Working with your spouse or significant other can be a bit of a challenge, but it is doable! In this blog post, we will discuss 5 ways to work with your spouse/significant other successfully. By following these tips, you and your partner can successfully work together and avoid any potential conflict. Let me tell you a little story about how I know this is possible before we get started.
Before meeting my now-husband, I interviewed at his business for an office manager role and had no intentions of being in a relationship with him. I had only ever worked with a significant other one other time, and it was in a restaurant. We weren’t in the same area, but he was a bartender and I was a server. Way different dynamics than the one I have with my husband now and even throughout our entire relationship.
I don’t know a ton of people who have worked in the same department or roles where they report to one another and have success. For the first 2 years of our relationship, my husband was the president, and I was involved in many different roles of the business, mostly on the operations side of things.
There were times when I wasn’t sure we would make it through, and other times when I don’t know how we could have gotten any closer. At the end of the day, what allowed us then and even to this day, when the business looks different, is 5 key ways we can work together successfully.
5 Ways to Work with Your Spouse/Significant Other Successfully
1. Keep business and personal separate
When you’re in a relationship, it can be hard to keep work and home life separate. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance between the two. Here are five tips for successfully working with your spouse or significant other:
1. Set clear boundaries. Make sure you both understand what is and isn’t acceptable in terms of work-related communication and behavior.
2. Respect each other’s space. Just because you’re in a relationship doesn’t mean you need to be attached at the hip. Give each other some time and space to focus on work.
3. Be supportive. It can be tough juggling work and personal life, so make sure you’re supporting each other. lend a hand when needed, and offer words of encouragement.
4. Communicate openly and honestly. If something is bugging you, say so in a constructive way. Similarly, if you’re struggling with work, let your partner know so they can help out where they can.
5. Take breaks together. When things are getting stressful, step away from work for a bit and spend some quality time together. Whether it’s going for a walk or just taking a few minutes to chat, taking breaks together can help you both de-stress and stay connected.
2. Cool it with the pet names
In any relationship, it’s important to maintain a certain level of respect for your partner. This is especially true when working together on a project or goal. Nicknames and pet names may be fine in your personal life, but they can create an air of familiarity that can lead to conflict in a business setting. If you’re used to calling your spouse “babe” or “honey,” it can be easy to slip into using those terms when discussing work matters. However, using terms of endearment in a professional context can come across as unprofessional and disrespectful. It’s important to remember that, while you may have a close personal relationship with your partner, you are also colleagues. When working together, it’s best to keep things formal and use each other’s given names. This will help to create a more respectful and productive working environment.
3. Never go to bed angry
When dealing with conflicts in your romantic relationship, it can often be tempting to simply retreat and go to bed while you’re still angry. However, as the old saying goes, “never go to bed angry.” This advice is especially important when you are working with your significant other, as it is essential to maintain open communication and a positive attitude at all times. Here are 3 ways to successfully navigate conflict in a relationship:
1. Keep an open mind and be willing to listen to your partner’s perspective. It can be easy to get defensive or jump straight into arguments, but these behaviors are unlikely to lead anywhere productive. Instead, try putting yourself in your partner’s shoes and really hearing what they have to say.
2. Practice active listening skills rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. Listening involves far more than simply hearing words – it also requires you to pay attention and accurately evaluate how your partner is feeling. By practicing active listening skills, you can ensure that both you and your partner feel understood and respected throughout any conflict or disagreement.
3. Cultivate healthy boundaries in terms of respect, physical distance, emotional space, etc. One of the biggest challenges in any long-term relationship is balancing the need for closeness with the need for independence. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to communicate this to your partner and set clear boundaries to maintain a healthy relationship.
4. Schedule or make time for weekly date night
According to numerous studies, one of the best things couples can do to keep their relationship strong is to schedule regular date nights. Date night gives couples time to reconnect and focus on each other without the distractions of work, parenting, or other everyday responsibilities. It can be difficult to find the time and energy for date night when you’re juggling a busy schedule, but it’s important to make it a priority. There are a few ways to make sure date night happens regularly. You can schedule it in advance and put it on the calendar like any other appointment. If you have trouble getting out of the house, you can have a stay-at-home date night and order dinner or watch a movie together. The important thing is that you take the time to focus on your relationship and enjoy each other’s company.
