Do you struggle with impulse spending? Don’t worry. This isn’t just you.
Many people impulsively buy things when they’re out shopping or worse, when they’re scrolling on their phones. Since it is so easy to just buy something, impulse shopping can be a real problem. These purchases add up super quickly and can wreck your budget.
(Hey! Have a bunch of items that you bought that you don’t really need? Go return them or try to sell them to recoup some of your costs.)
If you want to finally stop impulse spending for good, here are seven frugal habits to try.
Keeping a Shopping List
Always make a list before you go shopping. Of course, this applies to grocery shopping, but it also applies to household goods and clothing. Decide before what you need and how many items you need (2 shirts, 3 pants, etc.) and WRITE IT DOWN. This will help you stay on track. If it’s not on the list, then don’t get it.
Using Cash Envelopes
The cash envelope approach is a budgeting tool that lets you manage your expenses by categorizing them. Based on your spending goals, you’ll pick how much money goes into each cash envelope, and if that envelope’s cash has been used up, you will be unable to spend any additional money in that category.
Unsubscribing From Store Emails
Go through your email right now and unsubscribe from all the emails that stores and brands send you. These emails are designed to make you want to spend more and act on impulse. If it’s not there, then you won’t be as tempted.
Making a 48-Hour Wait Rule
Make yourself a 48-hour rule before buying anything online. That means you leave an item in your cart for 48 hours before buying. Slowing down the purchase process will make you think twice before buying.
Setting Monthly Spending Limits
Sit down before the month begins and set a monthly spending limit for yourself. Write this down. Give yourself a goal of spending less than this amount. Give yourself a small treat if you reach this goal. Having a solidified goal is a great way to motivate yourself to control your impulses.
Getting a Hobby
Usually, people buy stuff because they are bored or trying to fill a need. Especially if you spend a lot of time online, you are constantly bombarded with ads, which means that your browsing means spending more money.
Get a hobby to fill your time instead. Preferably, this should be offline. Some free ideas include reading (get books from the library), going on a walk, dancing, gardening, running, or biking.
Get It for Free
If you really struggle with this and really still feel the need to go “shopping, then try getting it for free! Join giveaway groups, neighborhood chats, and extreme couponing communities. This can scratch the itch and won’t wreck your budget.
