What do you do when you LOVE buying things you don’t need and just can’t stop walking into stores?! Here’s what!

1. Understand your addiction.

First of all, shopaholism is linked to emotions and not intelligence. Second, you need to know exactly what triggers you to spend money. Keep a diary (are you going to buy a new one JUST for this?) and record exactly when, why and where you spent your money. Write about how you felt before you walked in through the doors or logged onto Amazon.

2. Discover why.

Shopaholics do it for all kinds of reasons; to get over anxiety, divert attention from personal problems, to overcome insecurity, due to lack of healthy social relations, etc. You need to find out what’s missing in your life and try to fix that instead!

3. Count your blessings.

If you’re spending too much – and often irrationally – then think about all the people who can’t even afford a meal a day. Think about all the things you need that you already have. Our wants will never decrease; we just need to know which wants are worth it!

4. Get help.

Now, I’m not saying you should go see a shrink. A lot of shopaholics sign up for counselling sessions that only make them feel worse about themselves. Confide in someone you love and trust. Share your problem with a member of your family or your best friend.

5. Carry limited cash.

Leave the card at home and carry a limited amount of money whenever you go out. You should have enough cash for a minor emergency, and that’s it!

6. Avoid the danger zones.

Avoid shopping malls entirely. If you absolutely NEED to buy something, then do it with someone who’ll stop you at the right time.

7. Involve yourself.

Think about what you’re doing with your life. Is spending money and browsing online stores the best you can do?

8. Find healthy alternatives.

Whenever you feel like shopping do some yoga instead or go for a walk.

9. Be honest and open.

If you think you’re the only one facing this problem, then you’re absolutely wrong. Start a support group because every city should have one. Talk about shopaholism, provide support to those who are also struggling and work together to raise awareness.

10. Be more charitable.

Being charitable does not have to involve money. Take up a volunteering position or start an initiative on your own!

The key is to understand the problem and yourself. Don’t be afraid to speak up because you’re not alone!