Before You Open Your Wallet...

'If you often reach for your credit card to buy those dream shoes, with no idea of how you're going to pay off the bill – stop!' says Grainne O'Malley, author of More Than Money: 7 Steps To Wealth And Prosperity.

According to recent research, millions of women say they can't resist a bargain – and yet, can't afford to save, either.

So, the next time you're standing in front of that must-have dress, ask yourself the following three things:

Do You Want It Or Do You Need It?	You need it if... you've been planning on buying this item for a long time - in other words, it's a premeditated purchase and you'll wear it regularly. 'Ensure you're buying on your own terms, and not the shop's,' says O'Malley. You want it if... you've already got nine dresses just like it in your wardrobe. Walk away. Now. Repeat offender? 'Think about why you're really trying to cheer yourself up,' says O'Malley. 'One shopping fix will only make you crave another, and won't resolve your underlying problem, whether it's work, friends or man-related.'
Can You Really Afford It?
Do You Have To Buy It Now?

Author: Katy Massey