Ditch Impulse Buys with a Simple 'Before You Buy' List
March 23, 2026
Why You Need a Before You Buy List
I'll never forget the time I bought a kitchen gadget on a whim, only to use it once and regret the purchase. It was a fancy food processor that I thought would make cooking a breeze, but in reality, it collected dust on my countertop. The experience taught me a valuable lesson: I needed a better system for making purchases.
Impulse buys are a common phenomenon, and they can lead to clutter, waste, and financial stress. We've all been there – scrolling through social media, seeing an ad for a new gadget or a trendy item, and thinking, "I need that!" But the truth is, most of the time, we don't need it. A before you buy list can help you avoid these impulsive purchases and make more intentional decisions.
How to Create a Before You Buy List
Creating a before you buy list is simpler than you think. It starts with taking a moment to think about your needs and goals before making a purchase. Ask yourself:
- What am I trying to accomplish with this purchase?
- Do I really need it, or is it just a want?
- Will it align with my goals and values?
Consider the 30-day rule: wait 30 days before buying non-essential items. This simple trick can help you determine if the item is something you truly need or just a passing fancy. If you still want it after 30 days, it's probably worth considering.
Make a list of essential items and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. Be honest with yourself – which items are must-haves, and which can wait? Here are some examples of essential items:
- Groceries and household essentials
- Clothing and personal care items
- Tools and equipment for work or hobbies
- Home maintenance and repairs
Tips to Stick to Your Before You Buy List
Now that you have a before you buy list, it's time to stick to it. Here are some tips to help you avoid temptation:
- Remove shopping apps from your phone: Avoid mindless browsing and impulse buys by deleting shopping apps from your phone. You can always use a computer or tablet if you need to make a purchase.
- Avoid shopping when you're emotional or bored: Shopping can be a fun distraction, but it's not a solution to feelings of boredom or stress. Find other activities to manage your emotions, like exercise, meditation, or a hobby.
- Use cash instead of credit cards: When you use cash, you'll feel the weight of your purchases more, making you more mindful of your spending.
Benefits of a Before You Buy List
A before you buy list has numerous benefits:
- Save money: By avoiding impulse buys, you'll save money and reduce financial stress.
- Reduce clutter and waste: You'll avoid buying unnecessary items that end up collecting dust or contributing to waste.
- Boost productivity and focus: With a clear list of priorities, you'll be more focused on what's truly important and can tackle tasks with ease.
In addition to these benefits, a before you buy list can also help you:
- Develop a more mindful approach to spending
- Improve your budgeting and financial planning
- Reduce stress and anxiety related to overspending
Putting it into Practice
Implementing a before you buy list is easier than you think. Start by making a list of essential items and prioritizing them. Remove shopping apps from your phone, and use cash instead of credit cards. When you see an item you want to buy, take a moment to think about your needs and goals. Ask yourself if it's something you truly need or just a want.
Remember, it takes time and practice to develop new habits. Be patient and kind to yourself as you work on creating a more intentional approach to spending. With a before you buy list, you'll be more mindful, productive, and financially stable in no time.