Don't think that compulsive shopping is something to be laughed off. It's not. A steady flow of credit card bills can put you in serious debt more quickly than you can imagine. If you're not a compulsive shopper but still feel that you should pull the reins in, try these tips.
Don't ever shop without a list - and stick to it.
Avoid sales; the temptation to overbuy is too great.
Keep a small notebook where you list everything you buy, even the morning paper. You'll find it harder to spend if you know you must write each purchase down.
If you find yourself buying things you neither need nor can afford, talk to your bank manager or a financial adviser from the Citizens' Advice Bureau about getting a realistic budget.
