🛒 Shopping List vs. Wish List: How I Decide
The simple mindset shift that saves me money and regret.
Before I click “add to cart,” I ask myself one thing:
Is this a shopping list need or a wish list want?
This one question has helped me pause, spend more intentionally, and stay aligned with what actually matters — without feeling restricted.
At The Everyday Edit, I’ve created a soft, flexible system for how I shop — one that supports my goals and my joy. Here’s how I separate what I buy now from what I save for later — and why it works so well.
✍️ What’s a Shopping List?
My shopping list is for:
Essentials and basics
Household restocks
Seasonal swaps I planned for
Replacements (not duplicates)
Budget-approved purchases
Examples: toothpaste, a planner refill, or a plain white tee to replace a worn-out one.
💡 Tip: I keep this in my Notes app and check it weekly before errands or online shopping.
🌸 What’s a Wish List?
My wish list is for:
Non-urgent wants
Trendy items I’m unsure about
“Nice to have” purchases
Things I’m emotionally drawn to (but don’t really need)
Anything over my spontaneous spending limit
Examples: a new candle scent, a pair of boots I saw on Instagram, a weekend bag I don’t really need.
💡 Tip: I keep my wish list in Notion, sorted by category (home, fashion, books, etc.). I revisit it monthly — and most things never make it to checkout (and I don’t miss them).
🧠 How I Decide: My 5-Second Gut Check
Is it replacing something I already use or love?
Will I still want it in a week?
Did I budget for this — or is it emotional?
Can I borrow, wait, or thrift it instead?
Does this bring joy and value?
If it passes 3 out of 5, it goes in the cart. If not, it goes on the wish list.
🛍 The Benefits of This System
I impulse-buy way less
I still get to dream, pin, and plan — without guilt
I make more thoughtful purchases (and regret less)
My finances feel calmer and more aligned with my values
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to stop wanting beautiful things — you just need a system to honor both your budget and your desires.
Separating your shopping list from your wish list makes space for both practicality and play — and helps you buy with more joy, less stress.
Do you use a wish list system? Share your approach in the comments — let’s shop with clarity (and intention) together 🛍💛
