You’re tired. You’re scrolling. You’re not even sure what you’re looking for—but suddenly, there it is:
A discounted course.
A limited-time bundle.
A programme promising “increased productivity overnight” or “10 pounds down in 10 days.”
It sounds like it could fix everything.
You think: “Maybe this is the thing that’ll get me back on track…”
But here’s the thing:
Most of these offers—fitness challenges, productivity tools, business templates—still require you to do the work.
If you're already stretched for time or energy, signing up for something that adds pressure—even with the best intentions—can do more harm than good.
You’re not alone in feeling tempted.
We all get drawn in by clever marketing and quick-win promises.
The question is: will this offer support you—or simply sit on your to-do list?
Here are five gently reflective questions to help you decide—without guilt, FOMO, or pressure to act now.
1. What’s the change I actually want to make right now?
You might feel low on energy or vaguely behind—but what exactly are you hoping this offer will fix?
Sometimes we buy support before we’ve named the real problem. And that can lead to guilt, refund requests, or another half-used login you don’t remember creating.
Start here: what’s actually out of sync right now—and is this the right thing for it?
2. Do I have the time, energy, and resources to see it through?
Even if the cost is low, every programme or product comes with a hidden cost: your attention.
- Will you genuinely have the capacity to use it well?
- Or are you secretly hoping it’ll do the heavy lifting for you?
Even the most exciting programme or tool won’t help if you’re already close to burnout.
And all those fitness and business offers promising huge results in short timeframes?
They rarely account for your real life—and they never come with a guarantee that you’ll feel better in the long run.
3. Am I solving the real problem?
This one’s tricky—because shiny offers often look like they’ll solve everything.
But sometimes what you really need is:
- Support for your energy levels, not another productivity hack
- A better routine, not another diet plan
- Clarity on your systems and workflows, not another tool or app
If the offer doesn’t meet the root of the challenge—it may not be worth your precious resources.
4. Am I being nudged… or choosing?
Scarcity. Urgency. Countdown timers. Bonus overload.
These are proven behavioural nudges—and they’re often used ethically.
But they’re designed to short-circuit thoughtful decision-making.
And they can lead to “shiny object syndrome,” where we buy something to soothe discomfort rather than solve the right problem.
You deserve to make decisions that honour your time, values, and capacity—not just your inbox.
5. What would feel genuinely supportive right now?
This might be:
- A small, structured reset
- An accountability check-in
- A season of consolidating what you already know
- Or yes—a course, a programme, a tool, if the timing is right
Whatever you choose, make sure it serves you—not stresses you.
Before you click buy…
The right offer, at the right time, can genuinely help.
But sometimes the most supportive thing is stepping back, reflecting, and finding your best next step.
Whether you’re considering a big investment, a discounted bundle, or even a freebie—it’s OK to pause.
You don’t have to act fast to act well.
Not sure if that special offer is right for you?
Download the free Special Offer Decision Guide, a simple, printable version of the five questions in this post.
No email required.
Simply something to support you next time a tempting offer pops up.
Download the Special Offer Decision Guide (PDF)
And if you're circling an idea and want to talk it through, you're welcome to book a free 30-minute call.
You won’t get a pitch, simply space to figure out what kind of support actually fits for you right now.