The Power Of Proclaiming Your Frugality

“I don't do credit cards anymore” is my new sales clerk thing now. I hate being asked to sign up for things almost as much as they hate asking.

Proclaiming my frugality sort of humanizes me in those situations, too. I'm no longer a quota to be met; I'm a person on a budget, just like them. I've shared quite a few brief but pleasant conversations on frugality with salespeople since. And it's just because I'm open about my aversion to overspending.

I tried this trick recently, when shopping for a birthday gift. I bought a watch for my boyfriend, and as I was checking out, I noticed a really beautiful women's watch. The saleslady noticed me notice it and kept trying to sway me to buy it until I finally said, “No, I'm saving up my money, and I just can't afford this right now.” She stopped hawking the watch and gave me a five-minute pat on the back about being young and financially independent. It made me feel good about my habits and better about not buying that watch.

There is power in proclaiming your frugality.

Are you sometimes reluctant about being honest when it comes to your budget? If so, why? And what benefits have you found in proclaiming your frugality?

null

« First ‹ Previous 1 2 3