Gen Z and Overconsumption: Why We’re Buying More, Feeling Less, and Calling It “Self-Care”

Let’s be honest for a second. We say “I’m healing”, “I deserve this”, “It’s just one small purchase” and suddenly our carts are full, bank balance is crying, and we’re still not happy.

Welcome to Gen Z’s overconsumption era. It’s not just about shopping anymore. It’s about filling emotional gaps with material things — and doing it very aesthetically.

What Is Overconsumption (In Simple Words)?

Overconsumption is when we:

• Buy things we don’t really need

• Consume content endlessly

• Upgrade constantly even when nothing is broken

• Shop for dopamine, not necessity

And Gen Z? We’re deep into it — knowingly or unknowingly.

Social Media Is the Biggest Trigger

Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts — they’ve turned buying into entertainment.

Every scroll shows:

• “That girl” morning routines

• Amazon haul videos

• Skincare shelves worth ₹20k

• Minimalism aesthetics (ironically expensive)

And suddenly, your normal life feels incomplete.

Not because it is — but because comparison is working overtime.

Why Gen Z Overconsumes Even When Money Is Tight

Here’s the irony:

• High inflation

• Unstable jobs

• Side hustles just to survive

Yet, spending is constant.

Why?

• “Kal ka kya bharosa” mindset

• Fear of missing out (FOMO)

• YOLO culture

• Constant exposure to aspirational lifestyles

Saving feels boring.Spending feels like living.

 Final Thoughts

Gen Z didn’t invent overconsumption.We inherited it — with faster internet, smarter ads, and constant pressure to keep up.

The goal isn’t to stop enjoying life. It’s to stop using shopping as a substitute for meaning.

Because stuff fills rooms.Not voids.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

What is overconsumption among Gen Z?

Overconsumption among Gen Z refers to excessive buying and content consumption driven by social media influence, emotional spending, and lifestyle pressure.

Why does Gen Z spend so much despite financial stress?

Due to FOMO, emotional coping, instant gratification culture, and uncertainty about the future, spending often feels like the only control.

Is social media responsible for Gen Z overconsumption?

Largely yes. Influencer culture, haul videos, and aspirational content normalize constant buying and comparison.