Quick Take & Executive Summary
Online retailers use social proof and FOMO—"only 3 left," "27 people viewing"—to turn maybes into impulse buys. But ask yourself: did you want it before seeing others had it? Needs keep life running; wants shouldn't incur interest. If FOMO is the only reason it's in your cart, that's a red flag. Before buying, ask whether you'd want it if nobody else did, at full price, without credit. If not, close the tab.