Big purchases feel exciting in the moment, but excitement fades a whole lot faster than bills do.
Pepaw has given this advice to every child, grandchild, and neighbor who ever asked how to avoid wasting money: “Before you buy something big, sleep on it, sugar.” Pepaw’s simple rule isn’t about being cheap—it’s about giving your brain time to catch up with your feelings so you make decisions you won’t regret.
The 24-Hour Rule That Saves You From Impulse Buying
Pepaw believes that nearly every big purchase looks different the next day. Waiting 24 hours lets emotions settle so you can think clearly. That shiny new appliance, big-screen TV, or fancy tech gadget won’t feel quite as urgent in the morning. If you still want it after a night’s rest, and it still fits your budget, then it might be worth considering.
More often than not, the desire fades, and so does the false pressure to “buy while it’s on sale.” Pepaw knows retailers count on impulse decisions. The moment you pause, you’re back in control.
“Wanting something isn’t the same as needing it,” he says. “Sleeping on it shows you which is which.”
Explore Pepaw’s Checklist for Comparing Online Deals Like a Pro to verify prices before buying.
Ask Pepaw’s Three Questions Before Spending Big
When you wait overnight, Pepaw wants you to run the purchase through three simple questions. First: Do I truly need this, or is it just something I want? Wants aren’t wrong, but they need to fit the budget. Second: Can I comfortably afford it right now? If the answer involves credit cards or crossed fingers, Pepaw says slow down.
Finally: Is this the best price I can get? Sleeping on it gives you time to compare prices, check reviews, and see if there’s a cheaper model or an upcoming sale. Most big purchases have better prices at different times of the year, and Pepaw knows patience usually puts money back in your pocket.
These questions keep your brain from getting swept up in the excitement.
To research big-ticket tech purchases, read Pepaw’s Buying Guide for Budget-Friendly Laptops & Tablets.
Why Emotional Spending Leads to Regret
Pepaw has seen it happen plenty: folks buy something big because they’re bored, stressed, or trying to cheer themselves up. But emotional purchases rarely solve emotional problems and often create new ones when the bill comes due.
Sleeping on it gives your emotions a chance to reset. It keeps you from impulse buying a $1,200 refrigerator because the old one “looks a little scratched,” or upgrading a perfectly fine phone because a commercial made it seem outdated. Time creates clarity, and clarity saves money.
Pepaw says, “You can’t spend your way out of feelings. But you can feel your way into smarter spending.”
Check out Pepaw’s Honest Guide to Buying Appliances Without Getting Fleeced for real-world examples.
How Waiting Helps You Find Better Deals and Better Options
When you don’t rush, you suddenly have time to do real research. Pepaw loves digging up price comparisons, reading customer reviews, and checking deal calendars to see if a price drop is coming soon. Many appliances, mattresses, electronics, and tools have predictable sales seasons. Waiting even a week can save you hundreds.
You may also discover that a simpler model does exactly what you need for far less money. Pepaw’s not impressed with bells and whistles; he’s impressed with durability and value.
Giving yourself time turns you from a rushed shopper into a smart one.
