We live in a society of impulse. If we want it, we get it. But, with the economic downturn, it is time to change. Change, isn’t that a great word? It has a whole new meaning now. Sorry, that is for another day.
We all get the junk mail circulars each week, but how many of us actually sit down and look at them? Or the ads in the Sunday paper? If you just take a few minutes each week to plan your shopping needs, you could save 10, 20 maybe even 50% of the cost on groceries electronics and that impulse item you just “have to” have. When I know that I want something, the first thing I do is take it to the web. I often start with Amazon.com. I use it much like Google. I research the item. Have I picked the best make and model for the price point I am willing to pay. Then I do a broader web search and see which retailers are selling it. But, the trick with web shopping is shipping and handling, which is an additional cost I often do want to pay. So, once I decide on an item, I wait for the weekly ads. You would be surprised how often what you need will pop up in the weekly ad. If my item is not on sale at a local store, I search the web to see if I can find a free shipping code. As long as I can get what I want at a deal of a price, that is the bottom line.
When you are perusing the circulars, cut out the coupons. You might not need it today, but who knows what tomorrow might bring. Michaels Arts & Crafts offers a weekly 40% off an item coupon. That is a great one to keep in your purse. You can get gifts, office needs, candy, just about everything there. You never know when you might be in the area and want to stop in. Be prepared and save some cash. Macy’s is another great retailer that often has coupons that last upwards of 6 weeks. Don’t leave your house without your coupons, they don’t work when they are lining your kitchen drawer.
