There's an alternative to trying to spend your way to happiness, which will undoubtedly empty your bank account and add unnecessary clutter to your home and wardrobe. When you shop mindfully, you take a moment to reflect before you swipe your debit card and make sure that the things you're buying are meaningful, consistent with your values, and within your means. Hence, instead of succumbing to consumerism, use these thoughtful shopping tips to learn how to control your impulses and forge your own route away from the sales day crush.

• You might want to delete any shopping apps from your phone: You think you'll pass the time by casually perusing the newest bestseller list or fashion trends, but before you know it, a burrito blanket and a wardrobe full of brand-new clothes are on their way to your house. Remove applications from your device and unsubscribe from store newsletters to halt impulsive online purchases and protect yourself from fraudulent sales offers.

• Understand Your Triggers:  Acknowledge the emotions that lead to spending, such as fear of missing out or jealousy, and watch out for merchants who try to take advantage of these feelings by saying, for instance, that a product is limited in quantity. While Dr. Gareth Harvey, director of consumer psychology at communications agency Decide, cautions against shopping to elevate mood when you're feeling down, he also suggests recognizing when you're on a high and modifying your shopping habits accordingly. He claims that "you tend to evaluate things in a less critical way." "Studies reveal that when we're feeling good, we spend about 12% more money."

• Make use of a shopping list :A true bargain can only be found if you had planned to buy it anyway; impulsive purchases can result in overspending on frivolous items you didn't realize you needed. Counselor Georgina Sturmer states, "When we haven't taken stock of what we actually need to buy, shopping can feel overwhelming." "Make a list, take pleasure in crossing things off as you go, and know that you're not wasting money on things you don't need."

• Utilize the items you no longer need. Instead of just throwing away the items you've decluttered, consider donating them to a worthy cause or finding new homes for them through a freecycle group or online classified site. In addition to keeping an eye out for chances to trade in old, broken appliances to recycling initiatives, which can earn you discounts off the price of something new. It's worthwhile to get in touch with community groups to see if you can fulfill any local needs.

• Give it some time : Consider purchases carefully, especially large ones, and apply the 48-hour rule: write down the item's price and quantity, then give it some thought for a few days to decide if you still want it. You may be taken aback. Doing some introspection can also help you avoid falling for scams. Dewdney advises against hastily making a purchase. Scammers will attempt to employ pressure selling tactics, such as fabricating a sense of urgency around a purchase, making you feel as though you owe the salesperson money, or making exaggerated claims and promises.

• Consider where and how things are manufactured: Make deliberate decisions that consider a brand's or product's broader global impact. Cast your financial support for fair trade, environmentally friendly production, and secure working conditions. Refrain from fast fashion, over-packaging, and environmentally harmful behaviors.

''I hate last-minute shopping, it's always unsuccessful! Better be Mindful next time , haha ''  - Cat Deeley