6 Things a Compulsive Shopper Can Do To Curb the Urge to Splurge

As a compulsive shopper, my compulsive tendencies will forever be part of my personality. Thankfully, I have found ways to quiet those tendencies and make them my allies.

When it came to handing out compulsive tendencies, there’s no question I received more than the standard allotment. I can sit down fully intending to watch the evening news and end up owning a pasta machine.

I jump online just to look around and come out with three outfits I’ll never wear, a gift I’ll never give, and several things for the house. I can glance at a mail order catalog, and in the time it takes to pull up its website, Adirondack chairs and matching windsocks are winging their way to my front door.

Why? I see what I like, and WHAM! Something goes off in my head, insisting I need it right now. I’m entitled to it and pity the poor soul who tries to prevent me from having it.

As a compulsive shopper, my compulsive tendencies will forever be part of my personality. Thankfully, I have found ways to quiet those tendencies and make them my allies.

Self-Parenting

When tempted to give in to my impulsive desires, I ask if I’d accept this behavior from my children. Visualizing myself having a temper tantrum, kicking my feet face down in the aisle at Home Goods is a disgusting image that jerks me back to my good senses.

Slippery Places

Stores, shopping channels, slick, compelling advertisements, and mail-order catalogs are “slippery places” for me. Just going there sets me up to fall flat on my face. If I stay away, I avoid temptation. When I have a specific need, I plan my route through the store, make my purchase, and get out of there as quickly as possible. I’ve blocked certain websites on my devices. I make sure a trash can is close to the mailbox.

Make Spending Difficult

For me carrying a credit card or checkbook is just too convenient and potentially lethal. Instead, my modis operandi is to carry only enough cash to meet my anticipated needs for the day. This routine forces me to plan and helps to avoid compulsive purchases.

Talk to My Compulsive Shopper

When confronted with temptation, I talk to myself. “If this wasn’t on sale, would you still buy it?” (If the answer is no, and it usually is, I pass.) “Why don’t you just go home and think about it?” (I rarely return.) “Don’t you already have something that will do just as well?” (I usually do.) “You don’t have to buy this just to prove you can; no one cares.” (Reality check.)

The Saving Antidote

I’ve found that saving money is the best antidote for overspending. For me saving money produces a similar euphoria brought on by spending. The difference is that saving never leaves feelings of remorse and guilt the way overspending does.

The Root Cause

The unrelenting desire to acquire things is often a mask disguising the real issues. Discovering that my compulsive tendencies are rooted in my need for approval allows me to deal with that issue effectively.

By reading good self-help books on compulsive behavior, talking about the subject, and seeking help from wise counselors, I’ve discovered why I do the things I do. That has allowed me to take the steps necessary to change.

If you suspect you have a problem with compulsive shopping, go to www.debtorsanonymous.org and take the self-test. This site will help you find the kind of help you need to get a grip on your compulsive behaviors and free you to make some necessary changes.

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