5. Have the same goals in mind and be going in the same direction
Becoming a successful team often starts with having the same goals in mind and being aligned in the direction you are heading. When it comes to working with your spouse or significant other, this is especially true. To successfully work with your partner, make sure that you are both committed to the same set of goals and share a similar vision for what your business should look like down the road. Additionally, focus on communicating regularly about changes and challenges that arise along the way. By aligning your efforts and prioritizing open communication, you can effectively navigate any obstacles that may come up as you work together toward achieving your shared goals. After all, when you’re going in the same direction, there’s nothing that can stop you from reaching the finish line!
Working with your spouse or significant other can be a challenge, but it’s also hugely rewarding. By following these five tips, you can successfully navigate any obstacles that come your way and build a strong, lasting partnership.
What are some other ways to work with your spouse/significant other you would add to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with your friends or colleagues who might benefit from some relationship advice.
It’s tough to break up with your best friend. You don’t want to ruin the friendship, but you also know that it’s not healthy to keep things going the way they are. If you’re struggling with how to break up with your best friend, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Trust me when I say it’s hard, I’ve been through it myself. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for breaking up with your best friend in a way that is respectful and doesn’t damage the friendship.
How To Break Up With Your Best Friend
1. The signs that it’s time to break up with your best friend
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to break up with your best friend, there are a few signs to look out for. First, take note of how often you are fighting. Misunderstandings and fights can happen in any kind of relationship. But if you find that you and your best friend are disagreeing more often than not, it might be a sign that something is off. Additionally, pay attention to how you feel after spending time together. If you always leave feeling drained or like you’ve been put through the wringer, that’s another sign that your friendship might not be as healthy as it could be. Finally, ask yourself whether you’re able to be yourself around your best friend. If you find that you’re constantly walking on eggshells or censoring yourself, it’s a sign that the friendship isn’t as supportive as it should be.
If you’re experiencing any of these things, it might be time to sit down with your best friend and talk about what’s going on. Breaking up with a best friend can be just as tough (if not tougher) than breaking up with a romantic partner. But it doesn’t have to mean the end of your friendship. Just remember to communicate openly and honestly. And try to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Through it all, you must take responsibility for your actions and not simply place the blame on the other person. Especially if you have mutual friends.
2. How to break up with your best friend in a way that is respectful and doesn’t damage the friendship
Breaking up with a best friend can be a challenging and emotional experience. To do so in a way that is respectful and doesn’t damage the friendship, it is important to set clear boundaries. And set the tone for the conversation from the start. This means being upfront about your feelings and conveying your point of view clearly and directly. Additionally, it is important to confront your friend directly. Rather than avoiding them or trying to let the breakup happen “naturally” over time. While it’s important you say your peace, it’s equally important to let them speak and have their chance to speak. Remember to choose your words carefully and don’t say anything you will regret because you are heated at the moment. Try to stay away from being passive-aggressive with your words and actions. And let your friend group know the situation.
And most importantly, try to remember that even though you may be feeling bad about having to end things, this decision is ultimately meant to make you feel good, by freeing you from an unhealthy or unfulfilling relationship. With some thoughtfulness and compassion, you can break up with your best friend in a way that leaves both of you feeling good about the future!
3. What to do after the break-up
After a break-up, it’s normal to feel sad, confused, and even a little angry. But no matter how much you may want to, it’s important not to trash-talk your ex-bestie to your other friends or on social media. Not only is it petty, but it can also damage your friendship in the long run. Instead, focus on the good parts of the relationship and remember that you’re still friends. If you need some time to yourself, that’s OK – just be sure to let your friend know that you need some space. And if you find yourself spending more time on social media than you’d like, try disconnecting for a few days. It’s important to take care of yourself after a break-up, but try not to let the breakup ruin your friendship.
4. How to deal with the feelings of guilt and sadness that often come with breaking up with a best friend
Breaking up with a romantic partner can be difficult under any circumstances, but breaking up with a romantic partner who is also your best friend can be an especially painful and complicated experience. This is because romantic partners often present a greater emotional and mental health risk, increasing the chances of romantic partners abusing you or taking advantage of your relationship in other harmful ways.
