Vices are not limited to gambling and drinking. The least spoken about but common to most of us is the addiction to shopping. It can be item specific, for example needing a new pair of shoes or a watch for your next event. Or “need it” shopping for anything and everything from sales to high priced items. Do you find yourself constantly needing to go shopping when you are depressed, bored, or sad?
The impulse is uncontrollable; you get this adrenaline rush that takes over you. It is like someone else has taken over your body. Nothing or no one can stop you from picking up that must-have item. You can’t think straight. What do you do? Buy a pair of shoes for yourself when you are supposed to be saving up. Max out your credit card or even borrow money to buy it. The happiness and joy of having that new item slowly fades away in days, a new necessity comes into mind, off to the mall you go.
When we are in an emotional state of mind, irrational decisions are made. You tend to spend more on things that truthfully are not needed, which we often make ourselves into believing we do. Instead of dealing with the real issue at hand, possibly a break up, boredom, or loneliness, we cope with impulsive behavior, needing instant gratification.
Whatever the case is don’t let this go on, you can take control. All it takes is will power, self control and friends by your side. Set up a plan, make a list and have a budget for your next shopping trip. Ask your friends for support and have them remind you what your purpose at the store is. In extreme cases, leave your credit cards at home and take only the cash you plan on spending.
Remember, we all don’t have Kim Kardashian money, so those pair of fabulous shoes could waitâ¦
—— By: Karina Martinez
Do you find yourself constantly checking online and in-store deals? Is your wardrobe full of clothes that you have never worn before? If so, you may be addicted to shopping. Shopping addiction is a real condition which can cause serious financial, emotional and relationship troubles if left untreated. This article will explore what it means to be addicted to shopping, the signs and symptoms associated with this disorder, as well as tips on how to overcome it.
Have you ever experienced feelings such as guilt or shame after a shopping spree? Do you get an adrenaline rush when browsing through stores or websites for items that you don’t need? These are just some of the psychological effects of compulsive buying. Compulsive shoppers often buy things impulsively without considering the consequences first – leading them into debt and causing severe stress within their family relationships.
Compulsive shopping is not something to take lightly; left unaddressed, it can become very damaging both financially and emotionally. Fortunately, there are ways to address addictive behaviors around spending money; from therapy sessions with mental health professionals to joining support groups specifically tailored for people struggling with compulsive buying behavior. Keep reading this article for more information about the signs and symptoms of shopping addiction, as well as tips on how to break free from destructive spending habits.
What Is Shopping Addiction?
Shopping addiction is a type of impulse control disorder. It involves compulsive buying behaviors that are driven by an irresistible desire to acquire more and more material possessions. While shopping can be enjoyable and therapeutic for some people, those with shopping addiction have difficulty controlling their urge to purchase items they don’t need or cannot afford.
Signs of a shopping addiction include feeling anxious or guilty when shopping, being preoccupied with thoughts about shopping and going on frequent spending sprees. People who suffer from this condition often feel out of control when it comes to their spending habits and may experience financial strain as a result of excessive purchases. They may also develop negative feelings such as shame and regret after making the purchase.
These issues can lead to serious consequences, including broken relationships due to money problems, debt accumulation, loss of employment opportunities, and other related difficulties. With the right help, however, individuals with a shopping addiction can learn better ways to cope with their urges while avoiding these adverse outcomes.
Strategies For Overcoming Shopping Addiction
The good news is that there are effective strategies for overcoming shopping addiction. While it can be difficult to break the cycle of compulsive buying, with commitment and dedication individuals can learn how to better manage their urges. Here are some practical tips on how to do this:
First, it’s important to understand when you feel the urge to shop and why. By taking time to reflect on your triggers, such as stress or boredom, you can begin to identify patterns in your behavior and develop alternative coping skills. For example, if you often find yourself mindlessly browsing online stores during stressful moments at work, try taking a walk outside instead.
Second, create an action plan for when those urges strike. Make a list of activities that can distract you from shopping or help calm your nerves such as reading a book, going for a run, or doing yoga. Having these things readily available will give you something else to focus on rather than heading straight into a store or online store checkout page.
Lastly, set clear boundaries around your spending habits by creating budgets and tracking expenses closely. If needed, take measures like removing access to credit cards from websites and establishing limits on what kind of purchases are acceptable within certain amounts of money. This way you’ll have more control over impulse buys and be able to keep track of where your money goes each month.
Conclusion
The topic of shopping addiction is a difficult one. It’s important to remember that you can overcome it if you work hard and make the necessary changes in your life.
First, recognize when you’re feeling tempted to buy something impulsively or compulsively. Once you understand what triggers these urges, you can be better prepared to manage them. Developing healthy spending habits such as tracking purchases, setting limits on how much money you spend, and creating a budget are all great strategies for overcoming this addiction.
Finally, find support from friends and family who will help keep you accountable and motivated. Having someone with whom to share your struggles and successes makes it easier to stay on track. Shopping addiction doesn’t have to control your life; there are resources available so don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed. With some mindful effort and determination, anyone can take back control of their finances and live a happier more balanced lifestyle free from compulsive spending behaviors.
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