Keeping Up with the Algorithms

Hey Simplifiers,

Scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest lately? You’ve probably seen someone casually unboxing a $600 skincare fridge, rocking $1500 boots, or remodeling their apartment… in beige.

According to a new survey from Ally Bank, this pressure to “keep up” pushes Gen Z consumers into financial quicksand—racking up credit card debt and overextending themselves to match what’s trending.

Let’s break it down.

😵‍💫 The Pressure Is Real (and It’s Algorithmic)

Social media isn’t just entertainment anymore—it’s where people compare their entire lives, from their closet to their career path.

And Gen Z? Y’all are the first generation raised fully online. That means what you see isn’t just content—it feels like a standard.

🛍️ Impulse Purchases for the Aesthetic

We asked our own readers and community members how this has affected their spending habits. Here’s what we heard:

• “I bought a standing desk I didn’t need because I saw it on a productivity TikTok.”

• “I ordered an entire SHEIN cart because I didn’t want to repeat outfits.”

• “My apartment had to match Pinterest—even if it meant maxing out Afterpay.”

Sound familiar?

🔁 The “Digital Joneses” Effect

This cycle of impulsive spending and financial regret is often called “keeping up with the digital Joneses.” And it’s exhausting.

The line between wants and needs gets blurry, and so does your budget.

💸 How to Break the Scroll-Spend Cycle

Here’s how to protect your peace and your pockets:

1. Mute the Noise

Unfollow accounts that push products without value or transparency. Curate your feed like you curate your closet.

2. Use the 24-Hour Rule

See something you must have? Wait 24 hours before buying. Odds are the impulse will pass.

3. Budget the Flex

Set a monthly “flex fund” for trends or fun purchases. Spend guilt-free—but stop when it’s gone.

4. Shift the Metric

Instead of asking “Will this look good online?” ask:
“Will this feel good when the credit card bill comes?”

Final Thoughts

Gen Z isn’t “bad with money”—you’re navigating uncharted digital waters. The game has changed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t win.

Remember: real success isn’t always shared. It’s quiet, stable, and sustainable.
And no one’s going viral for that—but we’re rooting for you anyway.

Stay grounded,
C
Founder of The Simple Adult 🩶