How to Become a Stress-Free Shopper

By Dave Ramsey

Published: November 25, 2008

How many times have you gone into a store with the intention of only buying one particular item and you walked out with 5 bags full of everything else under the sun? Did you have a written list when you went in the store? Probably not. "But I had a list in my head," you say. Maybe so, but the final total was a lot larger than you expected, right?

If you're already dreading that exact scenario occurring again in the coming weeks, there's no need to stress. There's still time to prevent it! The following 3 steps that will guide you toward being a smarter shopper this season (and throughout the year) and send you home with some money still in your wallet.

Get together a game plan.

It's pretty stupid to head out to the mall or any other store without a game plan-a budget. Don't think you have to carry around a 5-page printed budget as you shop. Just be smart before you go shopping, and doing so will help you be a smarter shopper. Get free budgeting forms here!

Write down the specific amount of money you have available to spend on gifts this season. There is no magical dollar amount; it's going to be different for each individual and family. You have to think what's realistic for you. Know your limit and stick to it!

Make a list. Check it twice.

By having a gift list in your head, you're just setting yourself up to spend more. Take the time to write down exactly who you want to buy for and exactly what you want to buy. Look over your list multiple times. Give it some serious consideration. By doing so, you will be armed and dangerous with your shopping list and allotted amount of money for each person. Then all the extra shiny toys in the stores won't distract you as much.

Flash the cash!

Before you hit the stores, stop by the ATM. Withdraw the specific amount of cash you allotted yourself to spend on Christmas gifts. Now that you have cash in hand, you'll know when it runs out. You'll physically see your limit. When the cash is gone, stop spending! Do not pull out the plastic!

When you pay with cash, don't be afraid to ask for a deal. Most people don't get deals when they're shopping because they either don't pay with cash or are too afraid to ask! What's the worse thing that could happen? They might say no. Big deal. At least you tried!

Whoever said you had to buy tons and tons of presents for people anyway? Enjoying gifts and shopping is all fine and dandy, as long as you stay within your own personal financial boundaries. Make a point to not put gifts and pleasing others above more important things in your life-spending time with loved ones, being in control of your money, and getting out of debt.

Dave Ramsey is a personal money management expert, an extremely popular national radio personality and best-selling author of The Total Money Makeover. Dave is changing the face of America by helping people get out of debt and build wealth. For more information on Dave, log onto www.daveramsey.com.

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