Over the past few years, our decision-making has been completely hijacked. Social media, ads, and even casual conversations are constantly influencing what we buy, wear, and even believe about ourselves. Social media has always been a hotspot for trends, but every now and then, one pops up that’s less about what to do and more about what not to do. Enter deinfluencing, the latest shift taking over TikTok and Instagram feeds everywhere.

Unlike the usual “This product is a must-have!” posts, deinfluencers are stepping up to say, “Actually, you probably don’t need that.” The #deinfluencing hashtag has already racked up over 580 million views on TikTok, so people are paying attention. The idea is simple: instead of pushing products, creators are breaking down why certain hyped-up items might not be worth your time or money. Think of those viral beauty tools or “magic” wellness products influencers rave about. Now imagine someone coming along and saying, “Tried it, wasn’t worth it. Save your cash.” Feels refreshing, right?

@chelseaspursuit Shall we talk about deinfluencing 👀 I’m here to remind you that a lot of what we see online is NOT normal. The overconsumption and the casual expensive purchases is personally what just drives me crazy. Today, give yourself a pat on the back, because you are doing great, and you are amazing, living in the normal world is pretty awesome 💗 #vancouverlife #vancouvertok #canadatok #moneytiktok #budgetingtiktok #personalfinance #financialliteracy #deinfluencing #keepingupwiththejoneses ♬ Being a Girl - Jonica

On TikTok, deinfluencing videos are everywhere. For instance, creators are spilling the tea on overpriced water bottles, high-end beauty tools, and trendy Amazon finds. Instead of glorifying these products, they’re sharing unfiltered experiences—sometimes even throwing in affordable alternatives. But here’s the twist: isn’t recommending a cheaper version still a form of influencing?

And that’s the catch. The trend of deinfluencing started as a way to push back against consumerism, but telling people what not to buy—or what to buy instead—is still influencing. Some critics argue it’s just reverse marketing. Sure, a $30 mascara might be a smarter buy than a $50 one, but at the end of the day, it’s still a pitch. What we really need is to learn how to be less influenced altogether.

We didn’t always have instant access to everything we wanted. Yet now, with a few clicks, we can buy everything in a photo. That’s wild when you think about it. This constant cycle of wanting and buying has conditioned us to believe we need it all, right now. But deinfluencing offers a chance to pause, reflect, and reclaim our control.

So, How Do You Start Deinfluencing Yourself?

It begins with awareness. When you’re scrolling through your feed, ask yourself:

• How does this content make me feel? Does it spark excitement or insecurity?

• Why do I want this product? Is it really for me, or is it because it’s trendy?

• What’s my reaction to being influenced? Notice your thoughts and feelings. Are you comparing yourself to others or feeling less satisfied with your life?

These small moments of self-check can reveal your weak spots. Maybe it’s beauty gadgets, home décor, or fitness gear. Whatever it is, becoming aware of what hooks you in can help you start making choices for yourself.

Practical Steps to Fight Back Against Influences

1. Track Your Temptations:

Write down every product or trend you’re tempted to buy for one week. At the end, review the list. How much still feels relevant or necessary?

2. Delay Impulse Buys:

Save the post or add the item to a wishlist. Wait 48 hours before deciding if it’s worth it. Most of the time, the initial excitement fades.

3. Unfollow Pressure Points:

If certain accounts constantly make you feel like you’re missing out, mute or unfollow them. Your social media should feel inspiring, not overwhelming.

4. Stick to a Budget:

Decide how much you’re willing to spend on “influenced” purchases each month. Once you hit your limit, it’s a good pause point to evaluate your spending habits.

5. Appreciate What You Have:

Practicing gratitude can help you resist the urge to chase every new trend. Remember, you don’t need to own everything that catches your eye.

But deinfluencing isn’t just about shopping habits; it’s about the bigger picture. Overconsumption isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a global one. By encouraging people to buy less, deinfluencing can contribute to reducing waste and making more sustainable choices. It’s not about rejecting trends altogether but choosing the ones that align with your values.

And let’s not forget: it’s not our fault we got here. Social media and marketing are designed to hook us. But we can take small steps to break free. Examining the content we consume and questioning its impact is a powerful start.

Ultimately, the goal isn’t to live in a bubble where we’re never influenced. It’s to approach the world more thoughtfully. We can scroll through social media without feeling the need to act on everything we see. So the next time you feel that itch to buy, take a breath. Remember, you don’t have to keep up with anyone. Sometimes, the best choice is simply to appreciate where you are and what you already have.

In a world that constantly tells us to want more, deinfluencing is a breath of fresh air. It’s not about buying nothing—it’s about buying what truly matters to you. As the saying goes,

“Maybe less really is more.”