The possibilities for one-minute impulse purchases abound these days: a download of the latest Oscar-winning movie, an Uber to get you home fast, a pint of ice cream delivered to your front door, gifts and goods of all kinds.
But as Lynne Twist says in her book The Soul of Money: Reclaiming the Wealth of Our Inner Resources, “When you let go of trying to get more of what you don’t really need, it frees up oceans of energy to make a difference with what you have.”.
Photograph by Mimi Giboin for Remodelista (see more at Matt Dick’s East/West Style).
1. Just wait.
A canvas shopper in the studio of Matt Dick of Small Trade Company. My own personal strategy is to pin things I’m admiring onto a Pinterest board for later, which could mean a week, a month, or more, and then revisit.
2. Is it a want or a need?
Everyday essentials from Father Rabbits Finds a New Home. Before making the purchase, think hard about why you need it.
3. Do your homework and look for deals.
If you’ve passed the waiting period and absolutely have to have it, take the extra steps to find the best deal.
Retailers are savvy about the brain science of shopping and know just how to tempt you with compelling displays, sleek packaging, alluring deals, and well-lit changing rooms with flattering mirrors.
4. Set limitations.
Make sure you have closet space before you consider a purchase; photograph by Alexa Hotz from Posh Japanese Workwear, by Way of Paris.
5. Think about the full life cycle of the product.
Photograph by Kassie Borreson for Remodelista.
San Francisco-based Matt Dick of Small Trade Company uses everyday materials to wrap gifts; see Expert Advice: A Holiday Gift Wrapping Workshop with Matt Dick. How will you dispose of the packaging it comes in?
The best way to curb unwanted behavior is to notice it and keep track of it in the first place. The Level Money app is a pretty genius little tool that doesn’t involve updating a spreadsheet.
6. Track it–use an app to help you manage your spending.
Photograph of designer Michaela Scherrer’s desk by Matthew Williams; see more in DIY: How to Mix the Perfect White Paint with LA Designer Michaela Scherrer.
7. Remove yourself from temptation.
Paper bags ready for purchases at The Webb Street Company in Cornwall. Have a look at A Beginner’s Guide to Zero-Waste Living: 10 Tips from Lauren Singer.