When I was in college, I worked at a retail store in the mall, Old Navy. Not only did I get a fantastic discount there, I also got the same discount at all Gap and Banana Republic stores. These were some of my favorite stores. I used that discount. I acquired a lot of clothes. And what else is there to do on a break besides eat and walk around the mall and shop? So I did a lot of shopping at the other stores too.
Retail therapy helped me through breakups, college exams and stress at work. Therefore, I shopped. And shopped. And shopped. I worked 60-80 hours a week all through college and felt like I needed to reward myself with stuff. I was maybe even a little materialistic.
Fast forward to now and I am in a purge mode. I put less value on things. I still enjoy shopping, more for other people than myself. Of course I have a little girl that is very fun to buy for (have you seen the adorable little girls clothes!) and grows quickly, but I shop much more out of practicality than because it is something to do. And I don't go overboard. I do laundry often so she doesn't need a closetful of clothes. I think about purchases before I make them. I research. I price compare. And then I buy. I have found that it is much more rewarding to have fewer items that I absolutely love than a lot of stuff I don't need/want.
I think of the money I wasted on things that I did not need and never used. And I feel guilty about that. I am a much more conscientious shopper and no longer have guilt because I feel good about the purchases I make. Not by any sacrifice have I decided to do this, it just makes sense. Although, what's done is done, I have learned my lesson and have a few tips if you want to be a conscientious shopper:
1. Make a list and stick to it
2. If you are undecided about making a purchase, think about it a few days and then decide if you still want to buy it or not.
3. Read reviews, ask around, research so you are an informed consumer.
4. When you decide to make a purchase, get what you really want rather than your second choice, even if it is more expensive. You will ultimately end up buying that item anyway so just get it over with. And if you buy the item you really want, you will likely have it a long time.
5. Think ahead to where you will put the item once you bring it into your home.
6. Don't be fooled by clearances and sales. If you would not buy it at regular price, why should you buy it on sale? It is only a good deal if you need or want it.
7. When you make a purchase of clothes, try them on again at home before you remove the tags or wash the item. Mirrors in stores have a way of making you look great in everything. The realistic mirrors in my home don't have the same magic.
8. If you don't love it, bring it back.
9. Save receipts. This is a critical process I learned from my husband after buying things at full price and returning them for next to nothing.
10. Don't shop when you are upset.
Happy Shopping!
~Angela
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