We've all been there before.
You're out shopping, you see something that catches your eye, and before you know it, you're handing over your hard-earned cash (or credit) for something that you probably don't need.
Impulsive spending can be a tough habit to break, but it is possible. With a little self-control and some forward planning, you can learn to stick to your budget and only spend money on what you need.
OR SO THEY SAY.
Look, you and I know that planning ahead only gets you so far.
You can have a budget and NOT follow it.
You can make a shopping list and STILL pick up the chocolate bar.
You can have the best of intentions to get out of debt and blow it all on video games.
What actually keeps you from impulse buying??
There's hope. A few things can keep some cash in your wallet.
1. Know Your Triggers and AVOID Them
The first step to breaking the cycle of impulse spending is to identify what triggers you to buy extra things in the first place.
Do you tend to spend more when you're feeling stressed or bored? Do certain locations or times of day make you more likely to splurge?
Once you know what your triggers are, you can start to avoid them.
2. Make a Budget...and Stay ACCOUNTABLE to Follow It!
If you want to get serious about controlling your impulse spending, then you need to make a budget and stay accountable to someone else.
Determine how much money you need for essentials like rent, food, and transportation, and then allocated a certain amount of "Fun Money" for discretionary purchases. When your Fun Money is gone, it's gone until next month - no exceptions!
If you want help making a budget, join my FREE budgeting course.
This is the MOST important step. If you're not reporting back to a REAL person, you'll have little reason to stay on budget.
3. Delay Your Purchases. Don't Tell Yourself, "No."
Here's a little trick of the trade.
Impulse buying happens a lot because we make snap decisions without giving them enough thought. If you're unsure about whether or not you really need something, try waiting 24 hours before making the purchase. Chances are, if you still want it after a day has passed, it's worth buying. But if your interest has faded, then you can save yourself some money by avoiding the purchase altogether.
I like to tell myself, "Not today. Maybe tomorrow." It helps me to think, "Not yet," instead of a plain, "No."
Nobody likes to tell themselves, "No." So don't.
If you find yourself frequently falling victim to impulse buying, don't despair - there is hope!
By being aware of your triggers and making a budget that includes room for discretionary purchases, you can learn to control your spending impulses and stick to your financial goals.
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Removing impulse spending from your life is your way forward!
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Every day, you'll get two prompts:
1. A daily accountability prompt
2. An encouragement or tip to help you cull impulse spending
At Saver Street, we're experts in helping people earn more and save more. Impulse spending is a TOP reason spending gets out of control.
Let's put your money BACK into your control.
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