Whether you’re shopping online or in the store, there are always fabulous deals and steals to snag. I’m learning that one of the best ways to save money is to know when to walk away from good deals, and I’m sharing my tips with you!
Sale | BOGO | 50% | Clearance | Reduced
Does your heart skip a beat when you see these signs at the store? I’m a sucker for a good deal too! (Hey, they don’t call me Thrifty T for nothing.) I’ll be the first to admit that buying when you can get a discount is the best way to spend your heard-earned money, but sometimes you need to walk away from those same deals.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself when you’re deciding whether or not you need to walk away from deals! You might just be amazed that you’ll be able to save money by doing this before buying!
Will I use it?
Whether you’re at the Goodwill, in the clearance aisle at your favorite store or the Dollar Spot at Target, there are all kinds of items that will catch your eye because they’re on sale. I’m not sure exactly what it is but the fact that they’re super cheap makes them look much more appealing. Before you plunk down your money make sure it’s something that you’re actually going to use. You may even need to decide how you’re going to use it, where it’s going to “live” at your house, etc.
Do I already have it?
How many times have you gotten home from the grocery store only to find that you already have this or that item in the cabinets or fridge? I’m definitely guilty of this one and need to plan better. Mentally scan your shelves/closets before buying.
Is it exactly what I’m looking for?
If the item is not exactly what you’re looking for (or have been dreaming of) it’s highly likely you’re not going to use it as often. You might as well wait and buy the exact one you’re looking for because you’ll save money by not having to buy two of the same exact item!
Does it fit right?/Is the color complimentary?
If the item doesn’t fit right when you try it on in the store, put it back on the shelf. I promise that if you’re not in love with it at the store and it doesn’t make you feel good about yourself, you’re not going to miraculously fall in love with it when you get it home. You’re just not! It’s going to sit in your closet and collect dust. (Yes, I’m speaking from experience!)
If the color washes you out, don’t blame the lighting at the store. I highly doubt the lighting is going to change that much once you get it home.
Yes I’m being blunt but I’ve seen how much money can be wasted on clothes that never get worn/used. I want to help you save money that you’ve worked so hard to earn!
Do I really need it?
Please tell me I’m not the only person who has perused the aisles at the dollar stores only to buy items that I don’t need. I thought I needed it when I was at the store but changed my mind when I got home.
Now I know that you’re thinking that it doesn’t matter because it was only $1. Well, my friend, those dollars add up over time. Just think of all the money you could save over a year if you thought about your purchases.
The next time you pick up that $1 item, as yourself if you really need it!
Is it in my budget?
Buy now, pay later. Sadly, this is how our society lives and it needs to stop because our society is broke, in debt and living paycheck-to-paycheck!
Before you plunk that item into your cart or drag it home, ask yourself if it’s in your budget. Make sure you know where in your budget the money is going to come from or how you’re going to pay for it.
And if you’re not on a budget yet maybe it’s time to start one! (Check out my three easy steps to start a budget here.)
Bonus Tip
You’ve asked yourself all of the above questions and you’re still not sure whether or not to buy the item. I highly encourage you to wait 24 hours before buying anything. Yes, I’m aware that the deals might not be there tomorrow because someone else scooped them up, but I truly think if it’s mean to be then it will be. So my bonus tip and a great way to save money is to “sleep on it.”
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