Shopping Addictions Are Keeping Some Atlanta Consumers in Debt
Forget the old question, "What came first, the chicken or the egg?" The new riddle is, "What came first, the spending or the debt?"
Millions of Americans currently spend more than they earn, say Atlanta bankruptcy attorneys. Sometimes it's because they have too much debt. But other times, they have too much debt because of their spending. In order to free up your finances once and for all, it's important to identify whether your shortfall is caused by circumstances beyond your control - or a spending addiction.
If your paycheck just isn't cutting it, maybe it's time you asked yourself a few questions.
Do you often make purchases compulsively - and then end up not even using what you buy? Do you ever find yourself sneaking around to keep friends and family from finding out what - or how much - you've purchased? Do you go gaga over sales not because of the savings, but because you're addicted to the feeling of finding a good deal? Does your mood affect your shopping behavior - for instance, do you try to recover from a bad day by blowing big bucks at the mall?
If any of the above hit home, it's possible that you could be addicted to spending. Fortunately it's never too late to recover. In many cases, all it takes to modify your behavior is simple awareness.
When you find yourself splurging, try to identify what's driving your compulsion. Are you trying to feel better after a stressful day at work? Think about how much better you'll feel in the long run if you don't add further stress from debt - and instead, take a bubble bath, read a book or zone out in front of the TV. Feel like you need to take advantage of the latest sale? Ask yourself how likely you are to use the discounted item in the future - you might end up deciding it's better to save your money for something you really need, not something you want in a random moment.
Often times, taking the time to think each purchase through is enough to curb overspending - and take the weight of debt off your shoulders. But if your prior shopping adventures have left you with more debt than you can manage alone, don't hesitate to get help.
When you sign up for a free personal debt analysis, a DebtStoppers bankruptcy attorney in Atlanta will review your finances and determine whether a bankruptcy plan can lower or eliminate your debt, freeing up more of your paycheck. More money each month means less stress over debt - and in turn, less desire to drown your sorrows at the shopping mall.