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Grocery shopping in general is not my favorite thing to do. So having some sort of plan of attack so that I hopefully avoid impulse purchases is a plus in my book. I want to get in and get done as quickly as possible. Sadly, this isn't always the case for me.

Sometimes I overspend because I have a cranky child on my hands. Other times I put something in the basket that wasn't what I actually needed. That's when I come home and swear under my breath. Or I forget that needed ingredient for dinner all together. Again, some more cursing takes place. So in order to avoid these common mishaps I make a list. I cannot go without my list.

1. Get Organized: First I start out with my meal plan of the week. I list the days and pick about 4 meals for the week. With the amount of eating out this seems to be our magical number so as not to waste precious food. This number could be different for everyone, but for me this works. I only want to go grocery shopping once a week, usually on Monday. After I have the meals planned I proceed to make a list of all the items I need for those meals. I also leave room at the bottom of the list for cleaning supplies and personal care items. I feel that it's a waste of gas to drive to other stores for things they carry at the grocery store. So I get everything I can while we are already there shopping.

2. Be Consistent: I always go to the same store and follow the same direction. So I map out the store in my mind and write the list in that order. I hate to go back down the wrong aisles or have to back track for items I missed. But sometimes this still happens. I bring my child snacks and always hit up the bakery for a cookie if he's been a good shopper. With an organized list you can whip in and out of the grocery store in record time. Believe me, that extra time is well worth it. We lead such busy lives today that we need those precious minutes for other things. Also, sticking to your list and eating before you go will help you to avoid the many impulse buys. Whenever I'm hungry I throw in extra items, usually junk food, that I just don't need. I need that extra money in my pocket book instead.

3. Seek Professional Help: If you need a categorized cheat sheet they sell those at any grocery store or target. All the items are written and you check them off. I prefer my handwriting on a small sheet of paper. Either way will get the job done. A few tips to the store using this method and you will be a grocery shopping pro.

Learn more about this author, Amber Lee Martin.
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