In addition to dealing with the feelings of guilt that naturally come with ending a romantic relationship, it is also important to address any mental health issues that may have been perpetrated by the abusive behaviors of your ex-partner. For this reason, it is vital to seek out professional help if you need additional support during this time, whether from a trusted friend or family member or a licensed therapist or counselor.
Overall, the most important thing when breaking up with a romantic partner who was once your best friend is to prioritize your well-being and take care of yourself during this difficult time. Whether through regular self-care activities like journaling or physical exercise or by reaching out to others for support, remember that you deserve all the love and happiness in the world and always have the right to make decisions that are best for you.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, it can be difficult to maintain any kind of relationship – let alone a close friendship.
If you find that your friendship is starting to suffer because of your mental health, it might be time to consider breaking up with your best friend. Of course, this is a decision that should not be taken lightly, but sometimes it is necessary to protect your mental health.
We know a breakup of any kind isn’t always the easiest or most ideal situation, but it’s important to take care of yourself and always listen to both sides, and choose your words carefully to not damage the mutual friendships you might have. Hopefully, this article has made you more comfortable if you need to break up with a best friend and still want to have a friendship with them. Please share in the comments if I’ve forgotten anything which helped you in your situation.
Do you come back home after a long day at work, only to feel suffocated? Do you wish to leave home to find peace?
It’s a no-brainer that your home should make you happy; it should make you breathe a sigh of relief just as you enter the door. But if you feel differently, it’s a sign that you need to change the atmosphere around the house.
Removing toxic things, and working on relationships can certainly help if you think they are a problem. However, if you know that you live in a happy family and that your family is your comfort and strength, then let’s just say your home merely needs a few changes to fix the problem.
Here are 10 ways how you can instantly change the atmosphere in your home:
10 ways to instantly change the atmosphere in your home
1. Add music
If I say music can help you calm down, I would not be sharing any new piece of information. We all already know it and have witnessed it too. So, if you wish to change the atmosphere of your home for good, you cannot afford to miss adding music.
However, you can skip hip-hop and heavy metal; you’re not having a party in your house. Instead, you can play your favorite music, but make sure it’s calming and soothing to your ears.
2. Change wall colors
Believe it or not, décor can change the whole vibe instantly – especially wall paints. Keep a neutral color scheme around the house. It is highly suggested to go for light colors – if you ask me, white or off-white is the best. They make your home feel calming by making it spacious, and bigger.
I love to do removable wall paper or if you have less patience, like me, I started doing splatter walls, where you don’t completely paint the wall. Instead, you use a paint brush and splatter a color onto the wall to give it a different look. It doesn’t take a lot of time, and only needs to be taped and plastic the area off to ensure nothing but the wall gets the splatter. (Trust, I learned the hard way!)
3. Do home-décor right
If you have painted your walls right, you would want to get to the styling and décor. If you are looking for a calming décor – white, grey, and nude colors are in trend for their minimalist touch. So, whatever you pick, it is suggested you pick from the neutral color scheme.
Additionally, you can add plants, wind chimes,and white rugs for an aesthetic and pleasant makeover. If you are looking for additional ideas, you can scroll through Pinterest for some home-décor inspiration
4. Keep the tabletops clear
The rule is not to keep the house cluttered. Neither the floor nor the tabletops. I know, tabletops seem the most convenient place for dropping stuff throughout the day, but the more things get accumulated on the tops, the more suffocating it can get. Ergo, keep tabletops as empty as you can. You can of course add décor to it, but don’t overdo it.
5. Let your home smell mesmerizing
Imagine this, you went out, and came back home to be blessed by a mesmerizing fragrance. How enchanting would it feel? Time to make your imagination a reality. There are so many ways of doing so.
You can make your home smell enchanting using these objects
Diffusers
Essence sticks
Candles
Potpourri
Room freshener spray
Fragrance Sachets
6. Add family photos
Your home must not only smell amazing, but it must reek of the people who live there. Adding family photos is a great way of adding a personal touch to your home. You can go simple by hanging in some of the happiest, and memorable photographs, you can add a touch of décor to it by creating a gallery wall with a color scheme. Gray and white if you ask me.
Tip – You can make use of mold photo frames – they are quite in trend these days.
