I don’t love shopping, especially with the kids, but there is definitely something to be said for a little retail therapy every now and again. That is why it’s called retail therapy, after all, because it makes us feel better about ourselves. There is an undeniable therapeutic benefit in that.
So, you may be thinking what is retail therapy, exactly, and how do I get my health insurance to cover it? The Macmillan English Dictionary defines retail therapy as “the activity of shopping in order to make yourself feel happier.” Here’s the thing about retail therapy, though… it may make you feel good in the moment but, unfortunately, you’re going to be literally paying for it after the fact; so it’s important to partake, only in moderation.
I think the reason I don’t love shopping is because we live a very budgeted and clutter-free lifestyle. Thinking about unnecessarily parting with money gives me the sweats. And, having lots of extra “stuff” around the house is a huge no-no in our household (unless we’re talking toy dinosaurs… in that case we have a million and they are all over the place).
But on the very rare times I do splurge, I do it right. So, I’ve assembled some tips for you when indulging in a little retail therapy.
Here are a few steps to take to get the positive therapeutic value without the negative repercussions on your bank statement.
- First of all, make sure you have on a good bra! If you’re trying on clothes, you want to look your best. If you put on a beautiful dress over a sports bra; you’ll look frumpy and that will do nothing for your self-esteem or your happiness.
Shave your legs! So many times, I’ve gone shopping and refused to come out of the dressing room because I realize I forgot to shave my legs and I look like an actual orangutan. It’s so hard to get a good idea of how you look in a particular outfit when you’re crammed in that tiny dressing room. Step out of the dressing room and check your look out in the BIG mirror. Set yourself up to look and feel confident.
Bonus points for doing your hair and makeup, too! The whole point of this shopping trip is to feel better about yourself, and that is just not going to happen if you’re looking like a hairy-frump-monster!
2. Take a selfie. Or, ask your shopping partner (or even a stranger) to take your picture. This is twofold. First of all, I’m sure we’ve all been to stores that have a less than accurate mirror situation going on. I know, for sure, I’ve been shopping, looked great in the mirror, and then gotten home and looked totally different. DON’T BE DUPED. If you take a pic (of course not in the reflection) you will get a more accurate representation of how you look in that outfit. This will minimize disappointment and shoppers remorse when you get home and make a return trip less likely.
The second reason to snap a selfie is because you’ll want to know how the outfit photographs. So many of our memories are digitized these days. An outfit that doesn’t photograph well can haunt you forever.
3. Know your budget before you head to the store! This is a big deal guys, because your financial stability is a big deal. Like I said if you go overboard… you will literally pay for it! It’s not just important to know your budget; you need to stick to it as well. When I am shopping, I am constantly doing math in my head… but it is worth it. This might mean making some tough decisions. You may need to end up pining over something until your next retail therapy sess. But, in the long run, it will be for the better.
4. Here is my final piece of advice, (and one that is so near and dear to my heart)… for every thing you buy, donate one you already own. Seriously, a piece of clothing does not enter my closet without something leaving. For real. NO ROOM AT THE INN. At all times, I have a “Goodwill” bag in my house. Every time something new comes into the house, something old goes in the bag. And when the bag is full; we donate it. This alleviates overcrowding and clutter while also serving to help others. And I can’t think of a single, more therapeutic act than helping out those who are less fortunate.
Retail therapy may seem like a meme in the making, but, don’t knock the legit benefits of a peaceful day, taking in pretty things, and chatting with pals. You’ll return home feeling renewed and refreshed.
What is your favorite spot to hit up for a bit of retail therapy? Is it Target? I bet it’s Target. Let us know in the comments!
