Over the past few weeks, I’ve noticed myself getting a little slack with my spending.  I’m not sure if it’s the fact that my debt is paid off, and I’m seeing a little more disposable income, or the fact that it’s the holiday season and the dozens of Macy’s shopping bags on the streets are a little too tempting.  Either way, I’ve decided to slap my own wrist and pull in the reins.  And since I’m sure I’m not the only one suffering from this slack-wristed, debit card swiping syndrome, I’ve compiled my 5 tips for keeping my own shopping in check.

1.  Shop Alone

Shopping with friends (especially friends who love to shop) is a surefire way to override your spending budget and hop on the credit train to financial ruin.  I don’t have any statistics, but I’m willing to bet that a woman is somewhat more likely to buy something from a store if she’s with someone who’s buying something.  I know that I tend to want to pull out the wallet if a friend’s doing the same.

2.  Don’t shop to cure boredom.

If you’re like me, then you frequently try to walk around and busy yourself during lunch hours or right after work while waiting for someone.  These are prime shopping times, and we all break down occasionally and hop inside of the nearest warm and glowing H&M.  Break the habit!  Scout out local libraries, museums, anywhere you can blow time without pulling out a credit card.  You’ll be heavier in the wallet, and possibly improve your mind in the process.

3.  Bring Cash

If you tend to shop more during lunch breaks, take your credit card and debit card out of your purse and leave in your desk during your lunch break so that you only have cash on you if you head into a store.  This will obviously limit what you can buy with the money on you, and if there’s something that you like not within your cash limit, it gives you some time to think it over with a clear head before making a spontaneous purchase.

4. Re-Plan Your Routes

If you walk by a Nine West shoe store each day on your way to and from work, and you own 34 pairs of shoes, you should probably find a new route to work.  Taking tempting places out of reach (or out of sight) can help you avoid running in and spending a quick $70 or $80 dollars on something you really don’t need.

5.  Give it the ‘ole 24-hour Rule

The best way to distinguish between a purchase that is really needed or wanted and an impulse buy is to leave the store and come back the next day.  Twenty-four hours enough time to slow down the buy impulse and think over the potential purchase.  If you’re still itching for it the next day, and you have the funds to cover it, then go for it.

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