Impulse Purchases Can Really Add Up, Translating Into What You Could Have Saved

By Author: Greg McTaggart
Total Articles: 48
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Admit it. You've been there, standing in a long check-out line, waiting; your eyes wander. You can't help it—products line the aisle, everything you need, things you forgot you needed, a snack. Often times, our emotions contribute to unplanned purchases. It's too easy to fall prey to purchases that are well intended, or that you think you need at the time, only to regret it later. You may think, why in the world did I buy this or I shouldn't have spent the money. This may all ring even more true if you are having financial trouble or just not saving as much as you should be. Here are some tips that can help you control your shopping impulse.
Think twice. Give yourself extra time when considering a purchase you weren't intending to bring home.
Consider your wants vs. needs. Most likely, it's a want. You've survived without it, so continue. Think about wanting to save money and what that can mean for your and your family. You'll probably feel more satisfied if you just put the item back on the shelf.
Make a list and stick to it. Only purchase what you've put on your list, unless you really ...
... did forget something. For school shopping, don't stray off the supplies list the teacher distributed—you'll end up with unnecessary and unused items.
Make a rule of not purchasing anything form the check out line. It's tempting to toss the magazine you've been reading into your cart, but, once again, you don't really need it.
Decide how much money you can spend before you leave the house, and only take that amount in cash. Leave your credit cards and checkbook at home.
Don't be fooled by clever marketing inside stores. Signs such as two for one and limit three per person are specially designed to help persuade shoppers to buy more.
Be discriminating when it comes to a sale. It's not a good deal if you don't need it.
Be realistic. Sometimes we're too optimistic about cooking, for example, that you buy exotic ingredients you never end up using. This same concept can be applied to many different purchases.
Impulse purchases can really add up, translating into what you could have saved.
About Christian Credit One, Inc.
Christian Credit One, Inc. is a national, non-profit Christian Credit Counseling organization dedicated to helping consumers achieve financial wellness through Christian credit counseling and education. Established in 1994, Christian Credit One has helped over two million individuals achieve financial security. Christian Credit One is one of the top members of the American Association of Debt Management Organizations (AADMO), Christian Credit One manages clients across the country. Personalized and confidential consultations are available in person, by phone or online. Visit Christian Credit One or call 888-767-9155.

Greg McTaggart, Certified Credit Counselor
with 22 years experience, licensed by AFCPE, Director of Christian Credit One and is an expert in budget and