Some much good advice from ppl_! it really helped me reading ppl's replies.
Here is some "theory" it might help understand why IT IS SO DIFFICULT to change habits. Coz if it wasn't difficult we WOULDN'T be in this forum
Firstly, our impulse control ability is the result of our environment plus our life experiences.
So what is easy for one person is a nightmare for another.
THEORY 1:
Studies show that the way to create lasting habits , i.e run marathons rather than sprints, is to start low and slowly increase the intensity.
Some ppl are obsessive and can keep going at full throttle from the start, but they are the 5% minority! (apparently)
Theory 2:
Our habits and our need to "reward" ourselves has little to do with the particular behaviour, e g. cutdown on carbs, shopping, alcohol, woteva.
Which is why rational, "common sense" thinking direct with for some of us.
You could say "thanks a bunch! what do i do with that?"
Well , only u can know (find out) .
A hint may be: if we feel deprived (on a deeper level), a void, a loss, sadness, etc or if we need to feel special or need a rush of excitement or distraction (by shopping?)
it s about satisfying the deeper need RATHER THAN focusing solely on stopping the behaviour. Coz the underlying need is never looked at.
Apologies for long reply, I hope it is of some use.