What do you think causes shopping addiction? If I’m never satisfied no matter how much I buy, what am I lacking?

I’m Saito, a columnist♪ Addiction… Don’t you become addicted because you keep trying to resist? In my case, I just go all in and buy whatever I want. I’m pretty prone to getting addicted… Back in high school and college, I skipped school to play pachinko and visit adult entertainment venues (is that past the statute of limitations…?). I got completely hooked, but I overdid it so much that I eventually got bored. I also got tired of Michelin-starred restaurants after going too often. Then I became obsessed with food stalls and standing bars, but I didn’t really fit in with the clientele, so I lost interest in those too. As for brands, cars, and watches, I was given plane tickets by the head offices and got to see the operations firsthand. Once I learned the production costs and saw the working conditions of the local laborers, I realized I’d simply been manipulated by marketing—and lost interest. These days, I prefer unbranded things, I don’t even wear a watch anymore, and I’ve become fine with any car. Incidentally, I’m no longer fixated on women either. Haha. As for what I’m living for, I’ve come to like things money can’t buy. (Strictly speaking, money is still necessary, of course.)

I’m Dai, a male member. I don’t have money to spare, so I allocate my budget mainly to the things that matter most to me. I suggest you try allocating your budget as well. Also, if you’re living with your parents, you have a safety net, so I don’t think your habit of wasting money will go away. If that’s the case, I think it would be a good idea to move out and try living on your own.

You still have a long way to go before you can truly learn to be content with what you have. Why not start by working hard yourself, saving up your own money, and then buying something you still want even after waiting for it? 待遇 that don’t match your circumstances, or money earned without any effort, won’t teach you anything. They just make you misunderstand your own worth, so there’s no gratitude—just like the emperor with no clothes… In the end, nothing comes of it anyway. (Oh, is this a little too timely?) Akari

What do you think causes Universe addiction? Why is it that no matter how many people you meet, you still don’t feel fulfilled? What do you feel is missing? A defeated man

I’m Kazu, a male member. Trying to fulfill something through shopping is the wrong approach. Shopping won’t truly satisfy you. What you’re missing is the realization of that fact. Once you’re able to buy the things you want without straining yourself, your shopping addiction will go away. If I had to pinpoint what’s lacking, I’d say you don’t yet have the earning power to buy what you want without stress.