Considered Consumption
SPEND BETTER: WHY A CONSIDERED SPLURGE IS BETTER THAN KNOCK-OFF REGRET
Why is it we feel the urge to spurge when times are tough? Research has shown that shopping can genuinely be a way to minimise feelings of sadness and to exercise a feeling of control when life throws us lemons.
However, this can lead to a life that fills up of things we don’t truly value and an emotional disconnect from our home environments. The answer? Consider your splurge. We all need a treat from time to time, but the key is to buy something really nice, that you really love. Here’s 5 simple tips to treat yourself in the best way:
When To Spend
Most luxury or artisan products will not go on sale. There is a reason your local artist, maker or independent boutique has priced it as such. That being said, many makers do offer a welcome discount on things like newsletter sign up, loyalty incentives or celebration discounts, so it is always worth keeping up to date with their marketing communications. If you’ve had your eye on something truly special, it’s worth putting aside a little nest egg to treat yourself with when you’re ready to purchase.
Buy Nice, Or Buy Twice
When making a ‘treat yourself’ purchase, the best thing is to go for quality. By all means shop around, but generally speaking, if you buy the budget version, you’ll inevitably end up wishing you'd just bought the one you really wanted all along. Our homes are important, fill them with things you love, that you really value.
Think
This is the one you really want to start practicing in order to fill your home with furniture and possessions that really add value to your life. It’s fine to spend a lot on things you’re going to use, that you love and that you will treasure. The problem is when we spend out on things we’re not sure on, we don't value, or that are bought on a whim to suit a trend. Find something you love, then take some time to think about how it will fit with the rest of your decor, whether you will still love it in 5,10, 15 years time.
What’s It Made Of?
Well made, high quality items will far outlast anything cheaply produced. As far as possible, natural materials are best and are considerably more environmentally friendly than cheaper alternatives. Independent makers and boutiques are gold mines for unusual, well made items that will add personality and a uniqueness to your home that big brands cannot hope to match.
Think Again
When we resist the urge to impulse buy and really take time to consider what it is and why we’re buying it, we understand much better the value of what we’re buying. If you’re buying from an independent, a lot of time and care has been put into making or sourcing that item, it’s only right we do the same when we buy.