How to not spend money just because you are bored
It's very difficult to resist spending money on frivolous items that you don't need. When you don't have some kind of financial goal, and you don't have a budget, you are in danger of wasting money. Often people shop without an exact item in mind. They buy whatever pleases them or simply because they feel bored or a little down. Others feel the need to spend because they want to reward themselves for something good they've done. Having nice stuff is not necessarily a bad thing; nevertheless, you can end up spending too much, without having very much to show for it.
Before shopping, check your budget and see how much you can spend before leaving your home. Sometimes, you may find yourself wanting to buy a brand name, good quality product. You can do so as long as you stay within your means. Look for sales and great deals in stores. Know what you are getting for your money and don't let the salespeople talk you into buying an item that you don't need. Try to avoid making quick impulse buys. Instead, wait and come back at a later time. This will help you know for sure if you still need or want to buy the product.
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Learn to be patient because prices can come down. Make sure what you buy is something that you are going to use now and not later in the future. Take time to do some price comparisons between stores. It is a lot of work, but can sometimes save you money. Get as much information as you can about the product you anticipate buying. It can help you learn about its qualities or its flaws. It helps you to know exactly if this is what you have come to shop for. Besides, taking the extra time to save money or evaluate products is a good way to escape boredom.
As you begin to save money and have cash in your hand, don't be tempted to spend it. Consider opening a bank account. It keeps track of your daily spending and also shows you the amount of cash you have available. If you see something you truly need or want, then you will have the money to buy it. Diversify your account into categories, and designate them for what you want. Open an account to save for your retirement, one for your living expenses, one for your discretionary spending, one for big items such as a car, the kid's college, vacation etc.
Have a great understanding that spending money, like buying that new dress or that new purse will not magically make your life better or exciting. Spending money is not a remedy for your boredom. Instead, it can jeopardize both your finances and relationships. Watch carefully every penny you spend to avoid being in debt and having family financial problems.
You can find lots of ways to not use money to have fun.
- You can borrow books to read, or a movie to watch from friends, family or your local library.
- You can go to the park and enjoy the weather.
- You can volunteer at your kids' school, or in your community.
- You can finish a home improvement project that you have put off for a while.
- You can visit family and friends.
- Go for a walk and enjoy nature.
- Spend some time with your kids.
- Try activities that are free or not much money in your community, such as museums.
- Learn to play an instrument or paint.
You are in control of your life, your happiness and your money. Make the choice to not spend everything you have in your wallet, or in your bank account. Save the money that you are not going to need or use. Resist using the money, or a high credit limit, as an excuse to spend. Life is not necessarily about money but offers great opportunity to learn, to teach, to give and to grow.