7. Keep your home ventilated and allow natural light
A breath of fresh air, natural light can change your mood for the better. So, if your blinds are on, or curtains are closed, undo them. Not only will it save you electricity bills, but make you feel tranquil. (I would have loved to talk more about that effect or say that feeling, but forgive me because that feeling cannot be described in words)
8. Make your home cozy
Do you jump or drop yourself down on the hotel’s bed as if you are lying in heaven and would never want to get out of the bed? Guilty, right? Well, that’s because hotel rooms are cozy. You have to do the same with all the rooms so that you feel more than just comfortable – your happiest self.
You can do that by working on the mattresses, pillows, and cushions around the house. Go for thick soft mattresses, and soft and fluffy cushions and pillows. At the same time, add a soft duvet to your bed.
9. Say words of affirmations
If affirmations can make anyone feel optimistic, how can they not change the atmosphere around the house? You can say affirmations together with your family or have them play on the speaker. You can even add décor that emphasizes these affirmations. Try to add cushion covers and quoted frames with affirmations written on them.
10. Laugh more
Décor can surely help you instantly change the atmosphere, but it cannot match the transformation laughter can bring. So go on, share some jokes, and watch some hilarious movies together. Laugh like there’s no tomorrow.
Now that you know 10 easy ways to instantly change the atmosphere in your home, it’s time to get started! Pick one or two of these tips and give them a try. See how your mood changes and how your family reacts. Once you have had some success with a couple of these methods, add more until your home feels like the haven you always dreamed of. Share which of these tips worked best for you in the comments below – we would love to hear from you!
Are you feeling bogged down by your belongings? Are you tired of dealing with the stress of managing a large collection of stuff? If so, then minimalism may be the lifestyle for you! The average American home contains over 300,000 items! And that doesn’t even include the digital clutter we accumulate. Minimalism is all about decluttering your life and simplifying your existence. By removing unnecessary items from your life, you can free up space and time to focus on what’s important. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 benefits of minimalism and why you should consider it for yourself!
The Top 10 Benefits of Minimalism: Why You Should Consider It
1. What is minimalism and what are the benefits of practicing it in your life
You may have heard the term minimalism tossed around in recent years, but what exactly is it? In its simplest form, minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of everything that distracts us from them. This could mean decluttering your home, paring down your wardrobe, or spending less time on social media. While it might sound daunting at first, there are many benefits to living a minimalist lifestyle. Here are just a few:
1. Clarity of mind:
With fewer possessions and less clutter, you’ll have more clarity and focus in your life. You’ll be able to see what’s truly important and let go of what’s not.
2. More time:
With less stuff to take care of, you’ll have more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby or spending more time with family and friends, you’ll have more time to enjoy life.
3. More freedom:
Living with less will give you a sense of freedom that you didn’t know was possible. You’ll be free from the clutter, the mess, and the stress that comes with owning too much stuff.
4. Less stress:
With fewer possessions and less clutter, you’ll have less stress in your life. You won’t have to worry about keeping up with the Joneses or maintaining a certain lifestyle. You can live life on your own terms.
5. Better relationships:
With more time and freedom, you can focus on building better relationships with the people who matter most to you. You’ll be able to connect with them on a deeper level and create lasting memories.
6. Less pressure to clean up:
With fewer things in your home, you’ll have less to clean up. This can give you more time to relax and enjoy your life instead of feeling like you’re constantly cleaning up after yourself.
7. Less desire to buy more stuff:
Once you declutter your life and get rid of the things you don’t need, you’ll find that you have less desire to buy more stuff. You’ll be content with what you have and won’t feel the need to keep up with the latest trends.
8. Focus on health and hobbies:
When you have less stuff, you can focus on taking care of yourself and your hobbies. You’ll have more time to exercise, eat healthily, and pursue the things you’re passionate about.
9. Sense of freedom:
When you own less, you’ll have a sense of freedom that you didn’t know was possible. You won’t be tied down by your possessions and will be able to live life on your terms.
10. More money:
One of the biggest benefits of minimalism is that it can save you money. When you declutter your life and get rid of the things you don’t need, you won’t have to spend money on storage or unnecessary items. You can use that money to save for your future or to invest in experiences that will enrich your life.
