shopping addiction, holiday shopping
The usual holiday shopping in preparation for the Christmas season can be especially difficult if you have a shopping addiction. What is a chore for many can quickly become a nightmare if you are in recovery for compulsive shopping, because your addiction can be triggered. Christmas is a time for giving gifts though, so shopping for gifts and essentials needed for the holidays must be done. There are some things that you can do so that your recovery continues and you do not find yourself in the same situation you were previously in due to excessive shopping. One way to deal with a shopping addiction and the need to do holiday shopping is to make a very specific list, and then stick to it once you reach the store. This can help you avoid compulsive purchases that you really do not need and may not be able to afford.
If you have a shopping addiction then set a budget for your holiday shopping, and get in touch with someone in your support network when you are feeling weak. This can help you avoid going overboard. If you think that the temptation may just be too much for you right now then another option is to hire a personal shopper if you can afford it. There are companies and professionals who charge very reasonable rates in order to shop for you, and if you have a serious shopping addiction this method may be less expensive than if you visit the stores yourself.
