Yes, I am a known Shopaholic.
I have actually had to be very strict with myself for about six or seven years now. I went from close to $20,000.00 in credit card debt to nothing in debt (except a car)
I prepare a budget for every paycheck so I know where everything is going, and I only go shopping for clothes when I'm POSITIVE I need it, and then I set a limit for spending. This is going to be hard for me after surgery.
The bottom line with any addiction is that you have to want to stop.
That's gonna be hard for any post-opper...You kinda have to buy clothes, and it's fun to try on everything, and see how much better clothes look on you!
This may be another one of those reasons the statistics for divorce are so high for Bypassers. Because the biggest thing that can cause problems in a marriage is money!!! If you can curb it now, do it!
I've had to learn to just say no to myself, and only bring my budgeted amount IN CASH to the store. Then if it's not in my budget, I just can't get it. It almost makes me cry sometimes. It's harsh, but it may work for you. Another possibility is to freeze your credit card in ice. It's there for an emergancy if you need it, but you can't use it for until it's thawed....
It seems goofy, but it's true!
Good luck Rain! Obviously, there's lots of us shopaholics out there!