Are You A "Spontaneous Book Buyer"

Defining the Terms: Instant and Delayed Gratification

Instant

Have you ever heard of the term "retail therapy"? It entails buying stuff to make you feel better quickly. However, we get instant gratification from purchasing a glossy new book resides in our mindset of loving new things since we were children. Our parents conditioned us because who doesn't enjoy getting a sparkling new toy? That happy feeling ingrains itself in your brain and releases dopamine, an excellent, healthy drug that is entirely addictive.

How much of it is simply browsing the bookstore/library shelf, looking at colorful covers and provocative titles to see if the back cover description piques your interest. Why do you think we do what we do? I'm intrigued!

Delayed Gratification

The definition of delayed gratification is putting off doing something enjoyable that presents itself until later to reap some benefit in the future. You will have a high sense of self-awareness and self-analysis. These are essential character traits of a person who practices delayed gratification. 

When you pick up a book and purchase it, is it generally a book you've heard a lot about and that you're friends or other readers couldn't recommend enough when you decide to read it? And, of course, you do additional research to ensure that the book's content is worth your time by reading reviews and critiques.

You may consider if you'll really need something in your life rather than just want it; living a minimalistic lifestyle may help your spending habits... But, unfortunately, this is not so useful for some of us who are constructing a library.

Purposeful Books Shelf Full of Books 

A great way to have a purposeful books shelf full of books you enjoy reading and rereading is to read the reviews beforehand. But, is this author's book capable of meeting your reading needs? Then, do a little digging before deciding this is a book I want to purchase and read.

Second, Wishlists are my preferred method of ensuring that I spend my money wisely and stay focused. Keep a list of books you want to read in your notes app on your phone. Or, use the Goodreads app. Then, you can build a "to-read" "shelf," which is often as pleasant as impulse shopping.

Enjoy the books in your collection.

If you are reading this article, you are a bibliophile. This word describes someone who loves or collects books. It comes from the Greek words for "book" and "loving."

However, the books end up in your personal library or collection. Enjoy them, read and reread them. You might enjoy that book you added to your TBR pile because you connected to the book cover? Or you did your research, read reviews, and decided this is the book for you.

It's always good to pass along cherished titles and rare editions to family and friends, and collecting books is a long but satisfying process. The Beginner's Guide to Collecting Vintage Books is an excellent guide to growing your vintage library with quality books. 

Happy reading, Pam of Reading Vintage

“Reading is a basic tool in the living of a good life.”—Joseph Addison

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