Stress often leads to poor money decisions that can create even more stressful situations than we had before. Using retail therapy to soothe our bad day or bad luck can instigate a downward spending spiral, but The Wall Street Journal has some pointers for keeping us above water when the itch to spend can't be scratched.

  • Ask yourself why you have the urge to spend money and focus on solving those problems first.
  • Avoid the rationalization that overspending for work attire is necessary. Digging yourself in to debt will create bigger problems later, so figure out what you can realistically afford and go shopping for the best deal.
  • Plan for your bigger purchases by saving a certain amount each week until you have enough.
  • Scale down pick-me-ups by going for smaller, more inexpensive purchases or skip the shopping and grab coffee with friends.
  • Keep track of your day-to-day finances to establish a sense of control, and planning for purchases will become a more natural habit.

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