When Planning Doesn't Pay

In general, I am a big planner. While I can seem very spontaneous and my methods constantly change, they are always backed with a logical plan. For the most part, I believe that my planning saves me quite a bit of money, especially when it comes to groceries. However, I have realized this is not always the case.

While going through my "in" box next to our computer (a task I do not do often enough), I ran across a list I had made a little over a month ago. Each season change I go through our clothes, toss damaged items, store clothes the kids have outgrown, and rearrange bureaus. I then write a list of the items I need to purchase to fill in the gaps for the upcoming season (pants, jackets, gloves, etc.). Since I never know exactly how many shirts, sweaters, socks, or pairs of pants my children will need, it winds up being an educated guess. I then hit up my favorite thrift stores and check the items off my list.

This year, with so much extra stuff going on, time has gotten away from me and I never actually went out shopping for the clothes on the list. I have picked up an item here or there that were great deals I spotted on regular outings, but I never followed my plan.

Yet, despite having only purchased a fraction of the items on my list, as the weather has cooled, my children have been appropriately clothed.

So often we think we need more than we do. When faced with not having exactly what we need, it is amazing how simple it can be to make things work. A couple of times my daughter had to wear a pair of my son's old pajamas and my son has had to wear an extra shirt to make up for not having enough sweaters, but they have been warm and comfortable every day.

Next time you start to plan your purchases, consider pushing the envelop and going without until you just cannot push it anymore. You will surprise yourself with how much you can make do with what you all ready have. Just this once, toss the lists, throw out your plans, and consider doing nothing. Let need dictate what you spend your money on as opposed to desires, assumptions or plans.

Find more great homemaking tips at: Raising Homemakers and Women Living Well.