Sometimes you wind up at a mall when you really didn’t want to be there. Usually, that means you are accompanying someone who does want to be there. So now, you are where there are lots of places you can spend lots of money but you really don’t want to do that. It’s possible to enjoy what’s there without buying anything. The trick is to change how you think about the shops.
You can pretend you are at a library when it’s actually a store that sells t-shirts, bumper stickers, greeting cards, etc. Enjoy reading them then remember you have enough to read at home so you don’t need to buy more.
What if you act as if a store is a playground. Play with the toys or electronics. Relax in the luxury recliner. Build something at a display of Lego blocks. When you are done. leave the toys there for others to play with.
Maybe you are visiting an art gallery. Admire the paintings, sculptures, knick knacks, etc. Resist the urge to take some home by reminding yourself how much you hate to dust.
How about a visit to a gym (sporting goods store)? Check out the equipment. Try out the exercise machines. Now walk away; walking is good exercise too.
Have you ever stopped at an imagination station? Many people call it an optical store. Try on several frames as if you were thinking about buying new glasses. Then think about who you would be if you wore frames like those. Decide you like yourself as you are and move on.
Oh, there are so many ways to not shop once you can see the stores differently.
TTYL,
Linda