The Golden rule of 3: Among the shoppers’ community, there is this well known universal rule that if a thing could be used in 3 different ways then it is worth buying. Likewise, if you think whatever stuff you are buying could be used only one way then no doubt you will be putting it away in the lowest drawer soon.
For many people, shopping is a de-stressing technique while for some it is a luxury they must abide by to define their metro lifestyle. Whatever you may call it, all of us enjoy going to a premium retail store and shop until we drop. But as they say, too much of anything is bad and same applies to this miracle therapy which, if done too much, can take you to the cleaners. So how to go buying everything our heart desires without being ridden by guilt of over spending? Here are 9 ways to help you indulge without waking up to a shop-night hangover.
Think it, Plan it, Do it: Your inner shopper spirit is rubbing hands together in anticipation and you don’t know how to stop the monster? Brace up and make a planner. Jot down all the things you need and then calculate the amount it is going to cost you. Now withdraw that amount from your debit or credit card and lock those cards up in a vault. Whatever cash you might need is with you and that’s that for now!
Shop at the Mega Clearance Sales: As it is with all the clearance sales, almost everything is more than half price lower. Not only at the local stores but online shopping portals also organize such clearance sales so keep an eye on these events. It is worth mentioning that do not buy things only because they are way cheaper than usual, buy only if you are going to use them.
Be a Mystery Shopper: There are some websites that invite application for doing audits at movie halls, malls, retail stores, airport lounges, salons, etc. You just have to register yourself with one of them and go on an audit where your task is to rate the service you attended. The perks? A remuneration with free purchases at retail store or mall which you are doing audit of.
The Golden rule of 3: Among the shoppers’ community, there is this well known universal rule that if a thing could be used in 3 different ways then it is worth buying. Likewise, if you think whatever stuff you are buying could be used only one way then no doubt you will be putting it away in the lowest drawer soon.
Shop Off Season: Now this one is much like a clearance sale; for example buy that pair of fashion boots in summer and that way you will be paying a whole lot lesser than usual. The seasonal things cost you hefty bucks in their on-season and it’s not wise to shell out big bucks on something you can buy some time later for much less price. Make a list of things and stock up in the off season, which also goes for some grocery items especially if you have a big size freezer.
Shop for Gifts before the Festive Season: You do not need to buy Christmas gifts just before Christmas Eve which not only cost a small fortune but also becomes a daunting task due to rush-hour everywhere. Whenever you see an interesting sale going on or you think that particular scarf looks nice and cheap, buy it even if the Christmas is months away. You will get your shopping spirit satisfied while have done some worthwhile purchasing.
Prioritize other’s needs before your treats: Always make the budget and shopping planner with your family. Consider the requirements of your family members and then there is a high chance you would not be able to allocate much funds for your luxuries.
Do not shop on weekends: It is not a wise thing to shop when you do not have anything else to do and you are out to kill time; overspending is a sure thing then. Try to shop after your office hours or in between your lunch intervals. You would not have enough time to moon over things you don’t need and you will pat yourself later for not making unnecessary purchases.
Scour the local market: Just in case you are feeling too restless, you just have to shop or your soul will get lost forever in the dark realms, go and hunt down the local town market instead of driving to the mall. First, walking to the market is sure to get some edge off of you and second, you may see something that you like which could be way much cheaper just because it does not have a high-end label. Moreover, a well known brand is not always the cooler thing; you should try local artistic work and generic labels.
Would you like to add more thoughts of what has worked for you, when you shop? We look forward to your comments below!