Hi, my name is Kim and I am an impulse buyer. Once someone in my family says they “need” something, I go to work finding it online.

I also subscribe to many sites that offer me deals for a limited time or because I am a preferred customer. Add the words rewards or cash back and it’s over.

Here are a few steps I have done to help with my problem:

1. I have unsubscribed to many site mailing lists. I know where to find them if I need them.

2. I am only allowing an item in if one leaves (or two or three…).

3. I am waiting 24 hours in all online purchases, 48 hours if it came from an email.

4. I have developed a budget for these items as well as a list of things we need like sneakers for kid #4.

Hopefully these few rules will keep me on track this year.

What are your impulse buys? How you you avoid them? Drop your tips here. I could use them.