Want to get out of the vicious cycle of splurging on things that just end up creating more clutter in your home and life? If you’re tired of impulse buys that only lead to regret (and a side of CC statement anxiety) this one’s for you!
Here are my top five questions to ask yourself before you spring for that new throw pillow / handbag / sweater / (fill-in-the-blank).
Would I Buy It for Full Price?
Retailers know that most people have a hard time resisting a really good deal. Couple that with strategic marketing that creates urgency by claiming it’s your “last chance” to get the amazing deal, and it’s even harder. When in doubt, take a beat and ask yourself if you would buy the item if it wasn’t on sale? Be honest with yourself – do you like it enough to buy it at full price? If the answer is no (and if the answer is maybe – the answer is no), put your credit card away and get out of the store!
Do I Already Own Something Similar?
Do you have a tendency to keep buying similar versions of the exact same item? My hand is raised high, so you’re not alone. It’s human nature to gravitate towards products that are similar to ones we already love (i.e. the perfect peachy lip gloss / white blouse / ankle bootie), but that doesn’t mean we have to own every single version of it. Next time you find yourself covet a close cousin of something you already have, appreciate the item in question, recommit yourself to loving up the version(s) you already have, and keep it moving!
Can I Borrow It?
If you need something for a specific occasion or event, chances are it may make more sense to borrow or rent the item in question instead of buying something you will seldom use. We borrow sleeping pads and camping gear from our neighbors for the few times each decade we head into the woods, and for anything formal I borrow dresses and shoes from my close friends who wear the same size. A dry cleaning bill is a minimal expense compared to the price of a new dress you really only need for one night!
Will I Still Love This in a Year?
If an item you’re eyeing is gimmicky, trendy, or super poor quality, chances are it will fall out of favor quickly. Asking this question can help ensure that you invest in fewer, better, more timeless pieces that will serve you for years. Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you for your restraint.
Is It Worth the Cost?
I’m not just talking about the literal cost (but of course you should make sure you can actually afford it), I’m talking about the energetic and environmental costs. Every single item you bring into your home needs to be put away, maintained, cleaned, repaired, etc. Make sure the things you buy feel worth the energy and resources required to own them. As consumers, we owe it to our earth (and our fellow humans) to consider factors such as sustainable manufacturing, humane working conditions, and eco-friendly materials before we buy.
I hope these questions help you make more intentional and thoughtful choices so you can save yourself precious time, money, and energy in the future. You might even want to screenshot this page and have it handy the next time you’re on a shopping bender and need some firm but gentle guidance.
Photo Credit: Andrea Posadas for Honestly WTF x Shira Gill
