You Have to Shop | Shopping Habits

Oct 10, 2011 by April    3 Comments    Posted under: Shopping Habits

The idea behind the “Shopping Habits” series was actually inspired by an article I read during the early stages of our economic down turn.

In the article the reporter interviewed folks who claimed they weren’t going to go clothes shopping for an entire year. While in theory this sounded like quite a goal, I had a feeling it was doomed for all kinds of pitfalls.

I’m not sure what ever came of the “cold-turkey-fashionistas” (as I secretly referred to them as) however it did get me thinking.

How many other people have promised themselves to stop shopping due to the bad economy, job loss or pressure from family members?

A ton. I’m sure.

And while pitfalls are always a reality in any big goal, this particular topic is a daily situation. Simply put, you have to shop – eventually.

There are groceries to be bought, school supply shopping to get done, the age old hobby of social shopping and don’t forget the home repair shopping we are all drawn to when trying to save a penny here and a dollar there.

This is why you hear so much about budgeting:

The simple word “Budget”, can tense up even the most relaxed zen master.

Why? My opinion :: the work required.

A budget is just a simplified way of saying “this is the plan I have for my money”. Then, of course, following through with the plan.

Ah, yes. The follow through part. The discipline. The shutting off of main stream media, our daily lifestyle, to stick to the plan.

As I said, the work required.

The passive aggressive jaws of life:

There you are, you’ve vowed not to spend any unnecessary money. And yet, you’re in a checkout line. You have to eatafter all. Evaluating your cart contents, your collection contains mostly necessary items. I mean, the Ben & Jerry’s is a hard earned treat after a long week at work, right?

And here lies the beginning to the downward slope. The little things. That add up.

First at the grocery store. Then at the super center. Finally, while out with friends – because that’s how you spend your free time together :: shopping.

Before you know it, life has somewhat returned to normal. As in “pre-goal” normal. Except now, it just feels more defeatist.

Changing those shopping habits, when you have to shop:

Opening up the access to your hard earned money can start as a little crack in the doorway and easily turn into a flood gate out of control :: if you aren’t careful.

While I don’t believe in a school of thought that states “suffer & go without”, I do (strongly) believe in the school of thought “if it’s not on the list, we come back for it later”.

Born from the battle instincts I’ve acquired as a mother in the cereal aisle, this strategy was first used on my children ~ then my own “wants”.

As things are needed, such as toilet paper or dinner ingredients, a list is made. (in my family my husband uses a piece of paper and I use the Evernote app)

When a spot in the schedule opens up for errands we work from our list(s). If something in the store catches our eye we discuss the options. Most often, the item is left behind and we determine if it should be included on the list for our next trip.

A first step like this can give anyone trying to improve their shopping habits “an out”. As in, the pressure is off to shop, shop, shop ~ buy, buy, buy. As well as the chance to be more thoughtful about the money exiting a bank account and the “stuff” entering a living space. Ultimately, practicing healthier shopping habits all around.

Be sure to share your thoughts below or over on The Mental Clutter Coach Facebook Page ::

What shopping habits do you rely on when you have to shop?

Got anything to say? Go ahead and leave a comment!