Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Unshopping

It’s Cyber Monday. Are you burning up your keyboard buying more stuff? Or are you experiencing buyer’s remorse from Black Friday and all the specials you couldn’t pass up after Thanksgiving?

As a former retailer I want to share something more people should do but don’t. I call it Unshopping. No, it’s not a real word, but it’s a real thing I do. I’m not immune to the call of a new this or that? I get sucked into beautiful displays on occasion and rationalize on the spot how this item will be “so useful,” “perfect to tie an outfit together” or “just what my child would love.” I’ve lived to regret this moment more times than I care to admit, but I don’t live with it long or with the purchase that will make me feel worse every time I look at it. I return it. Pronto!

I know, you don’t want to face the same salesperson who sold it to you. It’s a “hassle” to take things back. You’ve “cut the tags off, argh, can’t return it.” Again, as a seasoned sales person, retail manager and unshopper, you absolutely can return it and should. Do it sooner than later.

Stores take back most purchases if unopened (and often even if opened)  and with the tags cut off. Bring the receipt and the tags, if you still have them, and make the return. Then leave the store and feel good that you won’t have to live with regret. We’re all human and it’s natural to want new things, but we don’t have to live with our impulse purchases and regret. Unshopping, pass the word.

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