We all like to spoil ourselves now and again, and as we’re spending more time at home than ever before, the urge to splurge and spend has never been stronger. Of course, we all indulge in impulse buys now and again, even if we don’t get our money’s worth, however when the occasional impulse buys turns into a regular habit, it could be the start of a much bigger problem.
More of us than ever before are struggling with debt and failing to manage our money well, and if you’re someone who enjoys spending and shopping a little too much, then you could be damaging your finances and plunging yourself into debt. Perhaps you’re already aware of your precarious financial situation yet you’re still continuing to spend… if you need help with your debts or you want more information reach out to Creditfix for some impartial and confidential advice (especially if you’ve been issued a CCJ), click the link to find out more.
Read on to discover the top signs of a shopping addiction.
Unopened purchases and tags everywhere
Is your closet filled with clothes that still have the tags on and remain unworn? Do you have new purchases still encased in their original packaging, untouched? If you have an abundance of forgotten items like these then it’s a tell-tale sign that you may have a shopping addiction. When we buy things, we tend to do so with a purpose but if you’re purchasing things and then forgetting about them, it’s a sign you’re doing so for the thrill of it.
You buy things you don’t need!
Advertising campaigns are clever at making us think that we need certain products, even though we can get along just fine without them. It’s something we all fall victim to. However, if you’re buying things you don’t need, such as more kitchenware, additional phone cases, designer shoes, handbags etc, and have no intention of using them, then you could have a shopping addiction.
Emotive scenarios trigger the urge to shop
Whether you’re feeling elated, stressed, angry or you’ve had a bad day, if your immediate instinct is to reach for your credit card and shop, then warning bells should ring. Some people use shopping and spending to help them manage their emotions, which not only suggests financial issues but potential mood disorders and even unaddressed mental health issues.
You’re trying to hide your habits
Are you on edge every time you know there’s a delivery coming? Do you try to hide your recent purchases and try to think of ways to explain your sudden lack of money? Whether you’re hiding shopping bags or trying to catch the delivery person before they ring the doorbell, it’s a serious sign of a shopping addiction that shouldn’t be ignored.
You have credit card debt
Everyone has some kind of debt, whether it’s one or two credit card purchases, car finance, student loans etc, however, these debts are manageable and common. If you’re saddled with rising credit card debt, you’ve maxed out numerous cards and you have debt collectors demanding money, then the pressure of mounting debt can have a detrimental impact on your quality of life. Sadly, this kind of pressure often leads to more shopping.
Final thoughts
If you’re concerned about your shopping habits and your debt, reach out to Creditfix as soon as possible.
