In the Face of an Unplanned Purchase

For a instinctual Super- Spender like me, shopping brings me an undeniable joy that is hard to counteract. When it comes to making a decision on the fly, my judgement can be faulty– especially when there’s a good sale. It is difficult to say no when it feels like you’re saying no to everything. Here are some things I remind myself of when faced with a possible unplanned purchase.

  1. If I buy this item, I have to make space for it.

For someone who has been pursuing a minimalist lifestyle for literal YEARS…  I sure do have a lot of stuff. It feels like I’m perpetually stuck in a cycle of accumulation and dissipation when it comes to my space, and it can be exhausting. Reminding myself that buying a new piece of clothing (or trinket or headband) would mean I’d have to then find a place to put it where I would get continued joy and use out of it can be tiring just to think about.

  1. I can put this on my Wishlist for next time.

Most purchases are not as dire as they may appear. Reminding myself that I can come back for it if I really want to, can put how much I want it (or don’t want it) into perspective.

  1. Even if I put this back and never see it again, my life will still be good.

Items that will actually improve my life, will be around long enough for me to save for them. Sometimes we tell ourselves it’s now or never, and that’s just not true. 

  1. This is not a lasting piece.

Lots of items are just trends and we all know it. Whether it’s regarding durability or fashionability, most things are fleeting in their usefulness. 

  1. This isn’t what I’m looking for.

I have a Wishlist of things I am saving up for. Would I rather buy this item in front of me or put this money aside so I can get something I’ve been saving for sooner?

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