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Is Retail Therapy Really What You Need?

You know what feels good? Going out and getting yourself something nice after a rough day. Especially when retailers keep sending coupon after coupon stating how much we can save!  However, it is a bummer when you have already exhausted your budget on retail therapy when your friends are out enjoying. Or even worse, maybe you come up short on the credit card bill and you built up too much debt. Now you are in a fix!

If you're not careful, retail therapy can lead to debt!

If you’re not careful, retail therapy can lead to debt!

The Truth About Retail Therapy

Retail therapy is not a healthy solution to life’s problems. Sure, the instant gratification can feel good, but if you’re in the midst of debt recovery, then it will only make your situation worse. If you use a credit card, you could rack up even more credit card debt and wind up paying more interest. It’s a vicious cycle, and you need to find a different kind of release for your stress.

Making Alternative Choices to Retail Therapy

The next time you have a rough day and feel the need for retail therapy, think again about the future and which is really more rewarding. Do you want that new toy enough to take away from your rent or phone bill? Do you want it enough to pay interest on it for months? Focus on the positive aspects of NOT BUYING THINGS. Instead, work on making debt management progress for your financial stability’s sake.

Choose a place you can go to replace your usual retail splurges. Get some frozen yogurt or maybe a coffee somewhere. The library allows you to spend zero dollars, but you still get to walk away with something. A small treat doesn’t cost much but still offers some instant gratification.

Financial freedom takes dedication and perseverance. Remember your financial goals and the ways to avoid retail therapy.

If you are drowning in debt and looking for help, schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.

ABOUT AUTHOR / Dilini

Dilini is a Marketing Communications & Programs Associate at ACCC. To anyone, managing finances can be a real challenge! Any tips and tricks to help get through this are great! Dilini will share her experiences, tips, and tricks along the way through the Talking Cents blog. Stay tuned!

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