High on Life, Not on Stuff is a refreshingly honest, witty, and thoughtful look at why we keep buying things we don’t need—and how to stop. Written by Evgenia Stroganova, the book blends personal storytelling, gentle humor, and psychological insight to explore the deeper emotions behind overconsumption. The book begins with a humorous yet eye-opening moment: the author, buried in plastic bags and forgotten items during a chaotic move, suddenly realizes just how much “stuff” she’s collected over time. That moment becomes the starting point for a larger journey of self-awareness. Through her own experiences, Evgenia invites readers to reflect on their shopping habits, emotional triggers, and the societal pressures that often drive our need to consume.

From battling the illusion of a “better self” through new clothes to using shopping as a quick fix for stress or boredom, she uncovers the real reasons we fill our carts and closets. With practical advice, relatable anecdotes, and even a few fictional scenarios (like the character Lisa), the book guides readers toward clarity, simplicity, and more intentional living. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress, freedom, and finding joy in life, not in things.