Have you ever been in a store and found something you just HAD to have? You can come up with so many reasons to buy it. But, with just a few hacks, you can make sure that “omg, gotta have it” does not turn into buyer’s remorse.
1. Is it a want or a need?
Sometimes just the simple step of ASKING yourself is enough to bring your logical brain to the surface and bring clarity to the situation.
For example, you may really WANT that cute top, but if it is going to be thrown in the closet with 20 other cute tops, you may find your purchase less satisfying than you thought it would be while standing in the store. However, if you NEED a new pair of jeans and you found some on sale that are the fit and style you like, you will probably be happy that you purchased them, even if it means spending a little less on groceries or eating out that week.
Oh, and buying something that does not fit, no matter how awesome the deal, is almost never a good idea. Sorry.
2. Have you budgeted for it?
If you are following this program’s recommendations, you have money in a PLAY account… or maybe even an account dedicated to shopping.
Is there money in the account? Go for it. Without regret.
Life is meant to be lived. Do not deprive yourself to the point where you either (A) regret it or (B) fall of the wagon and max out your credit cards in a buying spree.
3. Where does it fall on the priority list?
Do you want it more than you want [what you would have to give up if your bought it]?
For example, do you want it more than you want your emergency savings account? Do you want it more than you want the downpayment for your house? You get the idea.
When you have your goals in place and know exactly WHY you want them, it is easier to say no to the little distractions along the way.
And, knowing that little holes sink big ships, it is far better to not create the hole by buying things you do not need that are not in your budget than to miss out on your major goals in life.