Blowing the Budget

ironkurtin

I am so bad at budgeting! Either that or I am so good at finding bargains. Either way it's a devil's brew, ladies!

I need to stop shopping out of emotion and desire, and stick to something more disciplined. Yes, I have shrunk out of some pants. No, that doesn't mean I need to replace ALL OF THEM. Yes, we might move. IN A YEAR. I don't need to shop for that NOW.

Any tips for being firm and saying NO?

13 years ago

Shopping

7 replies

Latest reply was from Laura (rhubarbgirl)

Veteran

Talk to Zapotee about the high cost of college?

13 years ago

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

Think of your long term goals. And set some short term goals.
For me short term goal is saving enough money for Zara in Austin.
Long term goal, ski trip to Whistler next winter.
Also what works for me right now, is logging into my retirement account and playing around with the calculators and realize I really need to sock more away.

13 years ago

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I found working out what I actually needed really helped.
I worked out the categories of clothes I needed & how many times a week (or year in the case of really dressy items) I wore them.
Then I multiplied this figure by the number of times I could repeat an outfit per season without being bored. It made me realise how few clothes I needed. I do have more than this minimum but now I feel as though I have more than enough - even though I have far fewer clothes.

The other thing I do (when I really want something) is to think about what I already have. If I have something that's better or the same quality then I don't buy. If it's an upgrade I think about it.

13 years ago

Carole

Veteran

No. I have no tips for being firm and saying no to myself:) At least you have company! When you find the secret, please do share!

13 years ago

Spiffy

Active Member

I use evernote to keep a running list of items I have/ I'd like to find/ items I'm considering.. items that make my mouth water I find it helps me to focus when I do shop and keep me focused on my bigger goals (quality, minimalist wardrobe).

Plus, I think it is kinda fun to revisit items I put on there six months or more ago. It makes me laugh when I look at something and think 'I'd NEVER wear that' when I was in love two years ago.

Instead of buying maybe try compiling a list so you can see everything you want and prioritize?

13 years ago

rae

(website)

Veteran

Focusing on the long term sounds good. Yes, you won't move for a year... but if you save, you can have a much better time shopping once you get there and are 100% sure of the climate, culture, work conditions, etc.

13 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

To get all psychobabble for a minute, I tend to impulse shop or spend too much because of an emotional need, not just the desire for a new piece of clothes. Maybe I want to escape for a minute, or fantasize about having a different life. I'm not saying I can't do that as a coping strategy, but I want to at least choose it consciously rather than doing it without realizing it and feeling out of control.

I guess I'm not really giving any advice here; just something to think about. Sometimes the best solution for me is thinking of a different way to address whatever it is I'm worried about or want, or at least acknowledging honestly what it is I want, even if I can't have it right now.

13 years ago

Category