Black Friday – Want & Needs or not?

A definition for a need suggested by Jorge Baba from Game-Changer is "something that solves an actual or imaginary problem."

A want is simply something that we’d like to have for whatever rational or irrational reason.

Occasionally, we get a deal that we just can’t refuse. But there are always deals that are too good to be true. Usually we know that something is too good to be true when it sounds too good to be true. Now mostly on days like 24 November 2017 aka Black Friday here in South Africa, people rush around in a rather impulsive manner to buy things. Some of these things they need or want but there is definitely a big risk of buyer’s remorse on this fun day.

The reason why is because of the excitement that is created by advertisers. The sense of urgency created by having these deals for one day only and the huge number of crowds and traffic drawn to the local stores. People tend to want everything on a better price and when they can’t get what they want for the better price, they are more likely to spend money full price on things they would probably not have bought on any other day.

I was lucky and unlucky this year on Black Friday. I spent money on stuff that I want but probably should have saved my money on. And then there was the R100 bargain which was so worth the buy that I felt exhilarated by the feeling of gain of such a great item at that price. These emotions indicate a possibility of a “Black Friday Addiction”, if not managed correctly.

Some offers we think we can’t refuse, we should refuse. This is called self-preservation and is a good thing to do. There is nothing wrong with waiting a little longer before you indulge. Be sure what you want. If you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything. That is why it is important to strive for clarity in your wants and needs. Don’t let other people convince you of what you want and need if you are not in your heart and mind convinced also. Take back control of your wants and needs and stick to these.

Happy shopping, and as always.

Keep Improving

-The Ameliorate Team