Strategy: Stopping yourself from impulse buys

I admit that even I have the temptation from time to time to buy things without thinking it through. Most of us don't notice it until after the fact. I have come up with some strategies that can help you rethink your decision:

• Think of the cost of the item in terms of something else you could buy. Example: I could have this $50 XBox game today or I can save this $50 to have as spending money in Europe for my vacation next month. Which do I really want?
  
• Buy the item and wait: Keep the receipt, do not open it, and wait a few days. Really think it over and decide if you still need / want it. You can return it if you do not use / open it yet.
• Research it: Find something you like at the store and look for it online. This will force you to think it over and chances are you will find it cheaper if you still want it!
• Adjust your budget: If you can discipline yourself then you can have a spending money budget each month. Do whatever you want with the money and not worry too much about it.
• Entering a store: Assure yourself that you are just looking and not going to buy anything. Also tell yourself that you will make a list of what you want and think about it for a few days.
  

These simple steps can curb your spending and save you money. Impulse buying is a tough habit to break and you must take active steps to stop. It is the only way to get ahead financially!