You’re walking through the mall and you see a huge sign that says SALE 70% off everything.

What are you most likely going to do?

a. Stop and look from the outside

b. Go inside the store

c. Keep it moving

The old Shannon would have picked B and also D (an option for spending a BAG!)

This is the purpose of sales! That’s why they work!

They influence our emotions and make us feel good about our decisions.

The feelings we get from buying something on sale is:

• Happiness

• Joy

• Excitement

• Responsibility

Sales triggers us by appealing to our emotions, which leads to us purchasing products and services that we sometimes don’t need or desire. When we are emotional about our spending, we don't think about it for too long or talk to someone about it, many of us react based upon our first feeling or impulse. 

Let’s look into the definition of impulse. According to Dictionary.com, impulse is the influence of a particular feeling; a sudden, involuntary inclination prompting action; and a psychic drive or instinctual urge. 

Why is it important to know this definition? This is because every impulse you have to make a purchase is because of an “instinctual urge” or “particular feeling” that has a root influence. When you recognize the root influence and take steps to address what causes those weaknesses, you kill the disease.

This holiday season, while you are shopping for your loved one (within your means), figure out the root of your impulse shopping so that you are not making unnecessary purchases.

Yes, there may be a great sale going on and you MAY receive more bang for your buck, but why spend money on unnecessary purchases, when you could spend money on something truly of value to you?

Trust me, the satisfaction of paying a bill on time, treating yourself with your CAR Fund, or increasing your MVP, will be an undefeated feeling of accomplishment! 

How can you avoid Impulse Shopping?

• Time yourself while shopping to avoid excessive store browsing.

• Take cash to pay the exact amount for gifts needed.

• Bring an accountability partner.

• Order online to avoid going into malls.

• Don’t use a cart to throw everything you see in the bag! Carry the few items you need right to the register!