Shopping Habits to Break This Year
Shopping can be/ is super-addictive. We are exposed/ consumed by so much info on the daily, that we often think we “need” those items we need on social media, TV and in magazines. There’s no denying that this pandemic has hit us hard, and something that is quick gratification from something new and shiny, may make us feel a little better in that moment. The problem with this, is we are usually purchasing items that we don’t really need/ will use. I know it’s hard, especially with so many of us are forced to stay at home and having Amazon right there with a click of a button. Today we are chatting about how to be more mindful when making shopping decisions, and habits you may want to kick and avoid this year.
Let’s start with unsubscribing from retailers’ email lists and deleting those shopping apps. I know this one is hard, especially cause everyone loves a good deal, the problem is, our brains are tricked into thinking we need items just because they are on “sale”. As much as you like to be in the know about new launch dates, new releases and sales and promos, it’s much more tempting to make purchases you don’t actually need, when you consistently see them popping up in your inbox. I guarantee this is one of the easiest ways to help you stop spending money on items you don’t need.
Next up, stop buying seasonal clothing. It’s so easy to get swept up with new trends, fads and new arrivals, but this just means you’re going to need to keep purchasing new trendy pieces every few months. Your wardrobe won’t work for you, if it’s not functional and only contains this season’s hottest crazes. I’m not saying you can’t have fun with a new fad, but maybe pick one or two a season, and one that doesn’t break the bank. If you have a closet full of over-hyped, fast-fashion, you’re going to be consistently buying. Look for classic pieces, and then add in a single trend piece to the outfit.
Stop wasting your money on sale items. Just because something is on sale, doesn’t mean you need, or even like it. My general rule of thumb is to ask myself; would I purchase this item if it was regular price? If the answer is no, or I have to think about it, it goes back on the rack. Don’t think just because it’s on sale, it’s a good deal. If you’re never going to wear it, or enjoy it, it’s not cheap and is definitely not a bargain. Even a $5 tee that’s going to sit in your closet is a waste of money, no matter what the original price was. More often than not, you’ll end up spending money on something you wouldn’t have spent money on otherwise. On a sidenote, I’m not saying sales are bad, just be clear on what you actually want/need.
Finally, put away those credit cards. I know this is easier said than done. Honestly, making purchases you can’t afford, just to have a cute new outfit, isn’t worth it. Swiping a credit card is so easy, but it can lead to bad decisions. I know using cash, seems old-school, but there’s something about handing over your hard-earned cash that makes us re-evaluate our purchases. Research has shown that we tend to spend less when we have physical cash, probably because you can literarily see your money downsizing with each purchase? I know with the pandemic, not a lot of us are carrying cash, so even getting in the habit of using your debit card is better than charging it on credit. Having a clothing budget can also help. Set aside a few dollars a week for your wardrobe spending and once it’s gone, it’s gone.
What I Wore-
