How To Always Get Your Money's Worth
We've all been there. You're at the store, eyeing up that new TV/shirt/pair of shoes that you just have to have, when you suddenly remember that you're on a budget. But never fear! Here are a few simple tips to help you become a smarter consumer and stick to your budget.
1. Set A Budget and Stick to It
This one seems like a no brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people don't do it. Before you even set foot in the store (or open up that web browser), take a moment to figure out how much money you can afford to spend. Once you know your limit, make sure to stick to it! It can be easy to get caught up in the moment and overspend, but if you stick to your budget, you'll thank yourself later.
2. Do Your Research
If you're planning on making a big purchase, it's important to do your research ahead of time. Know what features you want and need, and compare prices between different stores or brands. There's nothing worse than spending your hard-earned money on something only to find out later that you could have gotten it cheaper somewhere else. By taking the time to do your research ahead of time, you can be confident that you're getting the best deal possible.
3. Know When to Splurge...And When to Save
There's nothing wrong with spending a little extra money on something that you really want or need. But there's also no need to spend more than necessary just for the sake of it. For example, if you're looking for a new pair of jeans, spending a little extra for a quality pair that will last longer is probably worth it. However, if you're just looking for a cheap pair to wear out on the weekends, there's no need to spend more than necessary. Knowing when to splurge and when to save will help you stay within your budget while still getting the things that you want and need.
4. Be Willing to Walk Away
This one can be tough, especially if you've had your heart set on something for a while. But sometimes the best thing you can do is walk away and wait awhile before making a purchase. If an item is truly meant for you, it will still be there (or something similar will be) when you're ready to buy it. If it's not meant for you, then chances are good that you would have ended up regretting the purchase anyway. Either way, by waiting awhile before making a purchase decision, you give yourself time to cool off and make sure that it's really something that you want or need before handing over your hard-earned cash.
5. Get Your Money's Worth
Listen. Sometimes you just don't have the time, energy, nor desire to be the smartest consumer. You're not truly being swayed by marketing gimmicks and upsells. You simply want what you want, when you want or need it, and are trying to get the best deal possible in that moment. I, for one, am right there with you and there are a ton of us in this community who have done the same! Therefore, we're okay with knowing that we may not be making the best purchasing decision, we should, at minimum, ensure that we're getting something of value other than the product or service itself out of the deal. That is what HOOF It! Rewards is all about. We make it easy to become smart enough consumers. Just stop my HOOF It! before you shop online and in person!
Following these simple tips can help anyone get their money's worth and become a smart enough consumer. Next time you're at the store (or browsing online), take a moment to think about your budget, what you're really looking for, and whether or not you're truly getting your money's worth before making any decisions--you'll be glad you did!
Thanks for reading!