V: Do you really need it?
Have you ever found yourself walking into a store with the clear intention of not purchasing anything at all, or perhaps just looking for something on a budget? It has happened to me countless times; I enter a store with a specific item in mind, only to discover that they didn’t have what I wanted, the price wasn’t in my budget, or it was just meh. Yet, despite this absence, I often feel an overwhelming obligation to spend some money, even when my bank account is silently questioning my judgment and asking, “What in the world are you doing?” Yes, I might need something, but it certainly wasn’t the item I ended up purchasing as I left the store. As I leave the store, my internal dialogue questions is this something I will use? Did I just throw money down the drain? Or will this be something I can use or even gift to someone else?
There are three important lessons I have learned when it comes to making purchases.
First, if you find yourself second-guessing your decision, it’s probably best to walk away and not buy it. If you can comfortably live without it, it's best to skip the purchase altogether. However, if the item is something that you will utilize on a daily basis or if its clothing for example and you can use it with many different ways within your wardrobe then it might be a worthwhile purchase to consider.
Second, if you feel compelled to buy something solely to please someone else, you should think twice before going through with that purchase. After all, you may never see that store employee again or even revisit that store in the future. The only thing your actions impact is the store’s analytics by failing to make a purchase.
Third, just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean you need to buy it. Remember, especially during Black Friday, to look for good deals. For example, a $1200 mattress now costs $300—that's a great purchase. Also, consider daily items like your hair serum or a step in your skincare routine. Even if it's only 30% off, it can save you money in the long run. However, you may not need to go crazy just because it’s Black Friday. Many companies offer good sales multiple times a year, sometimes even better than Black Friday. However some brands only do have Black Friday Cyber Monday sales.
Shop wisley but also note sometimes making a purchase is good retail therapy! I know I have done it in the past! :)
