Get Bad at Shopping
Sometimes it's really important to master a negative skill. Like, keg stands or tax evasion. Because the less skilled you are at those things, the better off you are in the long run.
Take shopping as another example. The worse you get at it, the less you'll have to deal with its negative effects. Like bad purchases, regrettable impulse buys, and mounds of belongings that don't fit into your space. Just think about the time you came across a shirt, still with its tag on, and realized years later that you absolutely hate it and always did. It was painful to cut your losses and you likely buried your head into a donation bag full of shame that day. Upsetting.
Now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday have come and gone, it's time to adopt a new attitude when shopping both online and in stores. The mindset that less is more is more is more (...). And that at the end of the day, you won't feel better with more stuff. In fact, you'll probably feel worse and eventually overwhelmed. I know because I see this every day. So keep these questions in mind next time you hit the stores:
1) Do I actually need it? It seems like a silly question but sometimes we trick ourselves into buying things that we don't need! Take a few minutes to really think before swiping your credit card. Justify the purchase with at least three reasons that you're taking the plunge.
2) Do I already have it? Another silly but painfully valid question! Don't double up on items that you already have and embrace the idea that one is enough. Even if the sale is amazing. Even if this brand rarely introduces this style and excusesexcusesexcuses.
3) Will I get over it in a minute? Sometimes we make purchases to satisfy a very current need or mood. They're called impulse buys and most often lead to regret. With this in mind, think about the longevity of your considered purchase and the odds that you'll get over it in a day or two.
4) Am I sure? My rule of thumb is: when in doubt, leave it out. If you find yourself making up elaborate reasons to justify a purchase, it's a bad idea and you should stop and walk away. And if you find yourself thinking about the item a few days later, go back and buy it then. With confidence this time.
Now that I ruined everything, go hit the stores and go on a shopping spree. It'll be harder than it was last time and your closet, wallet, and Future You will be thankful.