Is Your Email Making you Broke?

We try to be careful with how we spend our money, and work hard at paying off debt and putting a little more away into our emergency fund. We meal plan and only shop with a list. We stay out of the stores. We turn down a night at the movies and skip a morning Dunkin’ run. And we are doing well!

And then we check our email.

Are you tempted by all the sales you suddenly see in front of you? You aren’t alone!

The other day I checked my email and as I was scrolling through, I suddenly had this thought…so many of my emails are trying to get my money! Basic ads with all those tempting deals!

Okay, looking at my email, here’s what I see…TARGET: Sale! Dress those kiddos in their fave…VICTORIA’S SECRET: Tonight Only! $5 Panty Happy Hour…OLD NAVY: ***$8 Tees*** …AERIE: 40% Off Everything Feel-Good…ULTA: New Must-Haves + 20% Off… And it just goes on! “You’re so close to your next reward.” “It’s your last chance.” “Just for you.” “You’re invited.”

And while I can usually pass up clicking on the ad, sometimes I just take a peek. I mean, I could use a new pair of jeans. I saw them at the store and they were soooo soft! Are they actually on sale? That would be waaay better than paying full price! Ugh! There have been plenty of times that I’ve  bought something ONLY because I happen to see it in my email.

I don’t know about you, but if you’re anything like me, even being disciplined I cave every once in awhile.

And we can justify that purchase, can’t we?

What if you scroll through and never, ever make a purchase? You’re really good at saying no and passing them by. Does this make it all fine?

Those emails are still reminding you on a daily basis what you’re missing, what your friends have, what you need. And I think over time, that message sinks in.

So what do we do?

I’m working at unsubscribing to many of those stores’ email lists.

Yes, I will keep some. There are truly some stores that I shop at and knowing when there’s a good deal can help if I need a gift. We want to spend as little as possible on those necessities. But the rest…ba’ bye!

Now my emails are what I can use. I only want what can add value to my life, not take it away. Business growth, personal growth, inspirational, friends…

So how about your inbox? Is it full of ads tempting you to give up your hard-earned money just to keep up with the family next door? Are you ready to give your inbox a makeover?