Tag: mental-health

Simple habits that help me shop smarter and save more (without feeling deprived)

My natural spending tendencies used to swing wildly between two extremes—overdoing it and depriving myself of everything. It never felt good to feel guilty for spending too much money, and it never felt good to feel so deprived of small, simple pleasures. I wanted balance.

So, I created a set of personal rules—guidelines that would give me back control over my spending and my finances. I wanted to be mindful of waste and unnecessary purchases, while still allowing space to enjoy life. These small, practical habits help me spend more intentionally and feel better about where my money goes.

These are my real-life spending rules. They’re not rigid or extreme—just small ways I avoid waste, reduce impulse spending, and stay more in control.

1. If it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t come home.

I’m petite and have always had a hard time finding clothes that fit. In my younger days, I’d say, “Oh this is good enough,” and buy things that really weren’t flattering. No surprise—those pieces ended up buried at the bottom of my closet.
Now, I only buy clothes that fit me well and make me feel good right now. I’ve found that I shop less often because I actually love what’s in my wardrobe.

2. I wait before buying something new.

If I’m tempted to buy something non-essential—especially things I didn’t even know existed until five minutes ago—I give myself at least a week to think it over.
This helps me ask: Is this just really good marketing? Was it a mood thing? Or will it truly add value to my life?
Most of the time, I don’t even think about it again.

3. I don’t overbuy—even when it seems like a “better deal.”

This mostly applies to food. I hate wasting food. I used to buy in bulk thinking I was saving money, but when I didn’t use it all, it cost me more in the long run.
Now I focus on buying the right amount. It helps me stay organized, reduces food waste, and keeps me from spending on things I won’t actually consume.

4. I only buy clothes on sale.

With a little patience, most things I like go on sale eventually. I rarely buy anything full-price unless it’s essential and timeless. This simple rule has saved me a lot over the years.

5. I search before I buy.

Before checking out online, I take a minute to search Google or check for promo codes. It’s a quick step that’s helped me save money many times—like the $100 I saved on my Garmin watch!
A few clicks can go a long way.

6. I don’t buy “just in case” items anymore.

I used to buy things I might need someday. But most of the time, I didn’t—and those purchases just became clutter. Now, I trust that if I really need something, I’ll handle it when the time comes.

7. I budget for joy.

Fun spending is part of a healthy financial life. I make sure there’s room in my budget for small joys—coffee with a friend, a weekend adventure, or a cozy new sweatshirt.
When it’s planned, it feels better—and guilt-free.

8. I spend based on my real life, not my fantasy life.

I’ve stopped buying for the version of me that “might host more dinner parties” or “might start going to yoga five times a week.”
Now, I spend based on how I actually live—not how I wish I lived.

9. I keep a capsule wardrobe.

I’ve created a small collection of clothes that mix and match easily, fit well, and work for my real lifestyle.
A capsule wardrobe saves me time, prevents decision fatigue, and helps me avoid trendy purchases that I’ll never wear.

10. I stay organized so I can see what I already have.

Whether it’s food or clothes, staying neat helps me avoid buying duplicates or wasting what I already own.
If I can’t see it, I’ll forget I have it. So I try to keep my pantry and closet simple and easy to navigate—it saves me money and stress.

Final Thoughts

Smart spending doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple habits help me save money, reduce waste, and feel more content with what I have. The best part? None of them require a spreadsheet or a sacrifice—just a little pause and purpose.

What spending rule has helped you the most? I’d love to hear it in the comments.