10.18.2009

It's All About the Benjamins

I have a thing with money.
I like it.
The only thing I like more than money is having it.

Ever since I was little I was a saver.

Money earned babysitting... I saved it.
Birthday money from Grandma's & Grandpas... I saved it.
Pennies found on the ground... I saved it.
Money I stole borrowed from my brother... well, I spent that.

But you get the picture.

Now that I'm older nothing has changed.
I still like money,
I still save,
but I've stopped stealing borrowing money from my brother.

The problem I have is that I can't spend money.

It physically pains me every time I spend money.
(visualize me doubled over at the cashiers desk breathing heavily into a paper bag, hand clasped over my heart)
And buyers remorse? I get that.
Nothing feels better than standing at the customer service desk, returning my items, and having the clerk hand me back my money.

I have problems. I realize that.

Is there some sort of support group for this?

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

I so wish I could be this way actually.. especially now because I NEED to save money right now.

I don't think you need to see a support group. But nobody can live without spending money, there are necessities. You have a huge family, a home, cars, etc. Maybe you just have to really realize that, and I think you will be better when it comes to spending.

I need to be more like you, although I am getting better now, and not spending my money on so much .. little things.

amyorr said...

You have been like this for as long as I've known you. I wish I could be more like you (in so many ways)
I aggree, there are things you HAVE to spend money on. Wendys, your kids need clothes, and trips to Denver.

Emily said...

I'll join if you find one! I too have the same issue!

Unknown said...

since I love ya so much, I'll help you save your copay, it's called: chrometophobia :)

http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=12310

Laura W said...

I'm the same way! I still have my first bank book from age 5. Deposit 50 cents (roll of pennies)
Deposit $2 (roll of nickels) etc etc

I couldn't wait to deposit money!

Only thing is, I LOVE to shop! But I don't get physically ill until the total reaches over $35. Then I come home, divide the bag into two piles and return half the next day. It's a sickness. Buy, return, repeat. But it makes me happy....it's my drug of choice.

Anna K said...

I feel your spending pain. I too get physical symptoms when parting with my cash (nauseous +++) and I am the queen of returns, so much so that Wmart has me flagged in their computer.

I have found this tip slightly helpful. Calculate how long you would have to work in order to purchase the desired item. example: beautiful handknit 100% wool sweater, ON SALE. I would have to work for exactly 60 minutes to have enough money to buy this. Is it worth it? Only you can decide. I have talked myself out of many items this way. Just not worth my hard earned money.

Okay, I don't think I have helped in any way so if you find a support group, sign me up too.

PS. I did buy the sweater and I love it so much that there was no remorse.

Tiffany said...

Wow. We really do need to be friends, because it sounds like we could both benefit from each other's disordered thoughts! :)

How's my friendship application coming along, anyway?

kami @ nobiggie.net said...

You sound like my Dad. I really wish I was more like you. I go through phases.

Jenny said...

I think you need my help, nothing brings me more happiness than spending money on a nice vacation or a really fun date!! Its memories, your money is lonely it wants to get out and see its friends out in the world... spend Ginnie spend you will be happy,if only for a moment, but that moment is so good!!

Kristin said...

I can help you Ginnie. I will spend your money for you. Think how much joy it will bring you to see me, your bestest friend (see previous application), to spend your hard earned money. I don't necessarily like spending OPP (other peoples pennies) but if it helps bring joy and happiness to your life, well, then it's worth it.

Jessica said...

I have the opposite problem. Especially when it comes to buying my girls clothes. I think it is a sickness. Your "sickness" sounds better though. I think Kyle would appreciate that!