photo credit: Diego Cupolo
Personally, I will be doing little shopping this weekend as we are having a mostly homemade Christmas. My list does require me to buy a few things, but I see no reason to toss myself into the middle of the throngs of chaotic, panic shoppers in order to purchase what I need. However, I actually do like shopping and have previously found some good buys the weekend following Thanksgiving. So I’d like to encourage you to take a few thoughtful steps before grabbing your purse and running out the door.
Purposeful Shopping begins with a Strategy. Here are some practical steps that will help you to think clearer and breath a little easier amidst the elbowing, shoving and waiting in line. Shopping can be exciting if it is intentional. Frugal Dad had a great post about how Black Friday shopping is emotional. I think he’s right on. If you’re mentally up to the challenge this can be a productive weekend for you, but it can also be a counterproductive, overspending one if you’re not careful. If you’re excited to shop the weekend away with your girlfriends, not having a care in the world, the only thing that will be fun for you is the weekend. On Monday you’ll be stressed, not being able to make sense of what you bought or who you’re going to give it to and still holding a long list of people to buy for. Here’s how NOT to do that.
Make Your List. Mine is typed and sitting safely in my purse. Your list should include each person you intend to buy for (my list excludes my hubby for secrecy reasons). List everyone, including gift exchanges and parties where you’ll need presents. Then, write what you hope to purchase for each person. It doesn’t have to be exact, but at least have an idea.
Plan Your Spending. Either carry cash only or bring your debit card and a calculator so you can keep track of how much you’ve spend at each store. Speaking from experience, if you plan for a higher number than you think you need, you’ll still spend it all. Be strict with yourself and do not allow yourself to spend more than you have. On your list make note of the amount on money you intend to spend for each gift. If you only plan on spending $20 on a sweater for your sister, then don’t buy one for $25 unless someone else’s amount gets cut. If you spend $5 extra on each gift you will have gone over your budget a damaging amount. One of the big mistakes you can make Thanksgiving weekend is to overspend and cut yourself short for the gifts you still need to get. Don’t fall into the trap.
Know When To Stop. While you’re shopping, if you start to feel stressed or anxious it’s time to leave. Choosing gifts for people you love shouldn’t evoke these feelings. If crowd-filled department stores aren’t for you then shopping online could be a great choice for you. Shop with a clear head and focused intentions. When you no longer feel this way go home. You can come back later.
Execute Your Plan. Don’t buy extra or outside your list until your list is covered. Don’t spend more than you planned. Stop when you need to.
What are your Christmas shopping plans? What strategies have you found that work well?
Why I do what I do ~ I’m sitting with my cup of coffee watching the snow lightly falling while the girls (my daughter and nieces) run around the house. A smile spreads across my face as I experience one of those moments where I feel peaceful and content, forgetting everything troublesome that exists, remembering all things wonderful in my life.
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