Anne is addicted to Action: ‘They call out to me. They really do’
Some people are addicted to gambling. To alcohol or sleeping pills. But Anne is addicted to Action. It’s even gotten so bad that she can barely get into her own house anymore. How did it get this far? ‘It sucks me in.’
Anne: ‘You know… it always starts so innocently. You need a pack of batteries. Just batteries. But before you know it, you’re standing there… by the shelves. And then you feel it. That attraction. The smell of cheap plastic storage bins, those flashing discount signs… They call out to me. They really do.
They might come in handy, right?
I mean, what’s wrong with batteries? Nothing, right? But then I see those little candles. Three for one euro fifty! And I think: “How romantic, candles.” Not that I ever light candles. But hey, they might come in handy, right? For a blackout or something. And then… then there’s the arts and crafts aisle. I never craft. Never! But there it is: a glitter kit. For €2.29. Gift ribbons in different colours. An easel. An acrylic paint set. And suddenly I think: “Maybe I’ll become someone who crafts. A creative type who makes things!”
Apfelstrudel all-purpose cleaner
Before I know it, I’m in the household section. Discounted detergent, handy. And a mint-green dustpan and brush! My old one still works perfectly, but this one is much more fun. And at that price, I’m not leaving it behind. And then I spot a bonbonnière out of the corner of my eye. For less than four euros! So cute with colourful M&M’s in it from the sweets aisle—even though I don’t eat sweets. And guess what I scored yesterday? Apfelstrudel all-purpose cleaner! It leaves behind a sweet, warm scent of freshly baked apfelstrudel after every cleaning session. Wonderful, right!
And then there’s the Christmas section. Hów can they make all that stuff so cheaply? A string of lights with Christmas figures for less than two euros. A Christmas village with lighting, glass Christmas ornaments in various designs. I don’t have a tree, but I buy them anyway. Because what if I ever do have a tree?
Saving money at Action
You feel so smart. Smart because you’re “saving money.” But then you get home. You put all those things down and think: “Why? Why did I buy this?” My kitchen drawer is overflowing with silicone moulds I never use. My cupboard is full of baskets I bought because they were “handy.” Handy for what? I don’t know. I can barely get into my house anymore.
A treasure trove full of things
But I go back anyway. Every time. Because it’s not just a shop. It’s an adventure. A treasure trove full of things you didn’t know you needed. It’s the promise of possibilities. Maybe I’m buying the idea of a different life. A better life, where everything is organised and full of little lights and candles. But until that day… I’m just someone with an Action problem.
I recently deleted the Action app from my phone. Maybe next time I should only take cash with me. Or no, I’ll just stay away. Just… not go for a while. But then again, they do have that new wireless charger with a lamp.’
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Anna’s name has been changed for privacy reasons. Her real name is known to the editorial team. Would you also like to share a personal story (anonymously!)? You can email us at info@favorflav.com
