Have you ever been impulsive? The emotions surge and we make a snap decision. Sometimes it works out but most times… not so much. This post was inspired by our lovely holiday Bowflex tree and the lessons I reflected on while decorating it.
Now, as much as I appreciate the beauty of our Bowflex tree, I understand that there’s something (maybe a few things) desperately wrong with this picture.
Lesson #1: Try Before You Buy (especially big ticket items)
We’ve had our Bowflex machine for over 2 years now and it’s been used about a dozen times between myself and my hubby.
1st issue: Lack of space. (Hence, a Bowflex tree and not a Christmas tree). This machine is much larger than it looked on The Shopping Channel.
2nd issue: Does not suit our taste or needs. I tried. I really did. I watched the DVD that came with it. I installed and used it’s progress tracking software. Even had a routine but none of it stuck.
Now, the hot Bowflex granny says it worked for her so it may also for you (that’s what I was hoping when we ordered it). But if our Bowflex taught us just one lesson, it’s to make sure your purchase suits you before investing a chunk of money into it.
By the way, what DID work for me was old-fashioned, accessible (and highly economical) floor work and easy-to-store free weights!
Lesson #2: Beware of Unbelievable Deals
The Home Shopping Network is notorious for it’s remarkable deals. Our Bowflex came with loads of extras, including believable and inspiring testimonials and sharp-talking sales reps.
What really cinched the deal for us was the promise of weight-loss and fit, healthy bodies. The advertising tickled our emotions and desires. We thought that if it worked for these people, it would work for us.
Besides, if we were investing this much money into equipment, surely it would motivate us towards a healthy routine! (We didn’t know at the time that change comes from within, not in `things’ outside ourselves.)
Lesson #3: Respect the Energy of Money
The energy of money is like the energy of food. For health, we want the most nutritious calories because it’s the empty (and less satisfying) calories that adds to our weight and drains us of long-lasting energy.
The same holds true for money. When we exchange our hard-earned money for something we truly value and appreciate, we respect ourselves and the energy of money. When we do this, we invite more quality and money into our lives.
In this case, exercise equipment has fulfilled it’s purpose and added real benefit to our lives when we use it on a regular basis to gain muscle and health. Not as an $1,100 pseudo-Christmas tree.
Moral of the Story
While it’s always recommended to make the most out of every situation (see photo), it’s in our best interest to perform due diligence before purchasing and avoid emotion-based impulses so that we use our resources wisely and consciously.
Have you ever used an impulse buy for something it wasn’t meant to be used for just to appease your guilt for being impulsive? I’d really like to hear your stories so our Bowflex tree doesn’t seem so lame!
By the way, if you’re in the Toronto area and you think a Bowflex machine will suit you, contact me (stephanie [at] livelighter [dot] ca) and we’ll talk shop.