Happy Cyber Monday, Internet! Today is the day when you remember every online retailer you've ever given your email to, because they send you their most festive newsletter and alert you to their holiday deals (OFTEN IN ALL CAPS.) Since it's easy to get excited today, what with all the dancing 40% off gifs, I've compiled a list of things to consider before you proceed to checkout.
1. Percentages can be tricky; actually do the math.
It helps to figure out exactly how much you're still paying after you take 25% or 30% off the price and then consider if a glitter waterfall iPhone case is worth that amount to you. It might be!
2. You came here to buy gifts, not to shop for yourself.
Probably. If you did come to shop for yourself, party on.
3. Are you willing to accept the risk of having to return what you buy?
If you're purchasing something risky, just remember that having to take it back to a store during the holidays will blow. Sending it back in the mail might not blow, but make sure returns are free or you could get boned by postage.
4. Is this brand always having sales?
Is the brand Gap? 'Cause then the answer is yes. This is just a friendly reminder that if you panic and buy a bunch of stuff you don't want because of an imaginary ticking clock, the retailers win.
5. Would people really want what you're getting them or are you being blinded by the sale?
I don't like most of the gifts I get during the holidays and I don't think I'm alone. Try and remember that the whole point of the sick gift-giving game we play is — to get people something they would like, not just whatever was cheapest on sale days and in a color they haven't specifically told you they hate.
6. Spending to save is just silly.
Please don't be fooled by all the "$50 off $150" deals out there unless you really want what you're ordering. There's a good chance you're still spending more than you expected, which can eat away at you later and deplete your funds for the whole (expensive) season.
Image via Thinkstock
Got a tip for The Bold Italic? Email tips@thebolditalic.com.