What if I didn't buy it?
February 6, 2024
I am not sure if it’s an extension of the holiday season shopping habits, endless emails for sales and promotions, the new years or what but since the start of this year, I’ve found myself clicking “add to cart” more often than I’d like. What I’ve noticed is that it’s easy for me to click ‘add to cart’ but it’s been taking a lot more for me to complete the check out process, only because I ask myself one question - what if I didn’t buy it?
Yes, that’s it. It’s simple and to the point but it works so I think it’s worth sharing. I consider what life would look like if I didn’t have whatever amazing item I was about to buy.
A few weeks ago I was thinking I need a new pair of Lululemon leggings and soon after, it’s like the universe was listening and I received a 25% off coupon from Lululemon in my inbox. I immediately went to their website ready to shop. I don’t often shop at Lululemon but all of my small collection of workout clothing is from there so I knew exactly what I was going to buy. I was planning on getting 2 pairs of leggings - one to replace an old pair that I’ve repaired myself once already and for the second pair, I wanted one that has a fleece lining because it happened to be -40°C in Calgary that week. This was going to be a $200+ purchase even with the discount so I paused. I asked myself what if I didn’t buy it? What if I didn’t replace my leggings? Well, I will probably keep wearing what I have and it might last another year, maybe even longer. What if I didn’t buy that pair of fleece lined leggings? Well, I tend to stay indoors as much as I can when it’s -40°C out so it’s not something I’d wear much. In past Winters, sometimes I make do by wearing fleece lined tights under my leggings and it has worked well so I’ll probably just keep doing that.
Next, I asked myself would I rather spend the money on something else? Yes. Absolutely! I have some trips I want to take this year and I would much rather put the money towards that. Ok, then it’s decided. Close the browser and walk away.
That is just one example of the many instances this past month when I was tempted to buy something. Every time the result turned out the same. I am totally fine living without it. I can continue to make do without it and I am happy to put the money towards something else instead.
So, the next time you find yourself clicking “add to cart,” don’t be so quick to complete the check out by first asking yourself, what if you didn’t buy it?