Why You Overspend (And What It Has to Do With the Planet)

We always say: “I deserve this.” “Retail therapy lang.” “One small purchase won’t hurt.” But what if our spending habits are telling a deeper story? In this episode of The 17, we talk about United Nations SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — but in a more personal and human way. This is not about becoming minimalist overnight. This is not about shaming people for buying nice things. This is about understanding: why we keep consuming emotional spending and validation overconsumption culture impulse buying habits sustainability in everyday life and how ambition can still exist without excess As someone who also struggled with impulse purchases, overflowing closets, and the feeling of “I have nothing to wear” despite having too much, this episode became a very honest conversation with myself too. Because maybe sustainability isn’t just about saving the planet. Maybe it’s also about learning how to stop abandoning ourselves through constant consumption. ✨ If you’re ambitious but trying to build a life that feels lighter, healthier, and more intentional — this channel is for you. 🌱 ABOUT THE SERIES: “THE 17” A series where we explain the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in a more human, relatable, and practical way. 🎥 New videos every week on sustainability, ambition, work, growth, and life. 📌 Subscribe for more conversations on sustainable ambition. 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - What are the SDGs? 1:42 - Who Am I? 2:40 - The Lesson: SD12 5:43 - Three Questions That Helped Me 6:44 - Why This Matters 8:21 - Outro