MUCH ADO ABOUT SHOPPING

Shopping is an essential to life. Whether you enjoy it or not. Whether its for clothes or for groceries. Whether its from a mall or a market. Everyone shops!

Many a times we fall victim to unnecessary shopping and therefore, to overspending. With the rise in living expenses, it is not practical for one to do unplanned spending.

We are here to keep you from falling into the traps of shopping. So here goes!

MAINTAIN A LIST

Maintaining a list has never been easier. The advent of smart phones makes it super easy to form a list on the go and refer to it while shopping.

Prepare a separate list for grocery shopping. Jot down names of items as they run out. That will keep you from buying doubles and wasting money on the same thing over and over again.

HOLD YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE

Go by that list, and don’t get led by your emotions. Avoid all maybes and ifs. Be sure. Are you making a purchase simply because you “think” the kids would want to have it, or maybe you are considering buying it only because your friend also bought it and liked it? I mean would you buy cat food if you didn’t own a cat? Then put that cooking cream, or pickled cheese, or whatever unnecessary thing it is back on its shelf. Whims and wishes are the worst enemies if you want to spend wisely.

ALL PRODUCTS EXPIRE, PACKAGED OR NOT

The expiry date on packaged goods is there for a reason. Stock up on all such items keeping their expiry in mind.

And with fresh produce, remember that its perishable. It doesn’t need to carry an expiry date. Purchase fruits and veggies in quantities that will be used up before they rot and go to waste, therefore sending all your money to waste.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Oh yes, shopping needs research too. Specially if you’re looking to save a penny or two. Visit the supermarkets or the corner store in your neighborhood, browse through websites, and find your best buy.

Everyone’s best buy is different.

You may want to spend an extra buck on your favorite detergent, and lentils maybe, but not on phenyl and cake mix. The brand of soap you like is not your friend’s favorite. So find out where your essentials are available at good prices.

CHEAP PRICES OVER CHEAP QUALITY

Don’t buy that cheap quality chutney that you can make on your own by simply boiling fresh apricots along with a few spices.

Get that small pouch of mayo if it’s expensive and you will only use it once a week.

Don’t buy red chili powder in bulk as it may cost you more. Buy it fresh every month.

Ditch that soap that is expensive and smells good but will not cure your acne.

Monitor your grocery smartly and save yourself from compromising on quality.

What goes on your skin, or inside your stomach should be of the best quality. Poor quality personal care products, and food items will lead to poor hygiene and severe health problems. Always opt for the best while purchasing

HAVE YOU GOT IT IN YOU?

A lot of people find it difficult to follow these tips. Some may not be able to form lists, others may find doing a research tiresome.

In that case, take help from your parents, spouse, children or friends. Split the tasks and see yourself working as a family towards correct spending habits.

Now off you go on that shopping trip!