Temptations

I keep finding myself trying to buy a few things, even though I know I don't need them, and I know I don't have the money for them. But all the items together come to less than $100, adding to my struggle that it's okay to get them. But, I still know it's not. I've been checking these things out since Tuesday:

Two head bands from Lululemon:
Mesh Bang Buster Headband in Jewelled Magenta $18
Criss Cross Headband in Wee are from space Jewelled Magenta $14

Please note I have over 30 headbands in assorted sizes including a raspberry glo (also a bright pink) bang buster. But my head keeps shouting "but it's not mesh! The mesh will be so much cooler/practical for running! You must get it!". This is my fourth day of ignoring that voice and staying strong.

I've recently starting taking care of myself, and cleaning out my old make-up. Some of what I recently threw out had been in storage for 2 years and had a couple years life before then. So the Beauty Box 5 Limited Edition Classic Hollywood Mystery Box is tempting me. $39 + $15 shipping to Canada.

You may have noticed, I'm  subscripted to a couple beauty boxes which will do just find to replenish what needs replacement. I don't need this. Even if I feel I'll be missing out on some great value. 

The most ridiculous of all is the desire I've been fighting to buy a(nother) Meme Box even though I have yet to receive any of the three I have already bought. I don't even know if I trust beauty products from Asia, and I might have a minor concern about exposing myself and my family to more radiation than needed. I'm not sure of the environmental effect of these products, I don't want to harm the earth if I can avoid it. The cost of the boxes that are tempting me $23 (or $29) plus $6.99 shipping. 

I don't need these either. But my brain is again screaming "you don't want to miss out! C'mon, it's such a great deal!". My rational side, which has been winning, is pointing out it's not a great deal no matter what I pay if I don't need it, and it might end up as clutter. Paying my debt is waaaaaay more important. 

If these do interest you, can you use coupon code: AFFILIATE-0871-P8WRC-NUYF to save $5 off your order of $100 or more at check out.

I'll be trying to resist. I'm starting to wonder if knowing I don't have the money - this week, these purchased would all be on my credit card or line of credit makes the concept of spending money more abstract. These will add to my debt. I don't know what Lululemon does, but they have brainwashed me to not even consider/mind/be bothered by that fact. I'm programmed to think "Must. Have. Cute. Headband*. Now!). I've waited four days, and I still want them. I know these items will sell-out, and likely soon.  But will it matter if they do and I don't have them on the way? 

Nope. Not at all. 

What would you be doing to keep your strength and your (digital) money in your pocket?

*exchangeable with any Lululemon product.  

My biggest temptation: Lululemon

I think it's no secret to those who know me my biggest stress coping mechanism has come from Lululemon. It was never a problem until I emotionally fell apart, and started using my love of lulu (which is really strong) to help push me in the right direction. Even then, it wasn't so bad. At first. But, it did get out of hand. I know this because I have/had over 40 items listed on eBay that I haven't even taken the tags off. Almost all acquired innocently, and with good intentions.

I refused the brand for the longest time, and one of my boyfriends pushed me for years to try. He eventually just started buying me items from the causal line. A remix hoodie, some amazing knee socks, short shorts for my pole dancing class. This was back in 2007. By 2009, I bought my first running tights, technical shirt and a sports bra that (OMG) fit! I was hooked, mostly because I wanted to do more physical activity JUST to wear the clothes. I was (and still am to a lesser extent) very strict on only wearing my athletic clothes for athletic activities.

But now, I want need to get myself out of debt. Because much of my debt source comes from an emotional burden, I feel I would do best to clear it, and start fresh. A couple years of pushing myself, seeking to better myself psychologically, and growing stronger. I think it's important for my well being to get back to where I was when it all started to fall apart. I think I still mention everyday that I had over $30,000 in savings on the day my daughter was born. Then I start spiraling into focusing  on how I am now in $50,000+ of debt.

I've stayed away from Lululemon and many wonderful bloggers for a while, but I crashed last week. I found out last night that the black (and regular) camo speed shorts were to be uploaded last night. And the matching energy bra (my favorite before the baby for running). It was a rough night.

But I got through it. 

And I think it's time to be proud of myself, and focus on how I should  will be able to get my baby student loan to under $4000 this month. Which is going to feel much better than a pair of new shorts. That I might not even be able to wear for a year. Have I mentioned I currently have more pairs of shorts than days over 20 degrees Celsius where I live? 

What can get you to forget your goals and spend money like it's out of style? How do you fight your temptations?