Is Your Shopping Out Of Control?
Is Your Shopping Out Of Control?
Are you one of the 10 million Americans who may be compulsive shoppers?
Studies show that people can get addicted and get the same rush from shopping as from gambling.
This is not surprising, as finding a bargain, owning something new and acquiring beautiful things can make you feel very good, even on a high. It is this feeling that people crave. To keep getting this same feeling/high, compulsive shoppers will often keep buying the same item, looking for the same bargain and keep buying even if they can’t afford it. Ironically when they have racked up a huge bill and the credit card statements come in, to feel better they rush out and spend some more, exacerbating the problem. To make matters worse shopaholics will often loose all interest in the purchased item as soon as it’s in their possession, shoving it in the wardrobe or hiding it from their partner. If this sounds anything like you read on, hopefully these tips will make you think about what you are doing, however if you think you have a problem you need to seek professional help before it gets out of control.
Tip1:
Take 5 minutes before paying for your selected item. Even walk away from the item or the shop. Go and have a coffee to think about the purchase. If after 5 minutes you still want it, get it. However this time will allow you to ask a few questions: Do I really need this? Can I wait for this purchase? How will I pay for it? Where will I put it or use it?
You will be surprised how often this time will allow you to stop, collect yourself and put the item back.
Tip 2:
Keep a log of your purchases. Write down how much it was, when you bought it, why you went shopping and how it made you feel. If you notice a pattern such as shopping after you had a fight with you friend or partner, had a bad day at work or even after the bills have come in, you might have a problem. If shopping is your solution to feeling bad, down, sad or depressed you need to seek counselling to help you break this habit. Shopping should not be used as an escape form everyday stresses and will only give you a very temporary relief.
Tip 3:
Look for other ways to relieve your tension, other than shopping. There are many healthier and cheaper ways to cheer yourself up! Look for a hobby, give yourself a DIY manicure/pedicure/facial mask. Take a relaxing bubble bath, take the dog for a walk, go for a run with a friend, visit an old person, run errands for family members. Generally take yourself out of the situation that is compelling you to shop and I personally find that if you focus on other people you forget your own troubles.
Tip 4:
When you go to the shops, leave your credit cards at home and only pay with cash. Once the cash is gone, you can’t buy anything else. Simple!
Find other ways to treat yourself. If jewellery is your weakness, start making it yourself. If you always buy clothing, take some sewing classes and make something for yourself or get a few fashion magazine to look through instead of buying the items. Or organise a swap party with your friends and get a whole wardrobe-full of new clothes without spending a cent.
Tip 5:
Only shop with a responsible friend. A wise friend that will help you to monitor/curb your purchases is a god-sent! When you have to explain the reasons behind making a purchase, it suddenly looses it’s lustre and you soon realise you don’t really want or need the item.
Tip 6:
When purchasing for others, set a firm budget. Take that amount of cash and don’t spend a cent more. Think about what that person needs not what appeals to you. If you keep them at the forefront you will be less likely to make an extravagant purchase based on a whim.
Tip 7:
Stay away from the shops. If you know that is your weakness, stay away from it. If you are an alcoholic, you don’t seek out people who get drunk, so likewise avoid the temptation. You will find that you have adequate amount of whatever it is you normally shop for to keep you going for quite some time.
When my husband and I both lost our jobs at the same time(we worked for the same company) we had no choice but to stop shopping altogether. For food we lasted over a month, getting more and more creative as we got down to the last bits and pieces in the pantry but it was amazing what we could do with what we already had at home.
For clothing we lasted over a year as money was very scarce as we started up our new business and couldn’t afford luxuries. Most clothing will last for several seasons and with creative mixing, matching and accessorising you can always look well kept and stylish.
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