Do You Shop 'til You Drop?

photo from academylighting.com

After watching Extreme Couponing last month, I've thought quite a bit about couponing and keeping life in perspective.   It's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of the next good deal.  I know I've had my moments.  But I try to keep them to a minimum.

I've seen new couponers come and go. They've spent twice the money they normally would, and have nothing in the house to put a meal together.  Even though their pantry, cabinets, basement, closets, and garage are stuffed to the gills. 

I can't imagine going back to my "former life" and paying full price everything. Here is what I do to keep myself from overdoing.

• Budget - I quit shopping when I reach my limit.
• Menu Plan - I menu plan out of my pantry with what I've already bought.  That leaves most of my budget for the next week's best deals.
• Needs - Perishables and things I have to buy come first in the budget.
• Keep an Eye on the Stockpile - When I menu plan, I look for what I'm getting low on.  These  are the items I start watching for the next great deal on.
• Take a Break - Depending on time, mood or other family activities, sometime I don't shop, much. 

Do you ever feel like your shopping 'til you drop?  What strategies do you use to keep from overdoing?

If you haven't seen TLC's  Extreme Couponing, it's on again -  January 15th and 16th.