2. How to get started with minimalism
Minimalism is a design movement that began in the 1950s. It is characterized by simplicity and functionality. In recent years, minimalism has gained popularity as a lifestyle choice. People who practice minimalism live with fewer possessions and focus on experiences rather than material things. There are many benefits to minimalism, including improved mental and physical health, more time and money, and greater creativity. If you’re interested in trying out minimalism, there are a few things you can do to get started.
First, take inventory of your possessions and get rid of anything you don’t use or need. You can also simplify your schedule by cutting back on commitments and saying no to new ones. Finally, focus on quality over quantity in your relationships. Spend time with people who make you happy and let go of toxic relationships. Minimalism isn’t about deprivation; it’s about living your best life with less. Try it out today and see how it can improve your life!
3. Tips for decluttering your home and getting rid of excess stuff
One of the most common questions I get asked is “How do you live a minimalist lifestyle?” The answer is pretty simple, but it does take some effort. You have to be willing to let go of material possessions that don’t bring you joy or serve a purpose. For some people, this can be a difficult task because they’ve been programmed to believe that more is better. Society tells us that we need to buy the latest and greatest gadgets, clothes, and cars. But the truth is, most of those things don’t make us happy. In fact, they often add more stress to our lives. So how do you declutter your home and start living a minimalist lifestyle? Here are a few tips:
1. Get rid of anything that doesn’t bring you joy or serve a purpose. This seems like a no-brainer, but it can be tough to do it. We often have sentimental attachments to things that we don’t even use anymore. But if something doesn’t make you happy, let it go.
2. Don’t be afraid to sell things. A lot of people hold onto things because they think they might need them someday. But chances are, you’ll never use that old snowboard or those clothes that don’t fit you anymore. If you’re not using it day to day, sell it or donate it to someone who will.
4. How to simplify your life and live more intentionally
As someone who values quality over quantity, one of the best ways to simplify your life and live more intentionally is to embrace minimalism. At its core, minimalism is a philosophy that encourages you to strip away distractions and focus on what is truly important in life. By living with less, you create space in your mind and your home for the things that matter most – quality relationships, meaningful work, time for relaxation and self-care, etc. In addition, there are many other benefits of minimalism that can help you live a happier and more fulfilling life.
For example, studies have shown that people who embrace minimalism tend to have better mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, by decluttering your home and environment, you can reduce stress and increase productivity – allowing you to focus more fully on the things that matter. So if you’re looking for an effective way to simplify your life and live more intentionally, consider giving minimalism a try!
5. Why you should consider a minimalist lifestyle for yourself
There are many different reasons why adopting a minimalist lifestyle can be beneficial for you. For one thing, it can reduce stress and anxiety by helping you to simplify your life and focus your attention on what matters. Not only that but being a minimalist can also have many practical benefits. For example, it can save you time and money by helping you to get rid of clutter and streamline your possessions. Additionally, the simple and uncluttered aesthetic of minimalism can make your home more beautiful and soothing, which in turn supports greater mental health and well-being.
Overall, there are many good reasons why minimalism is something that everyone should consider for themselves. Whether you’re striving for a simpler, more peaceful lifestyle or simply looking to minimize some of life’s stresses, the positive effects of this trend are well worth exploring. So don’t wait—start adopting a minimalist approach today! You’ll be glad that you did!
Minimalism is a philosophy that encourages you to strip away distractions and focus on what is truly important in life. By living with less, you create space in your mind and your home for the things that matter most – quality relationships, meaningful work, time for relaxation and self-care, etc. In addition, there are many other benefits of minimalism that can help you live a happier and more fulfilling life. For example, studies have shown that people who embrace minimalism tend to have better mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, by decluttering your home and environment, you can reduce stress and increase productivity – allowing you to focus more fully on the things that matter. So if you’re looking for an effective way to simplify your life and live more intentionally, consider giving minimalism a try!
Do you want to be happy? Of course you do! Who doesn’t want to be happy? In this blog post, we will discuss some proven ways that you can be happy and enjoy your life. Many people think that happiness is something that just happens, but that’s not true. You have to work at it! There are many things you can do to make yourself happier. We will discuss a few of them in this blog post. Read on to learn more!
