So, today I am recognizing my propensity towards addiction in all flavors. I walk away from one, only to pick up another. I need some accountability so decided to put it in writing. My family knows about it, but I'm not entirely sure they realize how bad it is. I think I need to turn my finances over to someone..... An expert. My husband is almost as bad as I am and he's not good with paying bills. Has anyone here overcome this.... Has anyone here seen a financial planner or turned finances over to a professional. I'm in the US. I'm shaking as a I write this and not sure I will even post. People have worse problem and this is definately a 1st world problem. I'm not sure what to do. Any help/advise will be appreciated. Not ready for bankruptcy and hoping to avoid it. Thanks.

[splitimage]

Spending addiction is a very real and serious problem, that can really mess you up if you don't get a handle on it. I shopped my way into serious debt in my 20's, my 30's, and my 40's. In my 20's and 30's, I was able to get it under control, and use savings to pay off the debt. I couldn't in my 40's, and had to declare bankruptcy. But even having done that I still struggle with impulse shopping, and staying within my budget.

One thing I would suggest is to look for a not-for-profit credit counselling service. They can help you set up a budget and give you tips for staying within it, as well as advice for paying down debt.

Once you actually face up to the problem, and start dealing with it, it's really hard, but it's a relief.

splitimage

[TishaBuv]

I like to spend time on here Instead of spending money. You'd be surprised how little stuff you need, and how you can simplify your life.

I suggest you sit down and put all the bills in front of you, first. What do you absolutely need to spend? The rest stops.

Can you return some things that you bought?

Then, some people stop carrying credit cards and only pay with cash. This helps them spend less.

Do you have the discipline to fix this?

TishaBuv, right now I feel I have the strength to fight this and win. I've overcome so much. I think I need to replace the habit with something else. Something healthy.

Split imagine, thank you for suggesting the free credi counseling service. That is exactly what I need! Now I need to make lists of wants vs needs and realize isolate what my family requires vs desires.

Thanks to both of you.

[Pixies]

I can totally relate! I am definitely an impulsive shopper. When I am having a manic episode, boy do I just spend like there is no tomorrow. Have been doing this for many years and just today did it, because I found a bargain and just couldn't walk away, I TRY to control these situations, but I don't always succeed. For me personally, I noticed once I stopped doing a budget and writing all the bills down, it got worse. I would suggest getting a routine together, a budget book is a great start. Sit down and write it all down and come pay day, pay everything on that list, and whatever is left, just enjoy. That worked for me for a long time, I've fallen off the wagon, but getting back on track with finances is paramount, you'll feel better for it. I also give myself pep talks, like; Do I really NEED this. Is it really beneficial to my life and my family, is it a want or a need. I also do not use credit cards and like to pay cash or lay-by stuff, that keeps me more in line and helps me.

I also found taking up a hobby kept me busy. Reading, dancing, listening to music, gym, spending more time with my partner and furbabies, when I started to do more, I spend less. When my mind is idle and I am bored, that is when I spend the most $$ and get off track.

Truly hope you can fix the issue, good luck!