One of the easiest ways to make a decision is to ask yourself if you want option A more or less than option B.
Are you tempted to buy a new television?
Do you want it more than you want a new house?
Are you thinking about buying a car just because there are some great deals?
Do you want it more than being able to retire comfortably (or maybe even early)?
Are you craving that decadent dessert?
Do you want it more than your next vacation?
Or being able to comfortably sit in your airplane seat on your way to that destination?
When you have clear goals and know your WHYs it makes it easy (or at least easier) to say “no” to things that would detract or derail you.
I find myself spending more on groceries (although it seems like I am buying the same quantities and items), but when I come across something that does not fit my financial or health goals, asking myself if I really want it more than my goals usually is enough to leave it on the shelf. And, when it is not, I enjoy it guilt-free.
Because I made a conscious choice. I do not feel guilty or wonder how I ended up there.
What has been tempting you lately?