Confessions of a shopaholic

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The last two months have been tough on Robert and me. I haven't had the opportunity to work as many hours, and while we have made ends meet, our budget has been tighter than usual. I haven't been in the greatest of spirits because of it and I tried to find ways to make things look brighter. Unfortunately, I found solace in the bottom of a shopping bag, which made me realize something bad about myself - I'm a shopaholic.

I use shopping as my coping mechanism and that's the worst method when you're on a budget. It's not like I'm worthy of a spot on "Hoarders" or anything. I don't go overboard, but I'm always buying things here and there. I justify my spending by saying "eh, it's just a few dollars." Yet those little purchases add up fast, and before you know it, a few dollars is forty bucks.

I know it won't be easy to cut back on my spending, so I'm getting organized and setting goals for myself. I've composed a spreadsheet to monitor our expenses and I want to learn to bargain shop. I've tried to clip coupons and look for deals before, but I've never stuck with it. If you have any tips for a newly-formed bargain hunter, feel free to share! I need some good advice.

I also want to get myself involved in Yoga and start running on a regular basis. If I can have that time to clear my mind, I think I’ll be better for it. Not only will I be healthier, I’ll lower my stress levels and stop spending as much.

I'm looking forward to being healthier, less stressed, and seeing how much I can save. I hope budgeting will make me more creative with my home decorating as well. Instead of buying everything, I'm going to make my home accents, which I'm really excited about. I know that just means I’ll be spending even more hours on Pinterest.

When it comes down to it, we all need little comforts when times are tough. I'm moving away from reckless spending, but there are so many other ways to unwind when your stress levels are high. In fact, I spent my entire Saturday in pjs watching my favourite movies. It was completely relaxing and the best part was it cost me nothing!

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