Liz, I think we must be wired the same way. I know for me the sales and dollar area at Target used to be my weakness. I’m doing better though, but I still make unnecessary purchases.

I do control my environment pretty well. I don’t watch ads, canceled ALL my catalogs, and those email reminders about sales. We also don’t keep junk in the house MOST of the time since I have zero self-control when it comes to sweets.

K.S., I agree! I’ve already made big wins, it’s the little things that eat up our discretionary money. I used to do the same thing re: gifts for the kids, but I’ve since realized they rarely play with anything! I’m thinking this year for birthdays we’ll do a fun family trip, and Christmas will be all about books, art supplies, and “consumables”.

Thanks for all your support!

I also suffer from pre-holiday gift buying. If I’m at the store and there is a toy on sale, I buy it with the thought, “Oh my son would love that for Xmas or birthday.” The problem with this nasty habit is that I put it in my closet, to hide it from my son, and then forget I bought it. Last Xmas, I had 13 presents for my son.

Yes, these purchases were small and made at different times throughout the year; however, if I had purchased them all at once, I can tell you that I would have greatly reduced my spending.

For me, the little, not the big purchases add up!

I spend WAY too much money on “stuff” and just like food, I think it’s important to control your environment. It’s another good reason to cancel those cataloges you enjoy browsing through, or make a shopping list even when you’re going to the mall.

Just yesterday I almost bought webkinz clothes. Why? Because while we were at Cracker Barrel for dinner, I saw a bin of them that was 40% off. It was all I could do to restrain myself and walk away. Will DD care that I didn’t buy them? NO! Then why was it such a struggle for me to resist? I wish I knew.

Then again, I also wish I knew why cookies in the pantry will always call my name when I’m in there trying to get something healthy to eat. I suppose these are just life’s great mysteries!

I think your notion of being honest, sharing your true struggles with your readers, and asking for advice are far more fruitful avenues.

We all struggle, that is one of the beauties of running a PF blog… it helps keep you accountable.

Maybe you could pair up with another PF blogger who is having similar temptations and form an accountability team. Or you could do it with someone local who shares your vision but equally struggles.