Debt Fighting Strategies

The first thing you can do to combat the spending urge is to recognize the things that will trigger you to go out and spend money. For example, if I get depressed, one of my first impulses will always be to go out and buy myself something to cheer me up. After you write down as many triggers as you can think of, your next step is to figure out alternate solutions to fighting the spend money fix.

Buying an" I deserve a reward "treat for yourself

Accomplished a goal? Had a good day at work? Finished a crossword puzzle? It's so easy to come up with a reason why you deserve a reward.

Does that sound like you? It definitely sounds like me! If you are like me, then this is what can help: find free "treats" to reward yourself with. Here are some possibilities:

Bubble baths

Give yourself a facial and manicure

Gardening

Make yourself a treat, like a hut fudge sundae

Enjoy a glass of wine with a friend and gloat about your accomplishment

Sleep in late

Have breakfast in bed

Buying an "I am depressed, This Will Cheer Me Up" treat

Yes, I do that as well. If this is a trigger for you, then you need to try and figure out what is making you depressed to begin with. This works with being angry or upset as well. Whatever situation has created those feelings, you need to deal with it. Easier to go shopping, I know. But if you want to be a happier person and not be in debt, you need to face the situation head on. Take some time by yourself and try and uncover what is making you feel depressed. Talk to a good friend, or even a neutral person, dealing and coming up with solutions will ultimately be far more rewarding than a new sweater ever will.

Shopping (even window shopping) leads to Eating Out

Could this scenario be your favorite weekend activity? You need some new hobbies. Try joining a book club. Or how about a cooking club? Find some other hobby that won't have you eating out frequently. Check out the Internet for groups and clubs you can join and are free.

Impulse Buying

Avoiding the last minute impulse purchase is much easier to say than do. We've all been there. Whether it be standing in line at the grocery store and throwing in that magazine you were perusing, or be it that cute pair of jeans that were on sale so you just couldn't resist. Impulse buying is tough to avoid, and retailers know it.

Plan ahead. Set a budget for things you really need, not want. Try to avoid newspaper ads that lure you in. Ask yourself if you really NEED that purse, or do you WANT it? Remind yourself of the 20 or so purses cluttering up your closet shelves at home.

Fighting the urge to spend money is tough. Somewhat like an addiction where you take one day at a time. But as you increase your savings and decrease your debt, you will feel empowered and motivated to keep combating the enemy called "debt".