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.