How to Curb Impulse Buying

In most cases, impulse purchases are relatively inexpensive items that do not seem like a very big deal at the time. However, the amount spent on impulse buying will eventually become very substantial. When you take the time to look at the big picture, you may be shocked at how much you have really spent on these impulse purchases.

How do you curb impulse buying? What steps can you take today to prevent this habit from continuing any longer? It seems like it would be quite difficult but it really involves a few simple steps to eliminate impulse buying and keep that money working for you.

The grocery store always seems to be one of most likely places to make an impulse purchase. Use the following steps to help curb impulse buying once and for all:

  • Use a shopping list when visiting the store. You are more likely to make impulse purchases when not using a list.
  • Clip, organize and carry any coupons with you when shopping. You’ll save money by clipping coupons (and having them with you) and you will save time by having them organized.
  • Determine how much you have to spend at the store. When shopping with a fixed limit, there isn’t any wiggle room for impulse purchases. Some people find it helpful to shop with cash as that requires you to stay within your limit.
  • Do not grocery shop while hungry. It seems kind of silly but shopping on an empty stomach means you will be more likely to give in to that package of cookies. Eat a small meal before leaving home.
  • Stick to your list! If an item is not on the list, do not purchase the item.

Impulse buying can be a very dangerous habit and can lead to numerous financial problems. In all seriousness, impulse buying can even become an addiction so it is not something to take lightly. With the steps outlined above, you will be taking the right steps to curb impulse buying.

If you have any other tips or stories about impulse buying, please share them to help the rest of us!

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2 Responses

  1. Shannon says:

    Hey there, I just wanted to stop in and thank you for your kind words regarding my “How to Save $ at the Grocery Store” post. It comes from many years of being broke I tell ya. Anyway, love your overall topic (again cause I’m broke a lot). I’ll be here often! 🙂

  2. mnc says:

    Shannon, thanks for stopping by and for the kind words. Looking forward to seeing you around here!

    Feel free to cast your vote in my Readers Choice poll, where I will post on a topic selected by visitors.

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