Overspending can be detrimental to your finances in both the short and long term. Unfortunately, we live in a consumer driven society. We are constantly being bombarded with wanting newer and better “things.” All this temptation around consumption can lead us to make poor financial decisions if we aren’t careful.

Learning how not to overspend can be difficult for many people, no matter how much money you make or how many bills you have. Of course its easy and fun to buy lunch out or buy the latest phone. But when you are struggling later because of impulse purchases, it may be time to stop overspending.

Here are a few ways to get started on controlling your spending:

Use the 24 hour wait method.

If you find something at the store (or online) that you can’t live without, wait 24 hours before you purchase. Oftentimes, after waiting you may not feel the same spark when you fist tried to purchase. And if you still are thinking about the item, buy it! Thinking it through means it most likely be a good purchase.

Plan days with fun “no money” activities.

Cut down on your spending habits by planning “no spend” activities, or even full days. Plan date nights around cooking at home or picnics at the park. Check out free local events for spending time with your friends or kids. There are so many options from hiking and parks to free comedy shows or live music in most towns.

Track your spending and Budget!

Of course making a budget is part of combatting overspending! If you are having trouble with spending too much, tracking what you spend and then creating a budget that fits your needs is the best thing you can do. Tracking your spending habits will show you were you overspend, and where you can’t budge on expenses. And then creating a budget around this will set you up for success.

Overspending doesn’t have to be a financial downfall for you or your family. There are many more ways to curb your spending. But these can help be a great start to stopping overspending and to start living financially free.