Why You Should Stop Extreme Couponing
Maybe you’ve heard of it or maybe you’ve seen it. Either way, the show “Extreme Couponing” on TLC has garnered mixed emotions, of which the majority are negative…
Some ask, “Why do you need 15 cans of shaving cream?” Extreme couponers would answer, “Because they were free!” (and, I’ll admit, such an adrenaline rush to score)! But, that doesn’t exactly mean they came without a price, and I’m not talking about tax. Oftentimes, couponers will find themselves not spending as much quality time with family members as they once did, or they may let the house go, or even themselves (sadly, I know this first hand). This actually exhibits addictive behavior and can be unhealthy! That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to share some ways that you can still save money, and catch your breath, at the same time!
How To Stop Extreme Couponing
Buy two or three Sunday papers, rather than the 20. Or, ask friends and family members if you can have their coupon inserts each week. This way, you’ll still be able to snag sweet (and even free!) deals, but won’t have to put in overtime to get them.
Take note that most coupons have a limit to how many “like” products you can buy. Chances are, you really don’t need more than that amount listed, anyway, so follow the rules and save yourself some stress.
Please be courteous and do not clear shelves with your coupon freebie frenzy. Maybe even pay it forward and leave an extra coupon on the shelf next to the item for the next shopper!
Look for coupons for items you might not normally buy and pair them up with a sale at the store. Who knows, it might become your new favorite “thing” and it’s always fun trying something new. Sure, some people are picky, but in all honesty, there are some brands that just work better than the ones you could get for 10 cents with coupons, and not everyone in your family may agree on the same product.
Be a coupon fairy! This goes with #3 above. If you have extra coupons, leave them next to the item for those who might be looking to save on it, too! Doesn’t it feel good knowing that you helped someone save money on something they needed to buy, anyway? Plus, karma!
Consider ditching the weekly coupon inserts, and use apps like Ibotta and even just resort to printing coupons online at coupons.com (you can print two coupons per device, depending on the site) – hint: if you are looking for Military Commissary and Exchange coupons, head on over to MyMilitarySavings.com to print them there as well!
Don’t let couponing consume you. Yes, that’s pretty much the point of the article. But in all seriousness to regain your sanity, cut back the hours you spend couponing, and spend more time with your family and friends. And, don’t be afraid to splurge on yourself; after all that time you spend saving money, you deserve to treat yourself to something nice every once in a while. That, my friends, is priceless.