It’s the kind of confession that makes people laugh and then rethink their own spending.

“One of mine is, if alcohol passes my lips, I cannot add to cart for 24 hours,” says financial educator and author Melissa Browne.

The revelation, made in the new 7NEWS Money Talks podcast powered by Vanguard , is part of Browne’s surprising list of behavioural hacks designed to help Australians rein in impulse spending and reset their financial habits.

It’s not a joke.

It’s her self-imposed rule designed to stop late-night online shopping after a glass of wine.

“Because let’s be honest,” she laughs, “once that sauv blanc hits, so does the dopamine. And suddenly, that $180 linen shirt feels essential.”

Browne knows impulsive spending is a symptom of something deeper.

“Our world’s been design

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