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- Will You Accept the #TargetChallenge?
by Lisa Thompson
Updated: Aug. 15, 2015
Originally Published: July 20, 2015
As a Gen-X working mother of two, I often find myself in situations that make me chuckle—especially when I think of those trendy, often ridiculous moments in American reality culture. So, I’m kicking off a new challenge that’s a bit more fitting for us moms navigating our busy lives. I call it the #TargetChallenge.
Let’s face it, like many mothers, I have a love affair with Target. And Target, well, it seems to adore shoppers like me who occasionally indulge a bit too much. I remember those lunch breaks spent wandering the aisles, filling my cart to the brim. Then, I signed up for a REDcard to “support my school.” Mistake. That decision led me to this moment.
Now, I’m taking charge and rediscovering the person I was before my frequent visits to Target became a routine. I hopped in my car, returns in hand, and prepared myself mentally for what felt like an uphill battle: making my returns and leaving without adding to my cart.
I steeled myself against the temptation to peek at the dollar section and avoided eyeing the jewelry department, where a charming red floral necklace had been calling my name for weeks. Thankfully, the home decor section remained at the far end of the store, away from my pillow-plumping hands.
Once I parked, I noted my spot with clarity—this would be a quick visit. I grabbed an empty cart, stood tall, took a deep breath, and entered Target with my bulging bag of returns:
- A puddle jumper my daughter never used over the weekend
- A mason jar bought on impulse that I still haven’t figured out a purpose for
- An American flag shirt my son opted not to wear for the Fourth
- A tank top that turned out to be too big—my hopes of it being a dress were dashed
- An Orla Kiely floral yoga bag purchased on a whim, despite my lack of yoga practice
- Two stunning floral Threshold throw pillows that I couldn’t sneak into the house without my husband noticing (I’m trying to conquer a throw pillow obsession)
As I stood in line, my thoughts wandered to the back of the store, recalling a cute floral lamp I had spotted the week before. I even noticed a chevron ottoman on the return counter that piqued my interest. But I reminded myself: Just look away, Lisa. Just look away.
Finally, it was my turn. The cashier began processing my returns, and I couldn’t help but ponder how much I had spent on such trivial items. The realization struck me hard. She commented on the adorableness of my pillows, and I felt a brief flash of insanity for returning them. Really, who returns something that cute? Apparently, I do, and I felt a strange sense of pride about it.
When she inquired if I’d seen the new Threshold lamps that had just arrived, I met her gaze and shook my head, though the urge to explore was strong. “Should I take a look?” I mused internally, but resisted.
Then came the tempting offer: a gift card instead of cash. Smooth move, Target. I declined, held my return receipt, and just like that, it was finished.
And guess what? Despite the aroma of Starbucks wafting nearby and the sight of new striped leather notebooks enticing me, I maneuvered my empty cart aside and exited the store feeling liberated.
I did a little mental jig—“No bags, no cart, no bags, no cart.” With my limbs free, I hurried back to my car, which I had no trouble finding just four minutes after I’d parked.
Outside, I spotted another mom struggling with her treasures—pillows and a whimsically designed Orla Kiely suitcase. Her kids were upset, and I felt her stress. We exchanged a brief look, and I offered her a reassuring smile. I had been in her shoes, and we don’t have to lead lives filled with clutter.
So, to all the moms out there, I challenge you to take on the #TargetChallenge. Snap a photo with your empty cart and your smiling face, and share it with the hashtag. I dare you to get in, get out, and reclaim your day. The choice is yours.
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Summary
In this light-hearted narrative, a Gen-X working mom embarks on the #TargetChallenge, aiming to reclaim her time and independence by making returns without succumbing to shopping temptations. Through her journey, she shares relatable experiences that resonate with fellow moms, encouraging them to join in the challenge.