How to Stop Impulse Buying
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Don’t know how to stop impulse buying or shopping??? Impulse buying is when you buy something without planning or thinking much about it beforehand. It’s like buying that fancy gadget on a whim, only to regret it later when you realize you didn’t really need it.
We’ve all been there at some point. The good news is that with a few simple strategies, you can learn how to stop impulse buying and take control of your spending habits for good.
How to Stop Impulse Buying (for good)
1. Read reviews before you buy
Before you swipe that card or hit “checkout” online, take a moment to read customer reviews.
Hearing what others have to say about a product can help you decide whether a product is worth is. If you come across several positive reviews for a product, chances are you’ll have a similar experience with it. But on the flip side, if a product has mostly bad reviews, that could be a warning sign.
Reading reviews also forces you to slow down and really think about whether an item makes sense in your life.
Related: 39 Ways to Be Effortlessly Frugal (video)
2. Skip the window shopping
Sure, it’s fun to wander around the mall or scroll through your favorite online stores. But all that browsing can lead to trouble if you’re prone to impulse buying.
Instead, try to avoid window shopping altogether.
Find other activities to occupy your time, like going for a walk or catching up with a friend. By avoiding the temptation to browse, you’ll make fewer impulse buys and gain more control of your spending.
3. Leave your cards at home
If you know you have a weakness for impulse buying, consider leaving your credit cards at home. Take only the cash you need for the day and leave the plastic behind. This way, it’s easier to stick to your budget and you’ll think twice before making a purchase.
Paying with cash also makes you more aware of your spending habits.
4. Solo shopping trips
Shopping with friends can be a blast, but it can also lead to impulse buys.
When you’re with a group, you might feel pressured to keep up or make purchases you wouldn’t normally make. So try shopping alone instead.
You can focus on what you need without any distractions, and shopping alone can also shorten the time you spend in stores. This means less browsing and a lower chance of buying something you don’t really need.
5. Budget for fun to stop impulse buying
It’s important to save money, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun.
Therefore, to stop impulse buying, make room in your budget for little splurges here and there. Whether it’s treating yourself to a nice dinner or buying a new book, having some guilt-free spending money can help curb impulsive spending. This way, you can enjoy life without derailing your financial goals.
6. Plan your splurges
Instead of splurging on a whim, plan your indulgences ahead of time. At the beginning of each month, set aside some money for things you really want. Whether it’s a new pair of shoes or a weekend getaway, having a plan in place can help you avoid impulse buys.
By planning your splurges, you can indulge in the things you love without feeling guilty or overspending.
Related: How to Splurge the Right Way (and without going broke)
7. Sleep on it
Before you make a big purchase, give yourself some time to think it over.
For example, sleep on it for a night (or two) and see how you feel in the morning. You might find that you’re not as excited about the purchase as you thought you were, which can save you from making a costly mistake.
8. Stick to your list to stop impulse buying
Make a list of what you need before you go shopping and stick to it.
It’s easy to get sidetracked by flashy displays or tempting sales, but having a list can keep you focused. Plus, you’re less likely to make impulse buys when you know exactly what you’re looking for. A list also makes it easier to stay within your budget.
9. Return policy check
Before you buy something, check the store’s return policy. And if you can’t return an item, think twice about making the purchase, or else you could get stuck with something that you don’t really want or need.
10. Remember your financial goals
Last but not least, always keep your financial goals in mind to stop impulse buying.
Whether you’re saving for a vacation, a new car, or your retirement, remind yourself why you’re trying to curb this habit. Keeping your eye on the prize can help you stay motivated and focused on your long-term goals.
Impulse Buying FAQ
What is impulse buying?
Impulse buying is when you buy something without really thinking about it first. It’s like grabbing that candy bar at the checkout line even though you didn’t plan on it. It’s a spur-of-the-moment decision that you might regret later because you didn’t consider if you really needed or wanted it.
What can trigger impulse buying?
Impulse buying is often triggered by emotions like excitement or stress, as well as external factors like sales or peer pressure. It’s that feeling of “I must have it now” without considering if it’s truly necessary or fits your budget. Whether it’s seeing a limited-time offer or feeling pressured by friends, these triggers can lead to spontaneous purchases.
What is the danger of impulse buying?
Impulse buying can lead to overspending and financial stress. It’s risky because you’re making quick decisions without really thinking about the consequences. It can also derail your savings goals, and overspending can make it harder to pay bills on time or you might end up with a ton of credit card debt. In the end, impulse buying can threaten financial stability.