When filming this IG reel, I noticed that many people using that voice wrote something like: “when I meet someone who loves shopping at Target as much as I do, …”. And I had also observed this obsession with Target somewhere else (on Instagram) on multiple occasions.
So when I was thinking about the caption for my IG reel, I googled “Why are people obsessed with Target?”
And sure enough, it totally is a thing.
What It Is
The “Target Effect” even has an entry in the Urban Dictionary. It says:
The result of going into a store, intending to buy a few things, and leaving with much more. Frequently happens while shopping at Target.
Person 1 before shopping: Ok, we’re just going for a few grocery items
Person 1 afterwards: I don’t know where to store my new kitchen set, plastic bins, or towel rack. Why do I have so much food?
Person 2: That is what we call the target effect.
In an NBC article, psychologist Kevin Chapman explains the “Target Effect” and why people just can’t buy only one thing at Target. Definitely give the article a read, but below I summarized some key points for you.
Negative Side Effects
Negative side effects of (over-)shopping at Target can be:
- Unintended overspending.
- Wreaking havoc on personal finances leading to money stress.
- A cluttered home (added by me).
How It Works
You might wonder, how does the Target Effect work? Why is it that you tend to overshop when you step foot into the store? Here is why:
- In short: it just feels good to be in Target (lighting, bright colors, etc.).
- You have a good time / spend more time in-store which is conducive to buying (more).
- Things are placed in strategic places to boost cross-selling.
- They employ “psychological pricing”.
How To Overcome It
Now if you’ve fallen prey to the Target Effect and you wonder what to do to overcome it, here are some strategies:
- Stick to a strict budget or shopping list.
- Don’t visit the store.
- Give yourself a pep talk before going.
- Use disputing questions before buying (e.g., ask yourself if you really need or just want the item.)
- Exposure therapy (Take a companion with you and intend to just buy one item. Purchase the item, flee the store, and after the fact, process how you feel emotionally after. If you didn’t buy the X, did the sky fall? Then ask yourself ‘what did I learn?’ You’ll learn that you can go to Target and buy one thing. It forms a new association in your brain.)
Have YOU experienced the Target Effect? Leave me a comment on my IG reel.
(Lisa Tselebidis is a professional organizer and KonMari certified consultant offering in-home services in the NYC, New York-area as well as virtual services worldwide. Get in touch with her here.)
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