I'm having a "savings light bulb moment"

**graci42** · 01-05-2005, 08:02 AM

This is really gonna sound silly, but I'm trying to psych myself into a savings frame of mind. It occurred to me that I find satisfaction in spending money on insignificant things.

Clearance merchandise...my weakness...some things are great...a new lamp at $1.50...we did need additional lighting in the game room, but I could have continued using the ceiling fixture even though it isn't convenient to have to stand on a chair and plug in...old house ...wierd previous owner...giggle.

My point...I'll spend a 1.50 + tx on a convenience that won't last 10 yrs, but I won't spend (save) $1.50 on my future needs.

So I guess I'm gonna have to trick myself....You know that little high you get from acquiring something? That small moment of self-gratification that always puts a smile on your face? Welllllll....I'm gonna pretend that I'm spending that money--$5.00 a pay (until I feel I can "spend" more...hehehe). Even if I only manage to sock away a hundred a year, it's more than I had.

Why pretend I am spending it....If it's spent, it doesn't exist...I am spending it....on security. An intangible something, but valuable none the less.

**NYC Girl** · 01-05-2005, 08:59 AM

I like that idea! Can I pretend I bought a brand new car? LOL!!
Seriously...how about taking something out that you haven't used in a while and pretend you just bought it.

**BlessedMommy** · 01-05-2005, 09:11 AM

Good for you, Graci!
Sometimes that clearance shopping can be really dangerous. I used to be a Target clearance junkie. But then I started asking myself if I really NEEDED it, if I had a specific use for it (your lamp might have qualified, but not new placemats or something like that, KWIM?). Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in how much money is being saved (WOW, it's 75% off!!) without thinking how much it is costing ($.99 for this, 3.74 for that, 2.24 for that, $3.97 for one more cute thing, and all of a sudden there is $10 GONE!)
If it works for you, go for it!

**PrairieRose** · 01-05-2005, 09:41 AM

ITA with the dangers of clearance shopping. I try really hard not to buy clearance unless it is something that was already on my "look for on sale" list. I do sometimes buy gifts ahead but otherwise I steer clear of them for that very reason. I have a few gizmos that I'll never use, but by gosh they were on clearance!

Great going on the savings psyche! Have fun with it. Anything you do to make it more fun is worthwhile.

**guest2** · 01-05-2005, 09:44 AM

Great plan Gracie!

**pkellyc** · 01-05-2005, 02:25 PM

Clearance shopping is tough. I almost bought a couple of sets of snowman dishes @ $3 a set last night. But I stopped myself, I already own a place setting of 8 that I display in my hutch in the months of Dec. and Jan.. Why would I need more?

**paelthom** · 01-05-2005, 02:31 PM

I totally understand. I think I can spot a clearance sign a mile away - even if it's for stuff I don't need. I am trying to see how long I can go without indulging my shopaholic self. Clearance racks have the most pull on me though.......