Look First. Buy Later.
Before you buy something you need, take a look around your house first.
You might already have something that will work.
Need something to organize a closet? Look around for a basket, box, or bin you’re not using. Looking for a serving dish? Check the back of the kitchen cabinet. Need a small gift? You may have something perfectly good that you bought and never used.
My grandma was pretty good at this. She believed you should use what you have before buying something new.
Today's Savings Grace Assignment:
Before you buy something, take a few minutes to look around and see if you already have something that will work.
You might save $5. You might save $50.
Either way, you kept money in your pocket.
Evangel
This is good advice. Sometimes when I'm looking for something inside my home because I need it, I run into something that I never used or was a gift I didn't need or couldn't use. Sometimes, I'll add it to my recycle bin on youtropolis, other times, I'll offer it to someone who I think can use it right away.
Another tip I'd like to add in keeping with "Look first. Buy later" is something that has always worked for me. When I'm out shopping for anything and find something I must have (including books, clothing, food items), I don't buy it right then and there. I wait a couple days and then think about it. Do I really need it? Must I really have it? You'd be surprised how often that fervor and purchase enthusiasm of the moment dissipates after a day or two, saving me the expense.
Savings Grace
That's an excellent tip. The "cooling-off" period keeps dollars in our wallets. Thank you!
Well Street
Great strategy. It's too easy to let emotions drive our decisions, including how we spend money. Being able to postpone a purchase and see if we're still hot for it days later is a superpower.
Present Valley
Appreciate the advice.
A good reminder as the season is changing...well eventually it will to cooler weather, and the thoughts of a fall and winter wardrobe are running around in my head. I can save some money by going through the closets first before going shopping. And, why do I need yet another pair of black slacks?
Delightful surprises show up in the back of the closet or drawer or cabinet all the time that I had long forgotten but are exactly what I was looking for.
Savings Grace
I'm laughing at your "black slacks" comment. We're drawn to the same thing over and over and are tempted to buy it even though we already have it. Thanks for the confirmation that taking the time to look around does save dollars.
Well Street
While going through the back of a cabinet that's been "invisible" to me for years, I've learned that I may never need to buy another pot or pan, assuming they're not made from lead, of course.
Savings Grace
Donating what we don't use is also a good habit. There are plenty of people who need what we don't. And you and the receiver feel good. A nice win-win.