How to stop yourself from buying things you don't need

5 questions to ask yourself before a spending splurge

Jewelry store.
(Image credit: iStock)

A splurge, a little something to treat yourself, an impulse buy: Whether it's a fancy hot chocolate or a fabulous cashmere sweater, there's no question that buying something nice for yourself can be a rush. But is that rush going to linger as a warm glow, or turn into regret? Life is too short to waste time feeling guilty about money. With a little common sense, you can treat yourself without feeling bad about it. Before you swipe your credit card, ask yourself these questions:

1. How does this purchase fit into the context of my larger financial goals?

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Amanda Gladin-Kramer

Amanda Gladin-Kramer is an attorney and writer living in Durham, North Carolina. She attended Tufts University, University College London, and the University of North Carolina. Her writing interests include legal issues, travel, health, and personal finance.