The internet has become a modern day genie. Searching for cat videos? Boom! 146,000,000 results in 0.73 seconds! What year was the White House built? You’ll have the answer in 1.24 seconds. Shoe shopping? You only have 622,703 pairs to choose from on Amazon. While this access to basically everything is pretty cool, at the same time it can create a problem for impulse shoppers. The web makes it incredibly easy to quickly convince yourself that you need that teapot because it’s on sale and dares you compare prices from different stores. As an added bonus, it throws in free two-day shipping on orders over $25 dollars, which is what finally convinced you to buy that extra phone case. At the end of the day, you have spent $25 or more on stuff that you really didn’t need, but you were made to think you did. How do you avoid this?
Stop
Unless it’s a necessity, like food, petrol, or school related stuff, it can wait. Even if you’re convinced that you have to have it, don’t buy it just yet. Do some price comparison and see which seller gives you the best deal.
Wait
If it’s something more expensive, like in the $100+ range, wait a week or two before making your purchase. Waiting will make you certain that it’s something that you really want and not being made to think that you want it.
Decide
Say two weeks have gone by since you first saw that new $16 fidget spinner. You have waited this long and even did some price comparison to see if you’re getting the best deal. However, you’re still unsure if you should get it. My advice: Don’t. If you’re still unsure, it probably means that you’re going to keep it in your desk drawer and never use it again. Why not instead use those $16 for something else?
Summer is a great time to go out with your friends and shop, but remember to save your hard earned money whenever possible.
Luis Dominguez
Student Social Media Intern
1st Nor Cal Credit Union