How can I stop spending before I'm broke?

Question

I have enough money to pay my bills- for now. I used to be a saver, and now I spend my money on a bunch of c**p I don't need, but would like to have. Just because I want it. If I keep this up, I will completely drain my bank account and be stuck with a bunch of bills. How can I stop spending? Has anyone else had this problem, and how did you fix it?

Answer 1

cut up your credit cards!!!

Answer 2

Get rid of your credit cards would be best.  Dave Ramsey on TV says that on average, people spend 12% more when they use credit cards compared to checks or cash.

I think that seems pretty true.

When I go to the mall or something, I have no problem spending with my credit card.  When paying with checks, I am a lot more careful.  If I have the cash in my pocket, I hate spending it.

So I recommend putting away the credit cards and using cash (not checks or check cards).  It is a lot harder to spend money when you have to watch yourself fork over cash to someone else.

Answer 3

Are you spending all your money using credit cards? Another thing you can do is put your credit cards in a glass of water and freeze them by putting them in the freezer. That way you if you think you really need to use them you can think about it while they are thawing out. (I am not trying to be funny I have done this myself and it helps)

Answer 4

Don't bring your credit cards with you every time you go out. Leave your purse home altogether if possible. Just keep your driver's licence on you in your pocket. If you have no money with you, you won't be able to impulse buy.

Set goals for yourself, and try setting  aside a small portion of each paycheck to reward yourself with something once a month.