Proven Ways to Be Happy and Enjoy Your Life
1. What is happiness, and why do we want it?
Happiness is often thought of as a positive emotion or state, but it actually refers to a range of positive experiences and life satisfaction. Research shows that happiness is associated with positive emotions like joy, interest, satisfaction, and contentment, as well as with life satisfaction. There are many reasons why people want to be happy, but some of the most common include feeling good about oneself, enjoying life experiences, and living a meaningful and fulfilling life. There are proven ways to increase happiness and enjoyment in life, such as practicing gratitude, savoring positive experiences, and expressing positive emotions. By making positive choices and taking positive actions, we can all enjoy greater happiness in our lives.
2. The science of happiness
According to positive psychology, there are several scientifically proven ways to increase your happiness. One way is simply to focus on positive thoughts. This positive thinking can take the form of gratitude, savoring positive experiences, or looking for the silver lining in tough situations. Another way to boost your happiness is by engaging in acts of kindness. Helping others not only benefits them, but it also makes you feel good. In fact, studies have shown that altruistic behavior is linked with increased happiness and mental health. So next time you’re feeling down, try thinking positive thoughts or performing an act of kindness. It just might make you feel a little bit happier.
3. The benefits of happiness
According to experts, one of the best ways to be happy is to keep a gratitude journal. In gratitude journaling, you write down things that you’re thankful for each day. This can help improve your mood by increasing positive thinking and gratitude. Additionally, gratitude journaling is part of the brain associated with happiness and pleasure. As a result, gratitude journaling can help you feel happier in the short term and potentially lead to a higher level of happiness in the long term. So if you’re looking for ways to enjoy your life more, consider starting a gratitude journal today! When people are happier, they tend to have a better immune system meaning they will feel happier for longer.
4. How to be happy in your everyday life
Being happy is something that we all want to achieve in our lives. And while there’s no magic formula for happiness, there are certain things you can do to increase your chances of experiencing everyday joy. Research has shown that spending time outdoors, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, listening to upbeat music, listening to upbeat music, having a grateful attitude, spreading joy, learning to let go, practicing daily self-care, eating balanced meals, having meaningful conversations, developing a positive mindset, and meditating can all help to boost your mood.
Additionally, trying new things and taking up new hobbies can also lead to a sense of satisfaction and contentment. If you are looking for more happiness in your life, you might cut down the time you are spending on social media since it tends to cause triggers and unhappy feelings. So if you’re looking for ways to be happy in your everyday life, these proven tips just might do the trick.
5. Additional tips for achieving happiness
It’s no secret that spending money can make you feel happier, but did you know that there are certain ways you can spend your money to maximize your happiness? That’s right – by following a few simple tips, you can enjoy greater happiness in your life.
First, consider spending money on experiences rather than things. Research has shown that people get more enjoyment from spending money on experiences, such as vacations or concerts, than on material possessions. So if you’re looking to boost your happiness, plan your next vacation instead of buying a new car.
Second, think about how your purchase will impact others. Spending money on items that will bring joy to others – such as gifts for loved ones or donations to charity – can also lead to increased happiness. So next time you’re considering a purchase, think about how it will affect not just yourself, but also the people around you.
6. Final thoughts
It is often said that happiness is a state of mind. While that may be true to some extent, there are also certain things that you can do to help bring about a sense of happiness and enjoyment in your life. The tips in this article are just a few of the many proven ways to be happy and enjoy your life. Give them a try, and see what works for you. You may be surprised at how much of a difference they can make. Whatever you do, remember that happiness is something that comes from within. So, always keep your mind open to new possibilities and always strive to find ways to make your life more enjoyable. With a little effort, you can be well on your way to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Tell me if stopping yourself from buying that cute summer dress is not the toughest thing in the world? If you agree, let’s just say we’re all guilty of submitting to our impulsive shopping instincts. Nonetheless, the world doesn’t collapse after that for everybody, but for some, it can shake their budgets enough to break the ground into two. In simple words, a look at the credit card statement, in the end, can fill one with guilt and financial pressures.
So, if it does the same for you, ask yourself, is it worth it? No. Financial security is imperative, and if your impulse purchases pose a serious threat to it, it’s high time you control them.
However, I do know for a person who is addicted to shopping or easily submits to shopping triggers, it can be a mountain to climb. And as someone who was triggered in the past emotionally, and shopping was the outlet, I can totally relate. Shopping always made me feel good or let me remove the emotions of not feeling I was good enough from my family. When I shopped, it made me feel like I was good enough in the moment because I could afford it. Until my bank or credit card statement came. Nonetheless, I still have tips and tricks to help you out.
