It’s difficult to sort through the noise and figure out what you actually need sometimes.
Meet the Expert
Will This Bring Me Joy in the Long-Term?
We often buy things because it will bring us joybut that’s not necessarily long-lasting.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
“Joy is lasting, but dopamine is fleeting,” Shields says.
“If the excitement fades the moment you buy it, thats a red flag.
Try waiting 24 hours and see if the ‘spark’ is still there.
If it doesnt light you up after a day, its not worth it.”
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Am I Buying It Just Because It’s on Sale?
There are sales on items every single day.
“Sales are sneaky,” she says.
“They trick you into thinking youre saving money when youre really just spending it.
Ask yourself if youd buy this item at full price.
If the answer is no, walk away.”
Is This Overly Trendy?
While some trends do wind up having longevity, a lot of them are fleeting.
“Trends come and go, but clutter is forever,” Shields says.
“Minimalism is all about timeless, not trendy.”
Is This an Upgrade?
“Replacement shopping is smart shopping,” Shields says.
“But if it’s just adding to your stash without letting go of something else, rethink it.
see to it you’re not just accumulating.”
McDermott also suggests asking yourself a similar question: “Will this item have a permanent home?”
Or employ a one-in one-out rule to ensure these things don’t build up over time.
How Often Will I Use It?
You should, more often than not, check that your purchases are also investments.
“If it’s less than three, put it back.”
