Impulsive behavior can lead to poor financial decisions. Having a bad day resulting in too much take out or going overboard with some retail therapy can be fine in moderation. But acting out on these impulses more often than not can lead to a catastrophic financial future.

But how can we stop acting on our impulses when it comes to financial decisions? Sometimes our emotions and wants get the best of us. But it is important to practice self control, especially if we have a larger financial goal in mind. 

Here are a few ways to combat impulsive spending and pick up better habits!

Create a budget and stick to it!

It sounds so simple. But creating a realistic budget and keeping with it is an important first step in curbing impulsive spending. Even if it is hard to stick with at first, it will give you an idea of where you tend to spend impulsively. Knowing is the first step in making a change.

Make lists for shopping trips.

Whether it be the grocery store or a clothing shop, create a list of what you need and only buy what is on it. Practice doing this every time you shop, and you will begin to be less tempted by sales and end cap displays. 

Don’t save all your credit cards online.

If impulse spending tends to happen online, start by un-saving your credit card info from websites. This will make it harder for you to purchase things with the click of a button. Having to get up every time to input your info will create a little time between your impulses and the purchase. And maybe it will help you have a second thought about it. Even better, let things simmer in your cart overnight before purchasing. If you still must have it the next day, go for it!

Don’t forget to treat yourself!

If you feel deprived of treating yourself or your past spending habits, you are only going to go crazy if you do succumb to some impulse spending. And while it is OK to make mistakes and have setbacks, one way to help have less of them is to treat yourself every once in a while! Whether it be once a week or once a month, figure out what works best for you and your budget.