2 Simple Laws of Coupons and Sales

I just purchased something online and used a promo code/coupon to save some money. That made me think about several clients that have told me that they use coupons and take advantage of sales but still end up overspending.

Think about it. Have you ever walked into a grocery store with good intentions to sticking to your grocery list (you are using a grocery list, right?) and then end up with $20-$100 more in groceries than you intended? Then you justified this by saying well I just could not pass up a sale like this! Hmmmmm.....

If you find yourself doing this here are the 2 Simple Laws of using Coupons and Sales (Plus a 3rd bonus Law) -

1. Only use coupons on items that you have already decided to buy!
2. Only take advantage of sales on items that you've already decided to buy!
3. Read Law 1 & 2 over again!

Stores create sales and coupons for one purpose only, and unfortunately it is not their #1 goal to save you money, no matter what they say! Sales and coupons are made to do one thing! To make you want to buy, buy and buy!

So the next time you see a sale or coupon. Stop. Breathe. And ask yourself, "is this something that I already wanted to buy?" If so......then what are you waiting for? Throw it in the basket. If not then just keep on walking and keep your money!

Carlos Frank
Personal Financial Coach
www.nextmoneystep.com