REWIRE YOUR BRAIN TO OUTSMART THE SALES (AND GROW RICHER)

Prevent those “But I only popped out for 

mascara” overspends by dodging the

shops’ tricky techniques

TRICKY TECHNIQUE 1:

COST-SLASHING   COMPARISONS

Research shows we’ll spend more if we can see how much we’re saving. That’s why you see percentages: 30% off sounds better than £21 off a £70 top.

Outsmart it: If it’s an item of clothing, ask yourself where and when you’ll wear it... if the answer’s not forthcoming, don’t try it on, says Jonah Lehrer, author of How We Decide. Once you’ve slipped into those jeans, your brain will subconsciously take possession of them.

TRICKY TECHNIQUE 2:

 LIMITED TIME ONLY OFFERS

Bargain-driven websites like Groupon and time-sensitive sales can incite panic in consumers and inspire impulse buying, says psychologist Dr Kit Yarrow.

Outsmart it: If you’re saving for a house or a holiday, make those abstract goals tangible so they’re more able to compete with a  cashmere jumper on sale right here, right now, says Lehrer. Use a photo of a house or Mount Kilimanjaro as wallpaper on your phone so you see it all the time.

TRICKY TECHNIQUE 3: 

PUSHING BACK PAYMENTS

Think furniture ads: “Pay no interest until 2015!” This strategy convinces your brain that the expenditure won’t hurt, because you don’t have to pay today.

Outsmart it: Resolve to pay for things in full – and use cash. Research shows that the more “unreal” (ie plastic) the form of currency, the likelier you are to spend. Leave the credit cards at home and swap the five twenties in your wallet for two fifties. Psychologically, they’re tougher to break.

TRICKY TECHNIQUE 4: 

S-A-L-E AND WHAT THAT  4-LETTER WORD DOES TO YOUR  BRAIN

A sale sets off a tug of war between two parts of your brain – the nucleus accumbens (a pleasure centre that reacts to things we want) and the insula, which processes pain and thereby stops you overspending. “A sale assuages the insula,” says Lehrer. “The pain subsides when you feel you’re getting a good deal.”

Outsmart it: Check the website to see if the store is stocking the item and give them a ring. Chances are they won't be able to hold it, but you lesser the chance of a wasted trip.
Also, make sure to enquire what the returns policy is on sale items. If it is exchange only, leave the shop and think whether you truly need it. 

http://www.womenshealthmag.co.uk/life-skills/money/413/rewire-your-brain-to-outsmart-the-sales-and-grow-richer/