You are trying really hard to stay on a budget but every time you go shopping your budget goes out the window. Why is that? You have started to use the cash system but you’re still struggling. Maybe you’re missing an important TRICK? What if I told you the trick was to set boundaries when shopping.
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WHY BOUNDARIES?
A boundary is a line that marks the limits of an area. We normally think of boundaries when it applies to land but it can be used in different ways. The main take away from the definition is “a limit”. There is a point (limit) where that item stops.
So why boundaries? We need to set the limit that STOPS the spending.
WHAT ITEMS TO SET BOUNDARIES?
You may be wondering what items need boundaries? Everything! That’s right; everything you buy needs a boundary. Now that could mean you need to know the prices of groceries and you ONLY buy them when they are at the boundary or lower (on sale!).
This will take time figuring out but once you do you will know when something is a good deal.
Clothes and gifts are some more things that should have boundaries.
HOW TO SET BOUNDARIES?
I already shared how to set boundaries with groceries (aka: items on sale or shopping around). But let’s talk about a couple of others:
CLOTHES – This is an area that a lot of money can be spent (especially with kids). And I would suggest setting 2 different boundaries.
- SET A BOUNDARY ON THE NUMBER OF ITEMS IN THE CLOSET: Before going shopping look at what is in your closet… Let’s say you wash your clothes once a week (maybe every Monday). You would need 7 pairs of shirts to get through that week. So what is your shirt limit? And yes I know that we need dress shirts and basic shirts, so what is your number for each? Remember the lower the number the more money you save! But make sure you have enough clothes. Do this for all your clothes, yes shoes are included. Plus do it for everyone in the family.
If your shirt does not have holes, is not faded, or it doesn’t fit; you DO NOT need a new one. But if you do, let’s move to number 2.
- SET BOUNDARIES ON THE PRICE: This is something you have to be Ok with and have an idea what things cost. We purchase a lot of clothes at outlet stores because you can save a lot. Plus we purchase items after the season for a BIG DISCOUNT for the next year. Here are some of my prices, please note things could cost more in your area.
- For Me
- Basic Shirts: $7 – This is a plain tee shirt. I can find these at target
- Dress Shirt: $20 – This is for a nicer shirt but I normal shoot for $15
- Pants: $30 – I will not spend more than $30 but I can find them for $10 at Forever21
- Shoes: $30 – I look at outlet stores and normally spend less but I probably buy one new pair a year
- Skirts/Dresses: $30 – I love the clearance sections
- For Me
Now a couple of things I always do are head straight for the clearance sections. If I find something that looks ok, I then look at the price. If it’s over my boundary then it’s back on the rack. It takes time but I save A LOT of money doing this. And yes I do find quality items doing this.
So find your price for each category and DO NOT go over…
SET BOUNDARIES WHEN SHOPPING
I am going to admit it, this can take time. But it will save you money. Let’s say that by doing this you save $5 each time you go to the grocery store (which is once a week because you plan your meals). You could save $260 a year. But if you do this when shopping for clothes you could save so so much more! Try setting boundaries when you shop and you will have the trick to saving you more money each time you shop.
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