dream solo trip.
She still indulges in her childhood faves but doesn’t feel guilty anymore.
Balance = unlocked!
You Deserve Healing AND Financial Freedom
Here’s the bottom line: Your inner child deserves love, joy, and care—but so does your future self.
You don’t have to choose one over the other! It’s all about making intentional choices that honor both parts of you.
The next time TikTok tempts you to “add to cart,” pause.
Ask yourself: “Am I really healing, or just avoiding adulting?”
Healing doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and your bank account will thank you for finding smarter ways to treat yourself.
Your Challenge:
This week, do one thing for your inner child that doesn’t involve spending. Maybe that’s drawing, singing your favorite nursery rhyme, or calling your childhood bestie.
Share your experience with the hashtag #InnerChildOnABudget and tag us—we’d love to hear your story!