Taming the grocery store is not as formidable as it sounds. It is a matter of understanding the store wants you to spend your money.

One thing everyone will tell you is to always shop with a list. The other thing is that you should never shop hungry. Both are important ideas.

Firstly, shopping hungry increases impulse buys, usually of more expensive, quick prep food items that catch our eye and stimulate the appetite. Once again the trap of buying something we want instead of something we need.

The grocery list; that dreaded piece of paper cluttering our purse or left on the table or counter where we were last writing on it. Think of it as a battle plan in the war on your money.

First thing I recommend is to find a store conveniently located for your own schedule and lifestyle. Analyze your life for a minute....are you a stay at home person who can shop at the grocery store down the street? Are you a working person who can shop near your place of employment? Do you have to pick up the kids before you can go shopping? The store nearest to home is great for those quick trips but with your schedule, if getting there causes stress then find a place to better meet your needs.

The second step in the plan is to familiarize yourself with the battlefield. That is learn how the store is laid out. Where are the products you buy?

The third step is the preparation of attack. The shopping list is written up in accordance to the store layout. If the store starts in the paper goods aisle then moves to sundries then write your list that way. Methodically plotting your way through the store helps to avoid back tracking; moving you through the store more quickly and efficiently.

It takes practice to get out of the store without buying extras. Shop from the list as faithfully as possible. You might want to begin with learning to "only pick up milk". To help accomplish this task, take only enough cash for your purchase and DO NOT take a cart or basket "just in case".

You CAN do it. Park your car, stride confidently into the store. Head straight for the dairy case and pick up your milk. Turn around and go straight to the cashier, then back out to your car and home. YOU DID IT!!!

Do you have any tips or ideas on how to win the battle of the grocery store? What about tips for shopping with your children? Email me.

J A C
Email All Consuming

* Please bear in mind that all opinions are just that - my personal opinion, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the owners/writers of this publications. No liability is assumed by this writer or publication.

"Sterling Moon is my favorite specialty coffee!" David E. Brown,
[Billy Joel's former lead guitarist for 11 years] Gloucester, MA

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