Here are just a few random things that help me when I remember them. Sometimes I repeat them to myself. :)
1. There are LOTS of deals out there, you can't get them all.
2. You will probably find another good deal on something even if you missed a really good price.
3. It's okay to pay full price once in a while. ( I hate this one, but I have to remind myself)
4. It never hurts to buy a LOT of something you will use at a good price. Don't be embarrassed, even if it's toilet paper or sanitary napkins.
5. It never hurts to return an item if you found out it wasn't the deal you were hoping for.
6. Keep your receipts for awhile. Sometimes You will find a coupon just AFTER you bought something, then you can go back and do a "post coupon." Show them your receipt and they will trade your coupon for cash.
7. You will make mistakes at first. If you can fix them (by returning or post couponing), do, but if not, chalk it up to a learning experience and think of all the money you will save in the future by avoiding that mistake. :)
8. Profile, profile, profile!!! Choose your cashier WISELY!! Always go for male if you can find one! They are so much more easy going and rarely have a chip on their shoulder. If no men, the younger the better. Learn which cashiers to avoid. Sour expressions are a dead giveaway. I like to shop when stores are busier so I have more options to choose from. Slow times usually mean less wait, but you may get stuck with a coupon hater. and there is nothing worse for your self esteem than a hater.
9. Don't be ashamed to ask friends and relatives for their coupons! Some of them may just be throwing them in the TRASH!! Once they see how much you are saving, they will be glad they saved them for you.
10. Know your stores coupon policies. I will post them in the next step. It is SO frustrating when a checker starts making up the rules as they go along (and they will, especially at the Vons on MHS Road). But if you know your policy or better yet, have a copy in your box, it gives you a leg to stand on. But I will be honest with you, policy or not, some people are stubborn and you won't argue them into giving you anything, so instead, be sweet and let it go for the sake of being a light to that person and next time, pick a different checker.
