folks she called to buy things she didn’t need were her friends. Her home was crowded with unopened boxes of items. There was nowhere to have a meal, or sit down with a cup of coffee, or do any of the social things that friends do. The first step for her was recognizing and admitting that she had a problem. She needed professional help. Professional counselors and support groups can be very helpful for people with this spending personality. She also had to learn to avoid triggers such as late night TV, or computer shopping, or going to malls as a recreation. This behavior is a form of addiction and needs to be treated as such.
If you are a Hot Potato buyer, WAIT! Use time before you buy to educate yourself about the basics of decision making. Read books, ask experts. Don’t overlook small decisions over a small amount of money which may wear you down. Whatever you do, don’t just sit and worry. That is harmful to both you and your relationships. If
the indecision is accompanied by a major life trauma, like the death of a spouse or retirement, experts recommend waiting at least 6 months before making any major financial decisions. Use this time to educate yourself.
Overcoming and eliminating unhealthy spending starts with small steps. If you have seen yourself in one or more of these spending personalities, consider your first small step. Think of who can help you, including but not limited to Consumer Credit Counselors, Debtors Anonymous, a support group, a therapist or counselor, or a trusted friend or spouse. Make plans for each step you will take. Write down your three Top Spending Priorities and keep this with you at all times. Don’t shop when you are hungry, lonely, tired, angry or scared. These are all triggers for you to go “unconscious” and spend, spend, spend. You are not alone, you are not a bad person, you just need to learn some new spending habits.
Sharen Dowdall Cornils is an RN, holds a Master of Arts Degree in Psychology, is a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in Children’s behavior issues, and a Management Training Consultant specializing in Executive Coaching. She lives in Yuba City and contributes to articles for several publications. Photo by Moments to Remember Photography.
Eric Delman, D.O., P.C. General Surgeon Laser Vein Treatment
For Both Varicose & Spider Veins • Non-surgical • In-office procedure • Resume normal activities same day Did you know... Most insurances (including MediCal) cover Varicose Vein treatments?
Kevin Robert DeHoff
Northern California’s Premier Wedding & Event Florist
1500 North Beale Road Marysville, California
530
743-7387
Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. • Sat 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m.
mycountryflorist.com All Insurances Accepted Mention this ad and receive a free consultation 1168 Live Oak Blvd. • Yuba City • 751-7444
Voted