Personal finance advice consistently emphasizes the importance of managing your spending. But what if your spending isn’t entirely up to you? More people than ever feel like they’re not in the driver’s seat when it comes to their money. Outside forces—like advertising, social pressure, and even technology—can nudge us to spend in ways we don’t expect. Recognizing the signs that outside forces control your spending is the first step to regaining your financial independence. If you’ve ever wondered why your budget keeps slipping or why you regret purchases, it’s time to look closer. Here are six clear signs your spending might not be as self-directed as you think.
