Cutting through the mire of offers, once-in-a-lifetime discounts and adverts is the trick to winning the day on Black Friday.
Isn’t Black Friday a guaranteed win?
Although it can seem like a consumer’s dream, going in with a plan and making some reckless decisions can quickly turn Black Friday into a nightmare. The sheer buzz of marketing and promotions makes it easy to be sucked in to thinking you are getting the bargain of a lifetime.
But the reality is that unnecessary or borderline purchases can quickly cause a lot of financial stress.
Going in with some composure and a sound plan can really help you win on Black Friday.
Where to start
Sounds easy, but how do you really turn the tables on multi-billion-dollar retailers on Black Friday?
First, don’t forget that retailers have the advantage of professional merchandisers and advertisers to pull you in. They also have sophisticated algorithms and data telling them what you buy, how you buy and when you buy. It’s David versus Goliath!
But when you apply some simple tactics, you can take control. However powerful a firm’s advertising may be, you hold the purse strings until you hit the dreaded “confirm purchase button”, so use this advantage in your favor!
Calm not crazy
Retailers thrive on whipping consumers into a spending frenzy on Black Friday.
To combat this, whether you are shopping instore or online, make a good old-fashioned list! This is the most simple but effective way of avoiding rash decisions that can lead to untold stress and anxiety later in the month when you see the full extent of the damage. In short, stay calm and don’t let the retailers win.
If possible, formulate your plan over a period of 6-9 months before Black Friday. Jot down any new products you find yourself wishing you had on a regular basis. Also, write down any products that are beginning to show their age and causing you the hassle. This way you won’t be scrambling to remember everything when November rolls around.
Shop around
Another feature of Black Friday is that retailers really want to avoid you shopping around. Websites are designed to be as sticky and enticing as possible. Tricks such as time-limited offers or low stock alerts are all designed to create urgency and impulse.
Put simply, ignore this. Shop around and see if the so-called unmissable price really is unmissable, or if it would be better to be missed.
Another key thing to remember on Black Friday 2021 is to not cut corners on the normal research you would do. Especially for larger purchases of a few hundred dollars or more, make sure you check out some independent user reviews or Trustpilot ratings.
Sometimes the best purchases are the ones you don’t make
If you are not sure about a product or how good the price is, walk away. It may feel disappointing at the time, but you will feel a lot better about it in the long run. There are always other sales – so keep your nerve!
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I recently saw this book and knew right away that I had to share it with you. The book highlights a selection of some of the loveliest restaurants around the globe, each with a unique story to tell. It also makes a great gift for the holidays.
“Reflecting the international food scene, this book presents a bucket list showing today’s most inspiring gourmet experiences.”
– Amélie Vincent – The Foodalist
Chefs, gastronomy, and lifestyle are hot topics. However, finding the ultimate dining experience around the world might be challenging and can be disappointing.
From Paris (Plaza Athénée, Septime) and Mexico City (Quintonil, Lorea) to Tokyo (Den, Florilège, Sushi Saito), Amélie Vincent, also known as The Foodalist, selects 150 must-visit restaurants around the world in her latest book 150 Restaurants You Need to Visit before You Die. These culinary hotspots promise a unique experience to the diners, through exquisite menus, original designs and creative chefs.
Founder of The Foodalist Communication Agency (www.thefoodalist.com), Amélie Vincent, is an expert in revealing culinary trends worldwide. She has the world’s best chefs in her network and works with the most influential media around the world.
Thanks to her photographer eye and her experience as a culinary journalist, 150 Restaurants You Need to Visit before You Die is the ultimate bucket list for every single foodie and gourmet traveler and the sequel to the equally standout book 150 Bars You Need to Visit Before You Die.
For more information or to purchase this book, click HERE.
| For the second year in a row, American Christmas is holding its INCREDIBLE Warehouse SALE EVENT! They are unveiling an incredible selection of Trees, Wreaths, Garland, Collectible Ornaments, Nutcrackers, Lit Motifs, and resin Christmas-themed props big and small. You never know what you will find inside the Warehouse and all priced 80% off retail. You will also get the first opportunity to shop the new Christmas In America Retail Store before it officially opens on Monday, October 18th. This is a 1 Day Only Sale! SUNDAY, 10/17 – Doors Open 9 AM – 4 PM Stop by to take a look at the new additions. Everything is limited, and I know they’ll disappear fast! On-Street Parking is available. And, Face Masks are required to enter the sale event. Hope to see everyone there! American Christmas 30 Warren Place Mount Vernon, NY 10550 |
My family loves chili. I have made so many variations of Turkey Chili over the years and then this recipe came across my inbox. I was really impressed and like that it is a healthy alternative to some of the other recipes that I have tried. It is really easy and cooks so quickly. I love a great meal that you can make under an hour. I make it early in the week and we eat lefts overs every day until it’s gone..IT’S THAT GOOD!!!!
Adapted from Ambitious Kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound extra lean ground turkey or chicken (99%)
- 4 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15 oz) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, rinsed and drained
- For topping: cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, cilantro, sour cream
- Place oil in a large pot and place over medium high heat. Add in onion, garlic and red pepper and saute for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add in ground turkey and break up the meat; cooking until no longer pink. Next add in chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper and salt; stir for about 20 seconds.
- Next add in tomatoes, chicken broth, kidney beans and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes or until chili thickens and flavors come together. Taste and adjust seasonings and salt as necessary.
- Garnish with anything you’d like. Makes 6 servings, about 1 1/2 cups each.
Creating a home base while serving in the military can be a great way to give your family stability and have a welcoming place to return from deployment. Whether you have a young family or are single, investing in your own property can be an ideal way to prepare for the future.
It is often best to buy a property near your base or where you have friends and family. This can ensure that you won’t be without a support system if and when you need it.
Utilize Virtual Viewings
If looking for a home while deployed, using virtual viewings can be invaluable. Some realtors offer 360 walkthrough tours as standard. Ask your realtor for a video walkthrough if this is not readily available.
Get A Survey
Have a property surveyed by professionals before putting in an offer. Choose surveyors with extensive experience and multiple good reviews. Find local surveyors who know the issues to look out for in the area.
Have Trusted Loved Ones View In-Person
Ask someone you trust to view the properties in person. Request that they take as many pictures and videos as possible. Choose someone with a knowledge of good quality housing. Get their honest opinions about the property.
Choose An Experienced Realtor
Use a realtor with experience finding properties for military personnel. Let them know your requirements and be firm in your expectations. Ensure they know what to look for if you hope to buy with a VA loan. Ask military friends for recommendations.
Find Out About VA Loans
Consider applying for a VA loan, which allows veterans and active service personnel to buy a home without a down payment. Ensure you qualify for the scheme and understand the requirements. Talk to Hero Loan to learn how to apply for a VA home loan today.
Assess Your Financial Situation
Ensure you have the financial stability to buy a property. Avoid taking out more mortgage than you can afford. Pay down your debts and keep your credit utilization below 30%. Ask for help from a financial advisor to work out how much you could afford to borrow.
Prepare For The Commitment
Understand the commitment of homeownership. Have an emergency fund of at least six months’ income. Invest in home security if the property will be empty for long periods. Learn to do basic fixes around the property. Research local tradespeople for work you are unqualified to do.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush into a house purchase; if you are unsure, delay buying. View a property in person where possible. Don’t compromise on your essential requirements for a home.
Be Wary Of Scams
Some scammers target service members who are looking for properties. Take steps to protect against scams. Ensure you choose a verifiable provider for housing and loans.
Rent In The Area First
Rent in an area before buying to ensure it is the right fit. Spend six months to a year in the area and ensure it has all the amenities you need.