Stop impulse buying

Use the HALT Method to Stop Impulse Buying


No matter how frugal we are, the urge to buy has the ability to creep up on any of us. Curbing this urge can be difficult, even to the most logical of people. It turns out, however, that logic may be precisely the thing that can save us. Giving in to your emotions, when they surround an object, can lead to a whole lot of unnecessary spending.

What is the HALT method?

HALT is an acronym for Hungry, Angry, Lonely and Tired. These four things can be main contributing factors in your desire to make an impulse purchase. Here's how you can use HALT the next time you feel the urge creeping up.

If I feel the urge to buy something outside of my budget, the first thing I think is, "When was the last time I ate?" If you're hungry, eat something. If you're angry, let it out to a friend. If you're lonely, reconnect with your people. Make a call. Or walk to your neighbor's. Take a nap if you're tired. If you address basic needs first, you will be less apt to use your wallet.

So by slowing down and replenishing your actual desires, you may be able to reassess your actual need for those sexy sandals or a fancy coffee shop latte.

How do you curb the urge to splurge?

Check out Moolanomy's full article over at How to Stop Impulse Buying!