I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time going in and out of any store. I end up grabbing a bunch of things I don’t need, several things that I realized I needed when I got there and then the one thing I actually left the house to get.
Here are five suggestions to help you control your shopping and save a few bucks along the way.
- We all have areas of weakness when it comes to spending. It could be antiques, shoes, figurines, or office supplies. Make a quick run through your home and pinpoint the areas that you tend to do the most impulse buying. Writing down exactly what you buy too much of makes you feel more accountable. Remember the first step to fixing a problem is admitting you have one.
- If you find something that you want, set a specific amount of time you need to wait before you can actually purchase it. It doesn’t matter if it’s 20 minutes, a day or a week, stopping and thinking about the item gives you time to reflect on it and cool down from the excitement of spotting a shiny new thing.
- Shopping with a list is probably the best way to avoid extra purchases. The hardest part of having a mental list when you go somewhere is the fact that it’s much too easy to add to. If you have a hard copy, you tend to stick to your list better. If it isn’t on the list, don’t get it. Period.
- When you’re having a bad day do you tend to say things like “I deserve a little something” or “That would make me smile”? You tend to purchase things on a whim, faster if you’ve had a stressful day. Reward yourself through experiences. Have a glass of wine in the bath tub, take a walk, try something new.
- Ask yourself a few simple questions before it hits the basket:
- Who can I borrow this from or share it with?
- What do I already have that is like this item?
- Where will I put this item?
- When will I have time to use or maintain it?
- Why do I need this?
I am going to start doing this in February. Take the 30 day challenge with me and lets see if we can curb our impulse buying together. Remember things are easier with an accountabilabuddy. Share your experiences with me in our comments!
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