When Your Subscription Feels Like a Toxic Ex

Why walking away (or threatening to!) is a smart money move.

Let’s talk about subscription services.

You know the ones — the apps, platforms, and memberships that quietly take money from your account every month. The ones you signed up for in a moment of enthusiasm or need but haven’t used in weeks… or even years.

At one point, they were useful. Important, even.
But now?
They’re like an old relationship that’s run its course.

They’ve stopped giving you anything of real value. They’ve ignored you, ghosted you, and yet still expect you to pay up — month after month.
And you’ve gone along with it. Because cancelling feels like a hassle. Or maybe you think, “Well, I might need it again someday.” Or “It’s only a small amount per month”

Here’s what I want you to know:

There is a system.
And it often works in your favour — but only when you are ready to walk away.

Every time I’ve cancelled a subscription I was unsure about, I’ve noticed a pattern…


Within hours, sometimes minutes or even immediately, I start getting pop ups or emails.

“Wait! 25% off just for you.”
“Don’t go! How about 3 months free?”
“We miss you already. Here’s 50% off.”

Sound familiar?

It’s giving toxic boyfriend energy.
They weren’t so interested or attentive when you were quietly showing up, loyal as ever.
But the moment you try to leave, they’re suddenly full of effort.

So here’s the hack:
If you’re not sure about a subscription, cancel it.
You can always re-subscribe later (at the discounted price!) if you realise you actually miss it.
But more often than not, the cancellation is exactly what triggers the best offer.

You’re not being difficult. You’re not being tight.
You’re being intentional with your money.

Money should always be used intentionally, don’t let it be quietly drained away from you in the background.
And if something no longer serves you, it’s okay to let it go.

Even if it once did.
Even if it still promises to do better.

Because you deserve to use your money in a way that serves you, and paying for subscriptions is a form of that. It’s an energy exchange and if its one sided, it’s unhealthy! How we use our money carrys energy. By allowing your money to be ‘wasted’ you are essentially saying “I don’t care about my money”!

So what can you do?


Take 10 minutes today to review your subscriptions.

  • What are you paying for that you don’t use?

  • What can you threaten to cancel today just to see what happens?

  • What can that money be better spent on, or saved for?

Small actions like these add up.
You’re not just managing money, you’re taking your power back and creating a better relationship with your money, one that is respectful and intentional. Like a healthier relationship with partner!

Remember money is an energy, and we all know energy is precious so don’t let it leak out unnecessarily

✨ Want more practical tips like this? Join my newsletter or follow me on Instagram for regular money wisdom grounded in real life and real empowerment.

Previous
Previous

One Click Away from Losing Over 5,000 AED – A Cautionary Tale About OTP Messages

Next
Next

Why Financial Clarity Matters Now More Than Ever