I think all of us get hit with the shopping bug from time to time. As a matter of fact, earlier today, I was wanting to go shopping so bad that I could barely stand it. I don’t know what it is, but I get like that sometimes, as do most people I know. I’ve been trying to redecorate the home lately and I was so tempted to start looking for new decorations online. If you’re not careful, you could very easily make purchases on impulse and that’s a really good way to blow your budget.
You see, impulse shopping is a trap that’s really easy to fall into and it’s really easy to convince yourself that something you want is actually something that you need. Now, do we really need some new candles in the home or a new painting to hang in the dining room? Whenever I face this situation I like to step back for a few moments, regain my composure and move on. This keeps me from shopping whenever I just simply have the urge to shop for no good reason.
Below, I’m going to list out some ways you can avoid shopping when you really don’t need to shop.
#1. Stay Away from the Computer
Do you have the urge to do some online shopping? If so, you should just get off of the computer in general and come back to it later. I’ve been there before and it’s really easy to get caught up in all of the excellent online deals that are going on. When this happens, I just shut off my monitor and do something else for a little while.
#2. Leave the Store
Are you out at the mall or at a store and you have the urge to buy something that you probably shouldn’t? If this is the case, you should just leave the store and come back later. If you truly need the item it will probably still be there when you come back. At least take the time out to think about the purchase first.
#3. Paint Your Fingernails
Painting your fingernails is calming and takes concentration, so your mind won’t be on shopping anymore.
#4. Play With Your Kids
Get out a board game and play it with your kids. Once again, your mind will be off of shopping and you’ll get to enjoy time with your children.
#5. Do Some Cleaning
Take your mind off of shopping by doing some cleaning around your home. You’ll save yourself some money that you shouldn’t spend in the first place and you’ll have a clean house.
#6. Pay Your Bills
Going over and paying your bills are a great way to get rid of the shopping itch.
#7. Exercise
Exercising is a great way to take your mind off of shopping, plus you’ll get in better shape.
#8. Enjoy a Movie
Take a seat on the couch and turn on a movie you want to watch. You’ll get caught up in the movie and forget all about shopping.
