10 Ways to Avoid Overspending

We all know the feeling of buyer’s remorse. You see something you just have to have; before you know it, you’re shelling out way more money than you ever intended. Whether it’s a new pair of shoes or a fancy gadget, overspending can quickly become a habit that can be tough to break.

If you’re sick of feeling the pinch every time you purchase, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In fact, overspending is one of the most common financial problems people face. But the good news is, there are ways to avoid it.

Here are a few of the best strategies to avoid overspending

1. Make a budget – and stick to it.

One of the best ways to avoid overspending is to set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much money you can realistically afford to spend each month, then track your spending to ensure you stay within that limit.

If you’ve tried budgeting in the past and it hasn’t worked for you, you’re not alone.

Pro-tip: start by categorizing your spending in an app, right from your phone. This increases your mental accounting and keeps your purchases at your fingertips.

2. Identify your triggers.

Overspending often happens impulsively. We see something we want and buy it without giving it much thought. But if you can take a step back and identify what triggers your impulse spending, you can be better prepared to avoid it in the future. Maybe you tend to overspend when you’re bored or feeling down. Or maybe there’s a particular purchase that always seems to trip you up (for me, it’s an unplanned trip to a drive-thru after a stressful day). Whatever your triggers may be, recognizing them is the first step to avoiding them.

Pro-tip: track your transactions daily. Reflecting on how your purchases made you feel can help you make adjustments in the future.

3. Give yourself a cooling-off period.

If you’re struggling with impulse spending, one of the best things you can do is give yourself a cooling-off period before making any major purchases. Tell yourself you’ll sleep on it for a night or wait a week before buying anything. You’ll have time to truthfully think about whether you need or even want the item, and it can help you avoid spending money on things you’ll regret later.

4. Shop with cash.

If you have difficulty sticking to a budget, try shopping with cash instead of using your debit or credit card. Carrying around physical cash increases your awareness of how much you’re spending and makes you less likely to impulse buy.

5. Use discounts and coupons.

Everyone loves a good deal, so take advantage of discounts and coupons whenever you can*. You’ll save money on the things you need, which means you’ll have more money for your savings or other financial goals. And who doesn’t love that?

*Keep in mind that you may feel pressured to buy if you see deals. This is all about knowing your triggers. See number 2.

6. Avoid temptation.

If certain stores or websites always tempt you to spend more than you should, do your best to avoid them. Unsubscribe from promotional emails, delete any unwanted apps, and take whatever other steps necessary to make it easier to stick to your budget. See number 2.

Pro-tip: when you struggle with avoiding temptation, try practicing money mindfulness. Studies show that it not only helps financial outcomes but also positively affects mental health and holistic wellbeing.

7. Stay focused on your goals.

Remember your financial goals whenever you’re feeling tempted to overspend. Whether you’re saving for a down payment on a house or trying to get out of debt, keeping your goals top of mind can help you resist the urge to spend unnecessarily.

8. Find cheaper alternatives.

If there’s something you really want, but it’s outside your budget, see if there’s a cheaper alternative you can purchase instead. For example, if you’re dying to buy a designer handbag, see if you can find a similar style for a fraction of the price at a discount store. Or, if you’re craving a fancy dinner out, try cooking something similar at home. With a bit of creativity, you can often find ways to get what you want without breaking the bank.

9. Delay gratification.

If you’re struggling to resist the urge to spend, try delaying gratification for a little while. Tell yourself you can have the item you want, but only after you’ve saved up for it or waited a certain amount of time. You’ll avoid impulse purchases and better appreciate the things you have.

Pro-tip: practicing gratitude can also help you save money. When you feel the *rush* to buy, remember everything you have that you’re already thankful for.

10. Seek professional help.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling to get your spending under control. A financial advisor or therapist can assist you in developing healthy spending habits and reaching your financial goals. You can also check out these online mental health resources.

Avoiding overspending doesn’t have to be impossible. By being aware of your triggers, setting a budget, and using other strategies, you can keep your spending in check and reach your financial goals. So what are you waiting for? Start saving today!

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