but I got it on marketplace

By: Hollie Kowalski
Encompass Outreach & Event Coordinator


There is a reason the phrase “for richer or poorer” is included in the marriage vows. Money is the second leading cause of divorce (behind infidelity.) Regardless of how much you love your spouse, money can be a major source of frustration and contention in a relationship… especially when you love to shop and OH, HOW I LOVE TO SHOP!  I love it even more when there is a good deal to be had!  I mean who can resist a “like new” accent chair in the exact color of the living room for HALF the original price? (Not me.)  My dopamine receptors go crazy when I click that Marketplace tab and find aaaall the things!
 
My easy-going husband is so good to me. He loves to hear excitement in my voice. So, when I start to talk about all the great deals I’ve found during the week on Marketplace, it’s cute and makes him giggle… until it doesn’t. When it’s time to get serious about saving money, I steer clear of the Marketplace tab. Here are a few suggestions that you might find helpful as I have, when I am trying to save money: 

1. Remove the Temptation- I choose to avoid the Marketplace tab so I won’t be tempted. Remove temptation and encouragement to shop by unsubscribing from your favorite store newsletters. Stay off those tempting shopping websites. Stop window shopping, reading magazines, and following shopping recommendations from your favorites on social media. Where do you enjoy spending money? Steer clear of those locations! 
2. Delay your Purchase- Give yourself at least 48 hours to think about your purchase before clicking “Order Now.”  This will eliminate impulse spending. Many times after my “shopping pause” the desire passes and I’m able to do without that specific item. 
3. Track your Spending- Spend 30 days tracking your spending habits. Talk about an eye-opening experience! Write it ALL down. Your purchases for the month AND the items you nearly bought but decided to do without. Sometimes seeing the amount saved will give you the same rush as spending! It will also make you aware of the money you COULD BE saving. 
4. Try a Shopping Ban- Make a 30-day commitment not to shop for anything that isn’t essential. (No excuses!) Write it down to hold yourself accountable. 
5. Declutter- Remove unwanted items from your home. As you actively give things away, you’ll find that the joy you received from purchasing those items, was fleeting. Realize that purchasing new items will only bring temporary joy as well. 

If you need help navigating your finances within your relationship, feel free to get in touch! Encompass dedicates an entire section to financial health and healing in our RINGS experience . 

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