No matter how big or small, it’s always good to have a little checklist in your head to go through when making a purchase. Getting in this mindset can help you build a much healthier relationship with money and hopefully put a stop to those little impulse purchases making a dent in your bank account.

If you can take a minute to think things through before throwing 5 items into your basket, it can help you stay on track with your financial goals:

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Is It a Need Or a Want?

There’s nothing wrong with buying things you want, otherwise buying things would never be fun! But try thinking a little bit about the practicalities - if it’s a piece of clothing, do you have an event to wear it to or is it something you can wear often? Do you need to buy other clothes to go with it?

If something else, are you only buying it because it’s trending on TikTok or will you actually be cooking all your meals in an air fryer from now on because it will save you money? 

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How Often Will I Use It?

By breaking down the number of times you’re going to use something, it could make more financial sense in the future.

If you’re thinking about buying an expensive bag, but you’ll be using it every single day for work and it’s great quality that will last you for the next five years, then that could be a great investment. 

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Can I Afford It Twice?

This one applies more to those of you that may be tempted to purchase, mainly online, a little too often so that you find yourself waiting eagerly for payday to come around. If you buy this item and have no money left for the month, are you okay with that? Would you buy it if it were double the price?

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Has It Been On My Mind For More Than a Week?

Following the great advice my mum has always given me, if you walk away from something and you find yourself still thinking about it a week later, then buy it! Whether it’s a dress you can’t stop thinking about all the ways you're going to wear it on holiday or you can’t stop fantasising about all the meals you’ll be making with your new air fryer, then go for it.

It always helps to wait a little, just to make sure you really want it, rather than getting caught up in the excitement of a shopping day. Some of you may want to extend this time period if you’re trying to save money. 

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Does It Make Me Happy?

Lastly, and probably most importantly, does it make you happy? Are you excited about this thing, not just now as you’re standing in the shop but are you excited about the thought of wearing it or using it in the future? Is it something you’ve been waiting for? Then go for it!