There are certain situations when using a credit card is preferred over using a debit card for expenses. For instance, when renting a car use the credit card and avoid lowering your credit score. When buying online, the credit card offers more protection against ID theft, damaged goods, or unfilled orders. Low-cost meals are best… Continue reading Credit Card vs. Debit Card: When is it Best to Use Either One
Author: Carrie Rattle
Carrie Rattle is a Principal at BehavioralCents.com, a website for women focused on mind and money behaviors. She has worked in the financial services industry for 20+ years and hopes to inspire women to better prepare themselves for financial independence.
Shopping: Shop ‘till You Drop
Comedian Elayne Boosler said, “When women are depressed, they eat or go shopping. Men invade another country. It’s a whole different way of thinking.” It may be going to the mall with friends or participating in what some call “retail therapy,” but it adds up to the same thing. Shopping for a mood boost may… Continue reading Shopping: Shop ‘till You Drop
The Conversation You’re Not Having, but Should Probably Start
Alarming statistics include the fact that 50 percent of Americans have less than a month’s worth of savings for emergencies. One in four of us have no savings whatsoever. More than half of us have no budget. Credit card debt averages $15,000. That is the tip of the fiscal iceberg. While this debt looms, no… Continue reading The Conversation You’re Not Having, but Should Probably Start
Happily Welcomed Side Effects
Markus Almond of Brooklyn to Mars shares reflections on some big events in his life: finally paying off his credit cards, and getting rid of some possessions in preparation to moving into an apartment. He has learned a lot about becoming a minimalist, and has recently been inspired to “declutter, digitalize and simplify.” Almond’s reprioritization… Continue reading Happily Welcomed Side Effects
Hoarding and Addiction Help
People with a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) called hoarding are sometimes the subject of ridicule, loathing, and… reality TV shows. In this context, it is hard to see hoarding as a serious mental health issue necessitating particular treatment to address the OCD and the addictive aspects of this disorder. Signs of hoarding disorders include… Continue reading Hoarding and Addiction Help
Could You Be a Shopping Addict?
The change in seasons means a change in fashion, as we start putting on layers for warmth and style. All this can be fun for many, but for some of us the ringing cash registers can be ringing in disaster. If you think that you or someone you know has a shopping addiction, here are… Continue reading Could You Be a Shopping Addict?
How to Budget: Avoiding Retail Therapy
In these times of economic downturn, it is crucial that people take control of their finances. In every adversity are the seeds of equal or greater benefit, and that includes the current economic climate. Let the uncertain times be a motivator for you to think seriously about taking control of your spending and your life.… Continue reading How to Budget: Avoiding Retail Therapy
New TV Show Profiles Compulsive Shoppers
A Las Vegas heiress spends $30,000 a month buying dresses and shoes. A California woman spends $300 a week at a dollar store and has to borrow from friends as she goes into debt. These women and others are featured on Oxygen’s new show called “My Shopping Addiction.” The show also features experts to help… Continue reading New TV Show Profiles Compulsive Shoppers
Thriving During Buy Nothing New Month
October is Buy Nothing New Month (BNNM). Who knew? It was started three years ago inMelbourne,Australia. The organizers of BNNM ask consumers to think about the origin of the things we buy. When you see an incredibly cheap tee-shirt, ask yourself what the real cost might be in terms of human suffering or environmental destruction.… Continue reading Thriving During Buy Nothing New Month
Why Should I Get Help for Shopping Addiction?
A shopping addiction can lead to financial ruin, legal problems, and destroyed relationships. Shopping addiction can also lead to substance addictions in an attempt to dull the pain and shame. These are all excellent reasons to get help. Addictions have a similar root, as brain chemical releases cause a sense of euphoria that is “chased”… Continue reading Why Should I Get Help for Shopping Addiction?