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You and your wife/husband are going shopping again and you know what that means.
Another dent in the wallet and more clutter in the house. You’ve tried talking to them so many times already but the impulse buys just keep coming.
How?
Well, keep reading.
Make a shopping list and stick to it
First thing first, before going out, sit down together and write a list of only the things y’all really need.
Don’t put extras or ‘maybe can buy’ stuff. Focus only on necessities. Then when shopping, buy only what’s on the list and don’t deviate. No matter how tempting the sales or newly released items are, don’t sway.
If your spouse sees something extra they want, tell them “next time.” For now, just focus on needs. Next, check off items from the list as you buy. This gives a sense of progress to not make impulse buys.
Using a targeted list works. It provides focus and direction, limiting distractions. And by reviewing the list and receipt, you’re keeping each other accountable. If can master this, you sure can tame the spendthrift beau/beast and save more money.
Cash over credit
Another tip is to use cold hard cash instead of a card. Physical money means you and your spouse can see how much is left in their wallet. This makes your spouse think twice before buying.
Using cash is a good way to control impulse buys. Your spouse can see how much they spending, so he/she is more likely will buy only what they need. And when the money runs out, no choice but to stop shopping and balik kampung.
Time-out before check-out
Still, we know it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and still make impulse buys. So here’s another way to avoid overspending: take a quick “time-out” before heading to the checkout counter.
Maybe grab a cuppa? Suggest taking a tea/coffee or snack break before proceeding to pay. This pause gives you both a chance to reconsider your cart and think twice about any non-essential purchases.
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Ask your spouse:
- “Do you need that? Let’s stick to what’s on the list.”
- “We have a budget to keep. Why not wait till next month to get that, in case you change your mind?”
Often, the urge to buy something fades after a short break.
Leaving the store environment also helps provide perspective. The music, lighting, and product displays are all designed to encourage spending. Stepping away helps combat these effects so you can make better decisions.
If after your break, your spouse still feels strongly about a particular item, consider setting a 24-hour waiting period before buying. This extra time allows the initial excitement to fade so you and your partner can determine if it’s a well-thought-out purchase or just an impulse buy.
Pausing and reevaluating before paying is an easy way to curb overspending while shopping together. Staying within budget and making joint decisions will help ensure you both leave the store feeling good about your purchases.
Reward mindful spending
Last but not least, reward your spouse when they make mindful spending choices! Every time your spouse passes up a huge impulse buy, reemphasize how much both of you have saved. Give them praise and maybe a small treat.
For example, you can say:
- “Well done, dear! I’m proud of you for not buying that new gadget even though you really wanted it. Milk tea? My treat!”
- “Thank you for being so disciplined today. I appreciate you helping us save money. Want to go for a massage session this weekend?”
Over time, this positive reinforcement will strengthen their ability to curb impulse spending. Your spouse will start to associate mindful shopping choices with rewards and praise from you, giving them motivation to keep spending wisely.
So the next time you go shopping with your other half, try out some of these practical tips. They may complain a bit at first, but deep down they will appreciate you helping them save some dough. At the end of the day, successful relationships are built on understanding and supporting each other’s weaknesses. Help your spouse shop smarter, and the financial gods will help secure your future.
