There is a Jewish prayer in which we ask G-d to not lead us to temptation. For all those on tight budgets, we need to do this. What I mean is that if you have no money, or if you need your money for other things, you have to avoid stores and sales unless you need something specific.

For example, I’ve been trying to avoid JCPenney and Kohls lately, because I know that I’ll find things I like, and then it takes willpower to resist spending money that I need for my kids’ school supplies. Just today, I was out with my kids and my mom. We did go to JCPenney because I needed to get school shoes for the kids, but in the end, Payless gave a better deal, so I got them there. Then, my mom wanted to find something at Kohls, so we went with her. It took a TON of willpower for me to avoid some of the Croft and Barrow clothes on sale. Many of them suit my style and flatter my figure, and if I had the money, I would go wild.

On one hand, I feel better about myself knowing that I have the willpower to resist. On the other hand, I wish I had the money so that I wouldn’t have to. Let’s just say that I won’t be shopping much until we get more income.

Also, I have found that the less I shop, the less I want!  Once you get over that first hurdle and stop looking at ads and browsing in the women’s department when you are supposed to be getting dress shirts for your husband, the desire to buy seems to decrease.

Way to go Maz! tough times, tough measures.

This is where I learnt to appreciate the milder style statement of classic clothing. It carries you thru the lean years without feeling bad.

I completely agree with your tip Maz on staying out of temptation aka the shops. Reworking what I have, and reminding myself that others are way worse off, being thankful for what I have are all a help in tough times.