Avoid spending impulsively this Autumn

New seasons Uggs, shearling jackets, pumpkin spiced lattes, suede samba trainers, it’s official. The influencers have let us know that Autumn is on its way.

If you’re starting to get the new season itch, it’s time to take a minute and breathe.

We get it. It’s really, really difficult not to buy into new season trends. With drops, hauls and collaborations filling up our social timelines, there’s literally nowhere to hide.

If you find yourself wanting to spend impulsively at the turn of a new season, this blog is for you.

We’ve pulled together our top tips to avoid impulsive spending ⬇️

1. Budget Budget Budget

Make room in your budget for spending. Set an appropriate amount that isn’t too small to stick to, but it isn’t too large to get in the way of your financial progress.

This could be a monthly flexible expense or a longer term sinking fund such as clothes, beauty or home.

Learn more about sinking funds here.

2. Strategy over willpower

Put in place a strategy to protect yourself from impulsivity. You know how we’re always told not to shop on an empty stomach if we’re trying to eat healthily?  It’s because the sugar will call us and the dopamine hit is so tempting — it’s hard to rely on willpower.

Strategies you can use include:

• Unfollowing influencers that regularly trigger you to purchase
• Limiting your time on social media
• Unsubscribing from product-based email lists

Whatever it is you need to do to remove the need to spend impulsively, do it.

3. Create friction

If your impulse spending comes into play online, it could be time to put some friction in place. If your card details are saved, remove them.  Ignore Buy Now Pay Later options at the check out and sit with the products in your basket overnight. If you really want it you can go back for it later.

4. Focus on your goals

Impulsive spending can get in the way of achieving your big money goals. If you’re looking to buy a house, saving to go travelling or ditching debt, it’s important to make sure they are front and centre of mind. Next time you’re tempted to impulsively spend, consider that you’re potentially pushing your goal further away.  One step further? Don’t spend and move that money into your goal fund!

Create your goals for free in the Financielle app here.