Ever had someone show up at your door trying to sell you something you weren’t even considering? That’s exactly what happened to one of our clients recently. She was enjoying a quiet afternoon when a salesperson knocked, offering a home security system.

She hadn’t planned on installing an alarm system, but the pitch was convincing. The pressure was on to make a decision right then and there. Recognizing that, she did something smart—she told the salesperson she needed to consult her financial advisor before making a commitment. The response? A snarky, “Oh, do you let them make all your decisions?”

That reaction speaks volumes about high-pressure sales tactics. If someone doesn’t want you to take time to think, that’s a red flag.

Key Takeaways:

• High-pressure sales rely on quick decisions. The longer you think about a purchase, the less likely you are to buy—so salespeople push for on-the-spot commitments.
• Use a financial advisor as a buffer. Saying, “I need to check with my financial advisor,” gives you space to step back and evaluate if a purchase truly makes sense.
• Your spending should align with your values. Every purchase should meet two key criteria:
  1. Is it in your budget?
  2. Is it something you truly value?

If yes to both → Go for it.

If no to either → Probably best to pass.

Think Before You Spend

When faced with a big financial decision—especially under pressure—give yourself permission to slow down. If a purchase aligns with your budget and your values, great. If not, there’s no harm in walking away.

And if you ever need a reason to hit pause? Blame us. Tell them you need to check with your advisor—we’re happy to play the bad guy.

Got a financial question or need a second opinion? Reach out anytime.