BEAKING THE NORM
How does someone even get to the point of having a shopping addiction? Is there such a thing as that? Why do I need to curb that? I only live once so I might as well buy all the things I want! …these and many more questions you may ask or even make similar statements until you are hit with a personal financial crisis. Shopping, for some people is a form of therapy and it is innocuous until things go south. One of the main reasons why people go bankrupt is not because they do not have funds but because they purchase things that they cannot afford. No matter how wealthy one may appear to be, there is something that they cannot afford. Let's break it down, shall we? It only means that they may have enough wealth to purchase whatever it is they desire at the moment but are likely to go broke because of the aftershock that comes with maintenance or even basic needs. This however, isn't referring to occasional impulse buying but obsessive compulsive shopping. That is why this post is suggesting possible ways to deal with this joy-sucking, finance-devouring, **add your words** addiction.
1. Recognise your shopping addiction
Nobody knows you better than you know yourself, so you are the only one who can really tell whether or not you have any kind of addiction. So do yourself the biggest favour and sort that out. Be open and true to yourself. The benefits may not appear to be immediate but in the long run, you'll feel its worth. Acknowledge the addiction then go into action.
2. Set your priorities
It's okay to have an addiction but don't let that addiction immobilise you. The second step to getting rid of a shopping addiction is setting your priorities and having goals, in this case financial goals. I'm sure you have things you want to use money for. Set your priorities and let that be your money spending benchmark. It could be setting money aside for a holiday trip, a savings account or even for a gift for a loved one.
3. Avoid temptations
You know what gets your shopping blood pumping. For some, it's malls while for others it's online stores. Whichever one it is steer clear of them until you can comfortably visit them without having a financial meltdown. Identify your shopping triggers and avoid them at all costs. At first it may seem difficult but after a while it will easily become commonplace.
4. Be accountable
Always go shopping with cash instead of bank cards. That way you get to spend within the limits of your budget and track your spending. Keep your receipts until you are sure you do not want to return the items you purchased. Have a monthly wardrobe allowance so if there's a need to make any purchases, you go to your allowance, and if there isn't then it's carried over to the next month. If you must, go shopping with a friend so that you could always double-check pieces with them before paying.