Friday Fit Tip: Impulse Buying

It’s easy to skip that Friday workout, or eat a little junk food. An occasional break or reward is not the end of the world. However, we often hurt ourselves and lose site of the traditions we were trying to build. Impulse buying is surprisingly similar. Here are some Friday Fit Tips for squashing the impulse bug:

Practice saying no to the kidsAs moms, we don't always have the luxury of being able to leave our kids with dad or a sitter while we shop. If you take your children with you, build a healthy tradition of self-control by saying “no” to their pleas of impulse buying. Letting your kids write the shopping list and find the items is a great way to keep it fun.

Food Shopping? Eat firstThere is a reason they put the deli and the bakery right by the door. Going hungry makes it easy to make irrational buying decisions. This includes picking up items you can unwrap and eat in the car. These items are usually more expensive than something you would eat at home.

Pay with cashWith cash, you have a running total of what you’re spending in real time. You are unable to spend more than the cash you have. Most people make better buying decisions when it comes to facing cash instead of plastic.

We often want what we can’t have. Set aside some cash in your budget for small impulse buys so you don’t have to chastise yourself. That way you get to reward yourself and build a great tradition all at the same time.

The Mint Makes It First, It’s Up To You To Make It Last

-Jainie-