I’m a bonafide shopaholic and sometimes that presents a problem when trying to save money. I have the compulsive need for something new but I’m also determined to reach a goal by the end of the year so I’ve taken the necessary steps to sober up my wayward shopaholic ways. I know I have a problem but I have found some ways to curve the addiction. Setting up a budget … and sticking to it is the key to success. I also have to be realistic so I’ve also penciled in my monthly shopping allowance. I can’t just can’t quit cold turkey. I’m utilizing some assistance through Unroll Me. It’s a nifty website that helps clear out your inbox from the influx of “SALE” emails or anything else that your Gmail gets bombarded with. When it comes to online shopping I consider it my Achille’s Heels — that’s right heels— because the problem warrants both of them. But even with the help of having a dejunked inbox I still find myself needing a spending fix. Thank goodness for lipstick. It’s my favorite thing to buy when I’m getting the itch for something new. It’s satisfies my need without leaving me with buyer’s remorse and a depleted checking’s account.
I’ve recently purchased this beautiful matte fuchsia lip color from MAC. It’s perfectly named Flat Out Fabulous. Need I say more. Haha! I’ve been wearing it with everything lately so expect to see it as a repeat offender on the blog. I’m determined to remain flat out fabulous … just on a budget. Here are some saving tips from a shopaholic.
Top 3
What are the three things you can’t live without? Hopefully the answers to this question will not be material things (i.e. your spirituality, family, friends ext…) Keeping things in perspective will help you remember that you will survive if you don’t get those new pair of pumps. You probably have them in another version in your closet anyway. #FirstWorldProblems
Write The Truth
When I sat down and wrote out my expenses I couldn’t believe how much I was spending on unnecessary things on a monthly basis! Numbers don’t lie. So take the time to write out all your monthly expenses to see where you can eliminate unnecessary spending.
Make a Budget
and stick to it! Keep little motivational reminders around high risk areas (home office, refrigerator). Saving makes sense and it counts — whether you’re able to put $20 away or $200 a paycheck. Don’t knock your savings hustle — Rome wasn’t built in a day — so before you see racks on racks on racks be prepared to stack, stack, stack! I keep a different savings account at another bank that I don’t have access to by a ATM/debit card. So because I physically would have to go to the bank to take out money the less likely I am to do it.
Social Life Rollback
Getting turnt up every weekend is a sure fire way to keep your savings turnt down. Scale back from going out so much and you will find you might have an extra $100 or two to put away.
Reward System
When you pay off a credit card make sure you reward yourself with something reasonable like a bottle of champagne or a new lipstick — DON’T — I repeat – DON’T reward yourself by spending on the very same credit card you just paid off. You will find yourself right where you started.
Cash Flow
In this fast paced world we live in we can purchase anything with just a swipe or a click. Maybe we need to slow down just a bit and start using cash again. I always find it harder to depart with my Benjamins when they are physically in my hand but I find it so easy to spend them using a debit or credit card. Using cash makes spending more real. Don’t be fooled by the benefits of the modern world. If you do plan on shopping, whether for food or clothes, take out how much cash you are going to spend and that’s it. It nips overspending in the bud.
Free For All
You might be surprised to find out all the free events and activities your town or city provides. With a little planning and research you can spend an afternoon with friends without spending much cash. Free your mind from thinking that going out equals spending loads of money.
It’s Not All About You
Take the focus off yourself and the immediate new thing that you think you need and try volunteering. I’m going to take an active part in increasing my service hours. Spend time helping someone else besides yourself. You can do anything! Hit up a library, soup kitchen, or look up activities with your local Special Olympics or Boys & Girls Club. Nothing makes you feel better than helping out your fellow man. I’m sure it gives you endorphins or something…
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| Top/Necklace/Earrings/Bracelets ::: Deb c/o Skirt & Clutch ::: ASOS (old) Pumps ::: Shoe Dazzle (old) Lip Color ::: Flat Out Fabulous from MAC |
bookmarked!!, I love your blog!|