"Spending Addict, Need Help"!!!

[Secret Stash]

I totally agree with the don't shop recreationally. I used to do that and I would always end up with something I didn't need. I also stopped going to the malls and different stores with my friends, I'm much less likely to buy something when I am alone.

[clubneary]

Originally Posted by maat55

One thing I like to do is, find two or three things you can take out of the cart at the checkout. Find everything you don't need and pull it. Reading finance books and not looking at want adds helps a lot.

That's an awesome idea! I am going to start doing that. Right before I get to check out I will look in my cart and get rid of the things I don't really need. I try not to shop with any member of my family but once in a while my 8 year old DD will come with me and "persuade" me to buy things that aren't on the list.

Do you take the stuff back or just give it to the cashier and tell her you don't want it?

[osadg]

My first roomate in college also had a real problem controlling her spending. She actually took all the cards out and switched to cash. She TRIED to avoid going shopping or meeting friends at the mall, but it just didn't happen so she started giving herself an allowance. She only took out an pre-determined sum of money at the start of each week, and she tossed the cards, and checks. At first it was still difficult for her, but after a few very broke weeks, she realized how fast the money really went, and sure enough she quit spending. When she was using her debit card (and credit cards) she didn't realized how much she would spend, when she had to count out the cash-she DID! With her new "spending" habits she was even able to pay her credit cards off in about a year and a half.
You can certainly stop spending-you just have to figure out what works for you!
Good Luck!!

[rob62521]

Many money advisors recommend paying in cash because then you see it actually leave your hands. I'm wondering if more people are going to pay cash after the incident with major retailers having credit card info stolen last week.