How To Shop With Intention
Unintentionally, we’re subjected to ads all day long. On television, on websites, on billboards as we drive down the freeway; ads are ever-present. It can be difficult to get away from it all. A certain amount of advertisement avoidance is needed, or we might shop ’till we drop. Today I’d like to introduce you to a concept called “intentional shopping”. What is intentional shopping? It’s something that will help you to save money, live healthier, and keep your mind in the right place.
Remember as a kid you begged your parents to buy you this or that? “Mom, can I have that squirt gun?” “Dad, can I have that board game?” What did you ask for? As adults, we do the same thing, except we might not have anyone to ask but ourselves – and that can be a dangerous thing. Let’s start by defining what intentional shopping is not.
What Intentional Shopping Is Not
A great deal of Americans shop for the sake of shopping. They look for things they can buy simply for the thrill of it. In other words, their shopping has no responsible purpose. That’s not the eBillme message, is it? Instead, people should live debt free and shop smart.
Dare I say that intentional shopping is not spending your tax return money on toys? Instead, spend it on what you actually need. You’ll feel better about that!
It’s time to mix up what we think the mall actually is. It’s not to be our playground. It’s to be our marketplace were we can purchase goods and services that enhance our lives in responsible ways.
How To Remix Your Shopping
Shopping with intention is something that more and more people are learning. Coming out of the recent recession, it is clear to me that consumers are looking for new ways to get the things they need. Here are a few ways that you can shop smart:
- Find a need, and shop for that need. Avoid situations where you shop in malls with friends. Think of a need, and shop for that need. Don’t shop for the sake of shopping. Remember, shopping with friends can cause a great deal of peer pressure and make you buy more than you ever intended.
- Set a budget before you shop. This is key. Forgetting to plan your spending before you hit the malls can be devastating to your wallet. Shop with cash to keep things safe.
- Try online shopping. Many times, you can perform a search for exactly what you need. That way, you won’t have to worry about seeing something extra that you just “need” to have. Try eBillme’s online mall, I think you’ll love it.
- Keep your eyes on the prize. When you’re walking through the grocery store, look straight ahead toward your destination. The last thing you want to do is have something catch your eye. Be intentional about where you look and what you let into your mind. Remember, personal finance is not just about the numbers, it’s about behavior as well.
You must be very clear about what your goals are when you are shopping. Is your goal to buy stuff to make you happy? Or is your goal to buy stuff you actually need? Sure, everyone needs to have some fun once in a while, but don’t overdo it!
How About You?
How do you shop with intention? Have you ever shopped with intention?
Here’s an idea: think over the past month of your shopping habits. Generally speaking, were you impulsive or were you intentional? We want to hear from you. Leave a short comment below about your shopping habits.
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