85% off this Black Friday Sale? Resist the Urge!

Hi Reader,

Welcome to The Money Series and if you are new here, thank you for signing up. Personal Finance can feel ambiguous and overwhelming, but I am here to help simplify the journey.

Black Friday is just days away, and before you dive into the discounts and deals, let’s have a word. We need to discuss how to approach these sales with intention before you find yourself with a cart full of items you didn’t plan to buy.

Have you ever been lured into buying something just because it was on sale, only to realize later that you didn’t need or truly want it? Or have you genuinely been waiting for Black Friday sales to get some items? Sales like Black Friday can be a great opportunity to save, but only if you’re mindful of your spending.

As always, today’s letter isn’t about being miserly—it’s about being deliberate. It’s about spending your money intentionally, getting what truly adds value to your life, and avoiding the regret that can come with mindless shopping.

Here are some tips that can help you shop smarter this Black Friday:

Shop With a Purpose

Write down what you actually need before you even look at the deals. Whether it’s a new appliance, a holiday gift, or an upgrade you’ve been planning, having a list allows you to be focused and reduces distractions. Ask yourself: Do I need this? Is this in my budget? Does this item serve a purpose or fill a genuine need? Can this wait until later? Would I buy this at full price? Can I afford it comfortably? If it’s not already on your list, it’s probably not something you truly need. A sale is probably not a good deal if you didn’t need the item in the first place.

Avoid the Hype

Retailers are very good at creating a sense of urgency. They’ll tell you it’s your “last chance” or that the sale is “exclusive,” but the truth is sales happen all the time. Pause before purchasing. Take 24 hours to decide if you still want or need the item.

Research prices across different vendors and shopping sites to know whether the discount is real or just a marketing ploy.

Set a Budget (and Stick to It)

Decide how much you’re willing to spend before Black Friday begins.

• Break it into categories—e.g., gifts, personal, home.

• Only use money you already have (avoid credit cards if possible).

Leave room for unexpected deals and splurging, but don’t go over your budget. Do the maths - How many hours do I need to work to afford this (Item’s price/your hourly pay rate)?

Protect Yourself Online

If you’re shopping online, make it harder for yourself to spend impulsively:

• Don’t save your card details. Re-entering them gives you time to reconsider.

• Use guest checkout. Skip the convenience of saved accounts.

• Don’t subscribe to the newsletters and deals updates

• Shop on secure networks. Avoid public Wi-Fi for online purchases

Remember that it’s not a One-Time Event

If you miss a deal, don’t panic—another one will come. Cyber Monday, post-holiday sales, and year-end clearance events may offer even better discounts. Remember that Black Friday is not your only chance to save.

Don’t Forget Returns

Sometimes, you only realize a purchase was unnecessary after you’ve bought it. Buy items from stores with a return policy, keep the tags on, and keep your receipts. Returns are your safety net!

Remember the Bigger Picture

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of sales, but no purchase can guarantee lasting happiness. Black Friday deals are fleeting; your financial goals are not🌚. Shopping mindfully helps you stay in control of your money and your choices.

This Black Friday, commit to being a mindful shopper.

Here’s to shopping with intention and walking away with only what truly matters.

Feel free to send in your questions!

Act Now: 

• Decide on your budget for this year’s Black Friday and deduct any amount you have spent already

Reflect on This:

• Are there items from the last sale you participated in that you still haven’t opened or used?

Till next week, I am rooting for you, money-ly!

Dee         

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Disclaimer: This does not constitute financial advice. Please conduct your research or consult your financial advisor for important financial advice.