Adding a new jacket or limited edition sneakers to your overflowing wardrobe is never wrong. It feels good to have an outfit ready for every night out, but seeing the credit card bill at the end of the month feels equally regretful.
You are not alone; we have been victims of our impulsive choices at least once, especially as college freshmen with little financial planning and management knowledge. College is supposed to be the time to enjoy your youth. But sometimes, the spontaneous urges and wishes leave you in sticky situations.
You bear what you sow.
You won't have to suffer if you make mindful choices from the start. Impulsive decisions are highly influenced by personality traits and the environment. People use them as a response to stressful situations or a way to adapt to new surroundings.
College students also go through this episode at least once in their academic life. With so many possibilities, they often choose the least beneficial option and regret it later, like Leslie Hayes' junior year of college when he threw a grand party that humbled him for his entire life.
College is a social construct to help students build connections and learn about life. You will encounter many decision-making moments in this period; here is how to make good choices you won't regret.
Ask Yourself Why
Walk to the mirror and ask yourself why you want to do "THAT"?
"THAT" means any hasty decision to spend, drink, party, or procrastinate excessively.
Reflect on your inner self and ask the reason for this choice. For instance, a person might spend excessive amounts on clothes as a coping mechanism to distract themselves or gain social validation in their circle. Although this may not be the case for everyone, wearing something chic and smart always feels good, but buying it despite your monthly bills being left unopen in your mailbox is not a wise move. Once you have your answer, you can find a solution accordingly.
Build an Alternative Outlet for Your Impulsivity
When there's a will, there is a way. Channel your spontaneous energy into something productive. Let's continue with the previous example; if you like an outfit online, but it's a costly purchase, take a piece of paper and write down why you need it so badly. Once your list is ready, you will clearly understand the trigger behind your impulsivity. You can counter it by following the three ways:
- Try coming up with a less complicated solution: such as an alternative brand or making the outfit yourself.
- Some planning: What's better than saving up and making a planned purchase?
- Talk to someone: it can be your friend, parent, or partner. Ask for their suggestion to make the final move.
Less Stress, More Positivity, Less Impulse
A study by M. Raio and Konova proves that stressful situations are the primary driver of faster choices. Our brain, under pressure, often gets flooded with unhinged thoughts and irrational feelings, which pushes people to act on impulse. Try sitting in a positive environment and seek help when you feel your brain is overwhelmed with emotions before making a decision you may regret later.
Although dodging impulsive thoughts is not a walk in the park, it is still much better than cleaning a puked-on couch after waking up in your car's trunk. Sounds crazy? You can read more about the author's risky adventure and how he survived his college days in the book, "The Unofficial Guide to Surviving College." A brilliant and thought-provoking self-help book written by the father-son duo Leslie and Dr. Eugene Hayes.
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