Are you ready to become a Savvy Shopper like our fashionista?
Let’s work on spending money that aligns with your values and being mindful about living within your means.
Sometimes, shopping isn’t always done out of actual need or want. Emotions come into play that can sometimes cloud our judgment. According to a survey from Ebates.com [1], 64 percent of women admit to indulging in this behavior.
Before you buy an item, ask yourself four questions:
1. Why am I buying this?
2. Why am I buying it now?
3. What happens if I do buy it?
4. What happens if I don’t?
Then put the item on hold for twenty-four hours (or leave it in your cart for the same amount of time if you’re online). If you still want the item after your day has passed, consider it. Chances are, you’ll change your mind and realize you don’t need it. If you do decide to make the purchase, without thinking twice, a week later write down how you feel about buying it. Even better, if you’ve purchased a dress, leave the tags on and don’t wear it for a week. If you are feeling buyer’s remorse, you may be able to return it.
In our culture, we are so used to buying new clothes, gadgets, and knick-knacks instead of repairing what we have or replacing it. Buying less and taking the time to select new purchases seem so strange. To shift your mindset and gain a new perspective, I challenge you to go on a temporary shopping fast on clothes and shoes. Don’t buy any new clothes or shoes for thirty days and see how you feel. During the month, keep a little diary to journal your thoughts and feelings.
Don’t be surprised if you feel the urge to shop on Day 15; just remind yourself to explore the motivation behind your shopping habits and clean your closet instead.
I promise you in thirty days, you will be able to identify your triggers for wanting to go shopping. You will also discover other enjoyable activities to replace shopping.
For more information, you can find my book on Amazon — click here to purchase the Kindle version.
[1] News, Businesswire, April 2, 2013. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20130402005600/en/Ebates-Survey-51.8-Americans-Engage-Retail-Therapy percentE2 percent80 percent94