1. Set a $ Limit on Quick Buys
There’s nothing wrong with being impulsive – when the costs and risks are low. Grabbing a pack of gum while waiting in line and buying a brand new iPhone are very different purchases. Set a dollar limit for yourself – say $10. Any time you have the urge to buy something more than $10, give yourself a day or two to think about and see if you still want it that badly after.
2. Shop Around for Big Ticket Items
There’s nothing worse than buying something expensive and then seeing it on sale somewhere else. When making an expensive purchase, check out at least three competitors to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
3. Don’t Get Suckered by a Sale
50% off is still 50% on. Do you need whatever is on sale or are you getting pulled in by the amount of money you could “save”?
4. Try to Avoid Retail Therapy
Hey, sometimes you just need a shopping trip with the girls (or with your buddies). But if “sometimes” is turning into every weekend, consider some cheaper mood boosters. When you do indulge in retail therapy, limit yourself to a very strict budget for the day. Remember to give yourself time to consider any bigger purchases or you risk a case of buyer’s remorse.
5. Know When You’re Being Talked into Something – And Learn to Say No
It’s the salesperson’s job to sell you something and some of them are great at their jobs. If someone is asking how much you can afford to pay for monthly payments instead of your total budget, they’re pressuring you into buying now, or trying to sell you “upgrades”, they’re probably trying to talk you into something that isn’t in your best interest. Remember that as the buyer, you have the power in this situation. If you start to feel pressured or confused, tell the salesperson that you need to think about it and walk away. The willingness to walk away is your strongest negotiating tool.
