If you are one of the many employees that have been asked to work remotely in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a good chance that you and the internet will form an unbreakable bond over the coming weeks. You may find yourself indulging in one too many online shopping sprees, but the good news is we have a few tips and tricks to avoid the common pitfalls of the e-Commerce world.

Come with a purpose

Online shopping has a lot of benefits, especially now when social distancing is crucial. However, flying blind can lead to a hefty shopping cart. Before you let your wants bury your needs, make a list of your necessities and keep your wandering to a minimum. You will thank yourself in the long run.

Give yourself 24 hours before checking out

Once that shopping cart is full, take a step back from the screen and give yourself a 24-hour reflection period. Impulse buys can get the best of us. This time allows your impulse or need for instant gratification to subside, and you can review your items before completing your order. With each item, ask yourself an important question: Is this a necessity? If you find yourself feeling any hesitation, it is safe to say it is a want rather than a need.

Have an alternative activity

The internet is an easy way to pass the time and break up the monotony of your day, but there are alternative ways to fill that spare time. Exercise, reading, baking, journaling – the list goes on. If you still have the desire to spend some money, enjoy a classic game of monopoly where you can spend limitlessly without putting a dent in your actual wallet.

Set a limit on browsing time

The internet offers multitudinous way to procrastinate on your to-do list. Rather than giving yourself the ability to turn to the world wide web at any given point, set specific timeframes for personal internet use. Consider practicing time blocking to provide structure to your day and prioritize those tasks that can easily be bumped to the back of the line when your urge to search the web for cyber deals starts to take over.

Unsubscribe from emailing lists

Notifications are always asking for your attention. They are an easy distraction; who wouldn’t want to know that their favorite store is having a storewide sale with 50 percent off all items? Say no to the temptation by silencing your notifications from online retailers. This also adds a level of excitement when you do visit your most-liked online store and see the pleasant surprise of 50 percent off the entire store.

By making use of these tips, you will be able to keep your relationship with the internet in check while, most importantly, keeping your personal budget and financial goals insight.