7 Signs That You *REALLY* Shouldn’t Buy…That Thing!!
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Signs that you really shouldn’t buy…that thing…
A lot of stuff can throw a wrench in our finances such as an unexpected expense, losing income, and higher costs. But these aren’t the only things, and shopping is a big problem for many people.
However, acknowledging this issue is only the first step. The next step is changing your behavior. So here are a few signs that you “shouldn’t” buy something, which can help you “stop” and “think about” a purchase before whipping out your cash or card.
1. You’ve been shopping for hours, and you’re tired
This is a feeling I know too well. Sometimes, it takes me forever to find what I’m looking for. Perhaps I’m too picky, either way, it’s rare for something to immediately grab my attention.
This isn’t a big problem when I’m casually browsing. It is, however, a problem when I’m on the hunt for something specific. It’s frustrating when nothing catches my eye. And if I’m tired and frustrated, sometimes I’ll settle and buy something I’m not crazy about…because I’m ready to go.
Yet, this almost always backfires and I end up regretting the purchase.
So now, I make a point to only buy things that I really like – and if I’m not excited about an item, I keep looking.
2. You’re seeking validation
Seeking validation is another sign that you shouldn’t buy something. This refers to buying something as a way to establish your own worthiness, or because you’re trying to prove something to others (or yourself). This can start a pattern of thinking that you have to wear certain brands or own certain things to feel good about yourself.
But this isn’t the only way to seek validation.
Years ago I was browsing a boutique looking for a formal dress. They had a lot of nice things, so I was in there for quite a while. There were also several salespeople on the floor.
Given the length of time I was in the store, there was more than enough time for someone to greet me. But no one ever acknowledged me – even though they were super excited to greet other customers (who were dressed a little nicer and appeared more polished than I did at the time).
I should had walked out, but the coldness did make me feel a certain way. Who do they think they are? I can afford to shop here too? And sadly, I bought something just to prove that point.
Looking back, that was a dumb move, and the only loser in that situation was me. However, you live and you learn, and you eventually realize that you don’t have to prove anything to anyone.
3. You’re feeling pressured
I worked a commission retail job after high school, so I know firsthand that not all salespeople are pushy. If you don’t want an item, a lot of them will back off and not pressure you.
On the other hand, some salespeople ARE pushy. In which case, they’ll tell you whatever you want to hear to get your money. So it’s important to block out any chatter that encourages you to buy something.
But this pressure doesn’t only come from salespeople, friends might also pressure you to buy something you’re not crazy about (or something you can’t afford). So when in doubt, sleep on a purchase. Better yet, shop alone.
4. Ask yourself, “If no one ever saw this item, would I still want it?”
I like this question because it forces us to confront the intent behind a purchase.
Some people fall into this trap of trying to impress others. They might admire people who wear expensive clothes or who drive certain types of cars, and they attempt to imitate their style.
So ask yourself an honest question: Does impressing others influence my buying decisions? If so, take your answer as a sign that you shouldn’t buy something.
5. It’s uncomfortable
Also, it doesn’t matter how pretty or stylish an item is…if it’s uncomfortable, it’s probably a bad purchase.
I’ve made this mistake many times with shoes. I’ll try them on in-store, and if they’re uncomfortable I’ll justify the purchase by saying, “I just need to break them in.” Yet, every single time I’d only wear them a couple of times…because they were too painful.
6. You’re mad about something
You also should’t buy something if you’re stressed, angry, or sad.
Shopping can make us feel better – this has been proven. This is because the shopping experience, or anticipating shopping, triggers the release of dopamine. This is a hormone that makes us feel pleasure, and in that moment, your troubles might appear to melt away. But they really haven’t.
Some people might say, “it’s not a big deal if I buy one thing to lift my spirits.” The problem, though, is that many people can’t buy “just one thing.”
They enjoy the feeling that comes from the experience, and they want it to continue. And unfortunately, this can lead to compulsive shopping.
7. You’re counting on future money to pay for an item
Using future money to pay for something is a big mistake, mostly because we can’t predict the future.
Life can throw unexpected curveballs. To give you an example, let’s say you’re expecting a $500 bonus next month. Even though you haven’t received the money yet, you decide to go shopping with the intentions of using the future money to pay off your credit card or reimburse your bank account.
However, something unexpected happens like a car repair. Now, you have to use that $500 bonus to fix your car. In which case, you end up in the hole. And again, I’m speaking 100% from experience.
I did this quite often in my younger days. Even when I devised a plan to pay back myself, circumstances beyond my control constantly threw a wrench in my plans. So if you don’t have money to fully pay for an item, take this as another sign that you shouldn’t buy it.