My Spending Problem - Then and Now
My spending was completely out of control. I overdrew checking accounts by hundreds, drained savings accounts. Had cars bought and repossessed. Lost a great house. Maxed out every credit card I ever had. I have no idea what I even spent the money on. Never really had anything to show for what I spent it on. Still don't.
My Spending Control Strategy
Learning that bipolar caused the spending sprees was a huge help. I use a calendar to know when every bill is due and pay those before anything else. Have paid off all checking accounts. I have no credit cards at all. I have a very close friend and a family member who both help keep track of my checking account to make sure I'm keeping good track of the balance. Never buy anything spur of the moment. Always wait 48 hours before buying and talk with at least one person about it first. Always figure in how long it is till payday and what I will need until then. Most of all, if I mess up I remember I'm not perfect and it's going to take time and to just start over and keep going.
Advice
- I don't know about telling others how they should do things, but in my case, having close friends and family who don't judge me helps more than anything in the world.
- I'm not perfect. I've gotten so much better and I don't spend like I used to at all. Sometimes I'll do little things I probably shouldn't but it's not devastating. It usually makes me run short until I get paid but the only one it affects is me. I do without things then until I get paid.
- Trying to do it alone NEVER works, I do know that. No one bails me out and makes excuses for me anymore. They support me and tell me not to let it get me down.
Special notes - internet shopping
I never internet shop EVER
Special notes - dealing with creditors
Pay what you can no matter how little it is.
Special notes - credit cards
I have none.
Final thoughts
Do the best you can. Don't be to hard on yourself. It's a learning process. Get close friends or family to help. Make sure they aren't judgmental because you will make mistakes. You need someone who will listen help but not judge. Remember it's an illness and you will never be perfect.