How to stop spending money on impulse purchases
1. Carry limited cash
No money, no buying. It’s as simple as that. Having said that, if you know you are going to a place that might be a trigger for your impulse purchases, carry limited money with you. This includes letting your credit cards and debit cards sit at home, resting.
Only take the amount which is essential – perhaps only as much as it would take for you to take a cab, or enough to fill gas on your way home. But don’t take hands full of money as you’ll easily give in to buy what you shouldn’t. Further, avoid places you know will be a trigger for you. For me, it’s always Target. Whenever I would go visit family in the past and have to fly back home, I wouldn’t have room in my suitcase, but somehow I would still stop by Target and purchase way too many things. I’ve since learned to avoid Target when I’m feeling emotional as I will purchase too many things and end up regretting it.
2. Always take a list
This applies to every time you go grocery shopping. You buy this, you buy that, and perhaps some extra quantities of sauces that only go unused in the end. Ergo, to put an end to this, a shopping list can be something you can rely on.
Think of all the things you would need FOR THE MOMENT (Don’t think of things you think you might want in the future. That’s just a pretense your mind constructs for you). Focus on buying only those things – nothing more. Your shopping list needs you to be faithful to it. Your family and your storage also need you to be focused and faithful you won’t over crowd them and forget about the fruits and veggies that go bad too.
3. Ask yourself, do you want it or need it?
It’s easier to lose yourself in things you want but don’t need. I mean, how often did you pick up a dress you absolutely wanted, wore it once, and never again? I bet you can think of plenty of instances. The same thing happens with kids — it’s imperative they learn the difference between want and need. The sooner they do, the better off you and they will be as will your bank account.
Nevertheless, the point is, every time you are fighting with your shopping instincts, ask yourself, “Do I really need this thing?” If the answer is no, you know what to do – put the object back on the shelf. Buy only things you need, if your objective is to save money.
4. Write down financial goals
Is there a number you want to save up this month? Is there a category of expenses you have to minimize spending in? If yes, that’s your financial goal. It would be a good idea to carry it out with you every time you go out for shopping. Remind yourself that if you end up buying what you shouldn’t, you’ll only be ruining your financial goals for the month – and the long term.
If you want to travel more and are trying to save money for that, it’s a great idea to write where you want to go and possibly how much you would need for that trip, and keep it as a reminder with you. This way, when you think about spending on frivolous things, you can check to see how close you are to a trip which is pretty motivating to not get something you don’t need. I do this all the time personally, it’s my favorite way to motivate me not to spend and keep my emotions managed another way.
5. Wait before you add it to your cart
Have you ever felt desperate enough to buy what you added to your cart? As if there was some kind of supernatural power urging you to click the ‘Continue purchase’ button?
If yes, you’re not alone. Nonetheless, to battle this feeling out, wait for a minimum of 24 hours. You’ll lose the enthusiasm to finally buy it instead of when it arrives at your home.
6. Be grateful for what you have
The secret to happiness is gratitude. If you are grateful for the things and people you have around you, you’re already living life as you should.
Interestingly, gratitude can help you combat your impulse purchases too. It’s simple when you are satisfied and grateful for the things you have, you wouldn’t want more.
Therefore, the solution is simple yet challenging – start being grateful for things you have. You can start maintaining a journal, practicing mindfulness, and lastly reminding yourself in your moment of weakness, that not everybody is privileged to have what you have.
7. Learn to say a NO
The lady at the shopping center or your friend accompanying you always convinces you into buying things you restrict buying. This is when you have to say a NO to them and yourself as well.
In other words, be firm. Don’t give in to temptations – don’t care what others say. The saleswoman won’t pay your bills, you have to. So, saying NO is what you must learn to do. The same goes for your children and other areas of your life. NO is standing up for yourself and your time and your energy. It’s powerful, so don’t forget to use it and your power.
Finally,
This shall be it. Taking command over your impulse purchases can be hard, but it cannot be impossible. If you think about it, the key to it is, fighting with your temptations. Your brain is smart enough to do that.
Hey there, are you an impulsive shopper too? If yes, what helped you? In case you have a few tips to share, we’re all ears. Feel free to drop by our comment section.
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