Foolish or Frugal: What Kind of Shopper Are You?

Before you buy anything, pose a simple question: “Is this something I need or something I want?” If it is a “want”—something that would be nice to have but not absolutely necessary—then you may wish to stop yourself from buying it. For example, if it is another pair of shoes when you already have plenty, put them back on the shelf and walk away. If it is an online purchase, perhaps a digital movie rental, take your hand off the mouse and close the program.

Saying “no” can be tough, especially when those around you constantly keep up with the latest in technology or the newest trend. But learning to use your money wisely is important.

Emotions play a substantial role in this. A stressful day at school or work often leads to the mindset that buying something will “make it all better.” Some people shop when they feel bored or a little “blue.”

Conversely, others do the opposite: After receiving an “A” on a test or experiencing some small success, they feel the need to buy themselves a reward.

This is called emotional spending. While purchasing something may cheer you up in the short term, the feeling does not ultimately last and the price on the tag is not usually worth it.

Questioning your reasons for purchasing something is another way to thwart needlessly spending hard-earned cash.

Often, people enter stores with money to spend, but without an exact item in mind. They walk in and buy whatever catches their eye. If you learn to question your motives and emotions each time you are about to make a purchase, then you will be well on your way to being a frugal shopper.

Understand that this article is not an attempt to take enjoyment out of your life. God wants us to have a fun, healthy, happy life. Jesus Christ said, “I am come that they might have life, and they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

There is nothing wrong with having nice things. However, you can have too much of a good thing. Just as you should watch how much food you eat and make certain what you wear is appropriate, moderation must be applied to how you spend your money. You must know the difference between “needs” and “wants”—necessity and excess.

When employed in the right way, frugal shopping can be fun!

Know What You Are Getting

Suppose you have found a genuine need. Where should you go from there?

God is a God of quality. Well-made products last longer, even though you may have to save a little while before you can purchase them. A good principle is to buy the best quality you can afford.

This does not mean, however, that you should buy things outside your means. A balance must be found between finding the best quality and staying within your budget. After looking over how much you can spend, you are ready to begin shopping.

It is good to take time to look for the best deals. This allows you to make a wise decision and get the most for your money. There are several ways to research the best price and quality.

Visiting several stores around the area you live will give you a good idea of selection and price ranges. Consider writing these items down so you can compare prices effectively.

The Internet is a great resource for finding the best products and giving you the most for your money. By looking at reports and reviews by other consumers (people who already own what you are considering), you can avoid poorly made products and find the best quality.

Researching on the Internet will also help you know what to look for in a given product. Then when you arrive at the store, you can make a knowledgeable decision. Ask many questions. The employees are there to help. Do not be shy!

Many editions of the Sunday newspaper have large sections of coupons. Most people simply throw these out or skip straight to the comics. But a quick glance through these can help you save money. Pull out your scissors and clip out the coupons that can benefit you or your family. Some of the savings may seem small, but they add up! You can also look for online coupon codes and other deals on the Internet.

Your local library is another place to save. If you are thinking of buying a book, CD or movie, the library can be a place to check it out and “take it for a test drive.” By doing this you can know if it is truly worth owning.

You will only read most books once. By using the library, you can do so for free. If you would like to read a book again, you can always check it out a second time. Libraries usually have a large selection. As long as the materials are returned on time, they will not cost you a dime.

Here a Penny, There a Penny

As you begin to save money by being a thrifty shopper, you may discover a new “problem.” Extra money! What should be done with it all? It is tempting to simply spend to your heart’s content. But if you are truly pennywise, there are other things to consider.

Having cash on hand can make it disappear quickly. Spending a little here and a little there on small purchases will make the money you have saved diminish rapidly.

A simple solution to this problem is to open a bank account. With a savings account, your hard-earned money will keep working for you by gaining interest over time. Bank accounts also help you keep track of your spending habits. They also ensure that your cash is not readily available, which can help you avoid spending it. When you find something that is worth buying, the money will be there to withdraw. (Bank accounts also allow you to keep better track of your first and second tithe.)

Talk to your parents if you would like to open an account.

Frugal Shoppers Unite!

Finding the best deals can become a hobby of sorts and, after time, a basic principle in life. In keeping an eye open for the best prices, you will be able to inform others about some of the great deals you find. Most appreciate a good sale and will be thankful for the “scoop.” They may even return the favor and let you in on sales and low prices they find.

Parents and other adults have much experience in matters of finance. Throughout their lives, they have made both good choices and bad, and can help you make well-informed decisions. Pepper them with questions about finances. More important, listen to their responses—learn from their past successes and mistakes!

Be honest with yourself when it comes to true priorities. Again, before you buy anything, ask yourself if the item is truly a necessity. This will allow you to save for times when there is a pressing need.

When you do buy, be a well-informed shopper. Wisely seek out the top value in your price range.

By keeping an eye on your finances while still young, you can avoid bad habits into which many fall. Being aware of where you spend your money now will help prevent the troubles that come with foolish spending later in life.

Be diligent—becoming a frugal shopper will not happen overnight. With a little effort, however, the benefits will last a lifetime!