How to Decide Whether to Buy Anything

To buy or not to buy, that is the question. Whether the consideration is about buying a piece of furniture, a new car or house, or even a small knickknack, buying on impulse is not usually wise. Without setting some rules about when and what to buy, many people who shop for fun spend more than they can afford or buy things that they never use. A few simple steps can help you to determine whether a purchase is prudent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Measure whether you really need to buy an item. Need is not want. Need means that if you do not buy it, you will suffer loss or lack. If your purchase is for something that you do need, your next question is to figure out how soon you really need it and whether or not you have time to do any comparison shopping. There is a spectrum of need that extends from indispensable items for life and health to items that complete a collection or a decorating scheme. For the purpose of this article, the assumption is that what you are thinking about buying is something that you do need and that you also have time to shop until you find the perfect option.
2. Set a price range that you are both willing and able to pay for the item you intend to buy. Then stick to these boundaries. This way you can prioritize the items on your need list so that you buy the most needed ones first. It also prevents getting into trouble with credit cards.
3. Evaluate the relative beauty or quality of an item, assuming that you do need to make a purchase and that you also have time to find the best possible item to buy. You should always buy the highest quality item in your price range. Don’t become distracted by something that merely grabs your attention unless it is also well made.
4. Visualize the item in the place where you will keep it or use it. Does it complement the other things that you already have? Will it dominate the space or blend in? Is it meant to be an accent piece or a focal point and does it fit the intended purpose? If you are not absolutely convinced about its suitability, leave it in the store.
5. Imagine that you already own the item. Then ask yourself if you would really miss it if you didn’t have it any more. Can you envision another item that would be more satisfying? Will you be disappointed if you do not get it?
6. Decide if the item you are considering will be “perfect” or not. Buy it if it is perfect. Keep shopping until you find the perfect one. Then you will rarely, if ever, experience buyer’s remorse.