Top ten of the week 10/14/12

Top ten ways to shop smart, and save money.

10.  Stick to the plan. If you go shopping for new jeans, try not to walk out with jeans, a blouse, a matching purse, a hat, and a cute pen they had at the register. Although it is very easy to get sidetracked with other cute things, try to be strong and stick to your plan.

9. Ask yourself questions. Do I need this? Why? What am I going to do with it? Will my life be any better with it than without it? Will I be just as happy with it in a month? If the answer is no, put your item back. They may be cute, but you know that you won't wear a pair of shorts in the middle of winter.

8. Listen to your gut. If you are not completely in love with it in the store, you will not love it when you get home.

7. Think of someone who's jusdgement you admire. What would they think about you spending money on this item?

6. Think back. Try to remember some bad buys you've made in the past. Does this purchase sound anything like those? If yes, put your item back.

5. Get your priorities straight. Lets say, you have been saving up for a new iPhone, but you see this adorable purple bedding, with sparkles! The best thing to do, is to keep your eye on the prize. Of course, if your current bedding is ripped, and stained, then obviously you need a new one. However, if your bedding is perfectly fine, then don't waste your money. Think about all the fun you will have with your new iPhone!

4. Try to separate needs, from wants. We all want things that catch our eye while we are out shopping.  Think for a moment.  Do we just want it because it's cute or fun?  Or, do we need that item because it's necessary.  If you need headbands because your hair is all over your face during soccer practice, you need headbands.  Focus on your needs first.

3. Know the Return Policy. It's a good habit to save receipts, and don't rip tags off for at least a day. Stores have different policies on returning. ( It's a good idea to ask before you buy. )

2. Go for the bargains. A lot of the time, you can find cute things in the discount section of the store. You can also save a lot by waiting for things you want to go on sale.

1. Ask questions, and don't settle. If you don't see what you want, ask a sales associate if they have any in the back, or will be receiving any soon. Don't settle for something else. There is a good chance you can find the item you want online, or maybe even at another store.