Comments on: Reader Q&A: How Do You Control Your Impulse Spending?

By: Denise C.

Denise C. — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:08:22 +0000

I struggle with impulse buys ALL THE TIME. It drives my husband CRAZY. Weaknesses: magazines, food stops for the Munckins….the dollar spot at Target. (Why must they have cute stuff over there?- For suckers like me!)
I actually had a really bad addiction to Amazon.com, and had to delete the site from my computer, I adore books and would buy them DAILY.
I have been getting better though, we recently purchased a home, and I know I’d like to have money for paint, hardware and other fun house stuff!

By: Rachel

Rachel — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 02:39:39 +0000

The cooling off period is a good idea. I used to do that more and I’ll have to start again. Another thing I let go by the wayside recently is the Priority List. I put on it the big ticket items that I need or want (new roof, computer, newer car, file cabinet, etc). It’s easier to resist impulse buying if I know that I have other goals. It’s helped me put off buying an iPod for at least a year. I know I wouldn’t use it nearly as much as I think I would and I’d pay more for downloading songs that it would be worth. I think you are right, Kelly, it’s all about practice!

By: Jessica

Jessica — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 22:20:57 +0000

I’m an artist and a crafter, so I’m always making things. If I see something while shopping that I just HAVE to have, I’ll often examine it to see how it’s made. Then I tell myself I can make one, and probably for less. Just telling myself that helps me not buy it, and chances are I forget about it by the time I get home. If it’s something that I end up really “needing” after all, I can either make it or go back for it. If it’s not worth the effort, I don’t really need it after all. If you’re not into making things, try telling yourself you can come back for it later, or find it online for less. I’ve cut quite a bit of spending by bargain shopping online, and the time it takes to research a price can serve as a cool down period.