Simple Tricks for Controlling Overspending

You know your overspending is hurting you financially, but it seems so hard to get under control. Start with these simple tricks that can help keep your spending from controlling you.

“Please, please, please, Mom? I’ll never ask for anything ever again. Please?”

“Why can’t we go through the drive-thru and get some lunch?”

“Better buy it; it’s the last one at this incredibly low price.”

Between your kids, spouse, media marketing, and persuasive sales clerks, it seems almost impossible to say no to spending money. Short of barricading yourself in the nearest room, how can you combat the constant drain of your hard-earned cash?

Permit Yourself To Spend…a Little

First, determine exactly how much money is going out the door. A few bucks here and a twenty there can add up in a hurry.

Figure out how much you need for monthly living expenses. Include a category for savings and some for entertainment. No matter how tight your budget, setting aside some fun money will make sticking to a budget easy.

Related: Affordable Little Luxuries for the Tightest Budget

Just Say ‘No’

Next, formulate a plan to say “no” to unreasonable demands like impulse buys, unnecessary treats, or constantly eating out.

The problem arises when they infringe on your budget, force you to spend more than you earn, or prevent a savings plan.

Related: 10 Ways To Prevent Non-Essential Spending

Figure Out Your Money Triggers

Finding out what drives your desire to spend money is the key to controlling overspending.

Discover your money triggers. Do you reach for something just because it is on sale? Are you constantly buying the latest gadgets for your kids because you don’t want them to be the only ones on the block without?

Related: 8 Emotional Triggers That Cause People To Spend

Rethink What You Deserve

People buy things because of a perceived need. Advertising caters to emotion. “Buy this lotion, and you’ll look ten years younger.” “The latest game system will bring your whole family together.” “Use your credit card…Priceless.” Or the old standby, “I deserve it.”

Of course, you deserve it. But don’t you also deserve the peace of mind an emergency fund brings? Don’t you deserve to be worry-free when the bills are due? Don’t you deserve the financial freedom of being in control of your money?

Ask These Questions Before Spending on a ‘Want’

Whenever you are tempted to spend money you know you shouldn’t, ask these questions:

1. Do I need it?
2. Can I get it cheaper elsewhere?
3. Can I wait until I have the money or it goes on sale?
4. Can I use something I already have or make it cheaper myself?

Related: The Difference Between Wants and Needs

Play the Waiting Game

Make yourself wait. Even going out to the car to think about it can cool the heat of the moment.

Ask yourself why you need the item so badly. Is it just because it matches the drapes in the living room? Or do you think your incredibly picky teen would like it? Or is it just the orange sticker with the magic word “clearance” pushing your buttons?

Stop Trying To Keep Up With the Joneses

Social guilt is another reason behind overspending. “Everyone has one. I’ll just die if I don’t get one, even though I have a perfectly good older one that I don’t play much.”

Your teen will probably not say the whole sentence, but it boils down to keeping up with the Joneses. Peer pressure, advertising, and the perception that you are the only one that doesn’t have something can be huge emotions to overcome.

Related: How Much Is Envy Costing You?

When You Do Buy, Consider Buying Used

Being happy with what you have is a considerable component of contentment. After all, there will always be new and improved items. Even if you buy them, there will always be more on the way.

Buying used items like furniture, clothing, electronics, movies, music, books, or other things can save a bundle and get you off the treadmill of over-consumption. Get in the habit of looking for used items first.

So How Do You Say “No” to Spending Money?

Sit down with your family and go over the finances. Be honest with your budget so that everyone is on the same page. When something comes up that isn’t in the budget, calmly say “No.” Practice in front of a mirror if you need to. Get your spouse to back you up.

Prevent the situations that cause the urge to overspend. If you know the kids will ask for treats when you go to the store, go alone or pack some goodies from home. Or set a limit like $2.

Plan ahead for impulse buys by training yourself to stick to your list. (See 10 Ways to Curb Impulse Buying.)

It is possible to follow a budget happily. By recognizing your money triggers, rethinking your needs, and coming up with a financial plan with your family, you can begin controlling overspending.

Related:

• The Emotions Behind Buying Stuff
• Top 10 Reasons People Overspend
• Getting Addictive Spending Behaviors Under Control
• Could Social Media Be Causing You to Overspend?
• The Subtle Psychology of Credit Cards and Overspending

Reviewed May 2023