Ever seen something you really want and felt that urge to buy it straight away? It’s like a little voice whispering, ‘Treat yourself!’

But those impulse buys can quickly add up and derail your savings plans.

The ’30-day rule’ is a simple trick to help you resist those urges and make different spending decisions.

The Money Part: How the 30-Day Rule Works

• Make a List: Write down any non-essential items you want to buy.
• Wait 30 Days: Don’t buy anything on the list for 30 days.
• Reassess: After 30 days, ask yourself if you still want the item.
• Prioritise: If you still want it, decide if you can afford it within your budget or if you need to save for it.

This rule helps you avoid impulse purchases and make more thoughtful spending choices.

The Real Life Part: Gaining Control and Avoiding Regrets

It’s not just about saving money.

It’s about the feeling of control that comes with resisting temptation, the satisfaction of making a conscious choice, and the relief of avoiding buyer’s remorse.

Think about the feeling of buying something on a whim and then regretting it a few days later. Or the frustration of realising you’ve overspent and now can’t afford something you really need.

The 30-day rule helps you avoid those situations.

• Reduced Impulse Spending: It helps you resist the urge to buy things you don’t really need.
• Clearer Priorities: It makes you think about what you truly value and what’s worth spending money on.
• More Money for Goals: It frees up cash for your savings goals, like a holiday or a house deposit.

The 30-day rule is a simple but effective way to take charge of your spending and save for what matters.

Tips:

• Keep Your List Handy: Put it somewhere you’ll see it regularly, like on your fridge or phone.
• Distract Yourself: When the urge to buy strikes, find a distraction, like going for a walk or calling a friend.
• Visualise Your Goals: Focus on what you’re saving for to stay motivated.
• Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge and reward yourself for resisting temptation.

The 30-day rule is a tool for reducing impulse spending and saving more money. It’s about being mindful, patient, and in control of your finances.