This is why I rank it as my top advice. Because they haven’t adequately planned, many people end up overspending or purchasing items they don’t actually need, want, or ever use. You are investing your hard-earned money and valuable time here. Yes, it is, and never forget that you deserve it. So get ready before you leave on your shopping expedition. Review what you currently have in your home, garage, closets, and cabinets, and then make a list of the “gaps” and needs this item will fill. There is a considerable difference between true needs and frivolous wants, so make sure they are the former. Last but not least, use that list when you go shopping! That list won’t look nice if it’s crumpled towards the bottom. Do not let oneself wander aimlessly through a shopping area. Many people use shopping as a means to laze around, while passing a day at their preferred mall. Not a tactic I would support or recommend. No meandering shopping is the way to go if you want to purchase wisely. Set a deadline for when you will finish your shopping, and when that time has passed, it’s time to go home. Once you’ve purchased all you require, quit shopping and focus on something else for the rest of the day since your time is too valuable to be wasted mindlessly. Decide on your most convenient time. Shopping can be exhausting and unpleasant if you don’t do it at a convenient time.
