Why is it that spending money and shopping is so much fun? I love going out with my friends and family to our favorite stores to look around and buy some amazing things. I love spending money so much that at times it becomes so natural to just whip out my credit card and buy anything and everything I want from a soda at the gas station, to that adorable scarf I saw at Target. It’s become a nasty habit that has really taken a toll on my bank account. If you too have an impulse shopping habit like me, try some of these 9 tricks to keep you from buying anything and everything in sight.
1. Only Carry Cash
When we use our credit and debit cards for ever single purchase, it’s easy to not think about the actual money that’s coming out of our wallet or bank account. One of the best ways to stop yourself from spending more money than you should is to only carry cash. I know that sounds a little crazy since almost everyone now-a-days uses cards to purchase everything. But think about it: if you have a certain amount of allowance for the month and it’s only in cash in your wallet, every time you spend money and see that cash coming out of your wallet and diminishing with every purchase, you’re suddenly going to be more aware of what you’re spending your money on. Chances are you’ll stop buying little things you don’t really need and save that cash for items that you actually do need.
2. Make A Shopping List
If you do need to go out shopping, make a list before you go. Write down what you need to buy and stick to it while you’re at the store. If you see something you want that’s not on your list, stay away from it. If you keep to this rule, you’ll stop buying impulse items just because they appeal to you at the time that you’re shopping.
3. Wait It Out
Many people believe in the “wait it out” theory for shopping. If you see something you really want, instead of buying it right away, wait a few hours, days, or weeks and see if after that time passes you still really want it. If you let your jets cool and give your mind some time to think, chances are you’ll realize that you don’t really need said item and that your money could best be used to pay your rent, groceries, or utilities.