Financial Reflections

I’ll be honest, I don’t enjoy shopping.  It usually means fighting store crowds, not finding what I want (usually) and spending money on something I end up disapointed in.  I can’t get rid of all the store trips in my life, but I have found four ways to reduce my shopping stress:

1. Research before buying – My father used Consumer Reports the way some use scripture.  He didn’t buy very often, but when he did, he got something that almost always lasted.  Consumer Reports is still around, and still looks good according to Washington Post writer Michelle Singletary.  Of course, in the internet age, there are thousands of other options as well.  Personally, I like the Amazon.com reviews – even if they don’t all agree, I get more insight in to the product I’m looking for.
2. Make a list – I’m not particularly bright.  If I have to get more than two items I need a list just to remember everything.  And forgetting something means yet another trip to the store.  Also, if I make a list, I am less likely to make an impulse buy, which helps me stay on budget.
3. Stock up – Most people buy toilet paper like they aren’t going to need any next week.  I try to stock up on all necessities.  I can’t tell you how many late night trips to the convenience store I’ve saved, not to mention the money saved by buying in bulk.
4. Preventative maintenance – The things you buy to prevent problems can save you money and heartache down the road.  Everything from oil changes to dental floss can avoid you expensive repairs.  I’m not the best at this, but I think I’m moving in the right direction.  Recently, I hired a roofer to inspect a spot on my roof where the gutter didn’t look quite right.  He managed to fix things up before my eaves started to rot.  It was a load of money and stress that I saved.

Those all really are common sense items, but I’m learning that common sense only works if I put it into action.   Have any other tips?  Feel free to share them.  And may all your shopping be serene.