We’ve all had those moments, haven’t we?

You’re browsing online, or walking through a shop, and suddenly you’re buying something you didn’t even know you wanted.

It’s easy to fall into spending traps, especially when we’re feeling emotional.

But understanding what makes us spend can be a real game-changer.

These ‘financial triggers’ are the things that influence our spending habits, sometimes for good, sometimes not so good.

Knowing your triggers is like having a map to navigate your spending.

It helps you make better choices and avoid those impulse buys that leave you feeling guilty later.

This self-assessment checklist will help you identify what might be influencing your spending habits.

Checklist:

• Do you shop when you’re feeling stressed?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you buy things to impress others?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you find it hard to resist sales and discounts?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you spend more when you’re feeling happy or celebrating?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you compare yourself to others financially?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you make impulse purchases when you are bored?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)
• Do you spend more when you see other people buying things?
  • Often (Strong Trigger)
  • Sometimes (Moderate Trigger)
  • Rarely (Weak Trigger)

Scoring:

• Mostly “Often” (Strong Triggers): You have strong financial triggers that influence your spending. It’s important to identify these triggers and develop strategies to manage them. For example, if you shop when stressed, try going for a walk or calling a friend instead.
• Mostly “Sometimes” (Moderate Triggers): You have moderate financial triggers that occasionally influence your spending. Awareness of these triggers can help you make more conscious choices. Before buying something, ask yourself if you really need it, or if you’re just reacting to a trigger.
• Mostly “Rarely” (Weak Triggers): You have weak financial triggers and are generally in control of your spending. Keep up the good work!

What to do next:

Once you’ve identified your triggers, you can start to develop strategies to manage them.

For example, if you find that you spend more when you’re bored, try finding a new hobby or activity to fill your time.

If you’re triggered by sales, unsubscribe from promotional emails and avoid browsing online shops.

Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about being aware of your habits and making positive changes.

By understanding your triggers, you can take control of your spending and build a healthier relationship with money.