June Update to Shopping Ban

So officially it’s been one month since I put the self imposed ban on myself around shopping for clothes and shoes. Although officially one month, it’s been more like six weeks since I last purchased any articles of clothing or shoes. So, how’s it going?

Well, I’m surprised to say…amazingly well. However, I’m not patting myself on the back yet because I’ve really been just incredibly busy and haven’t had the time to even miss it. I’ve had house guests and I’ve also been traveling, so it hasn’t really sunk in yet. I have also been actively avoiding any temptation. Normally on a Saturday morning, I would tune into QVC for AM Style…rarely would I miss a show and even more rare would I watch and NOT purchase something.

Additionally, I’ve been avoiding shopping altogether. Historically, if I was cutting back on one thing, I would indulge on something else…can’t buy clothes and shoes? Let’s go shopping for furniture or makeup! I haven’t been doing that either. No one is more surprised at this than I am.

So, have I learned anything yet? Well, I am still pulling things out of the closet with tags on, some that I honestly don’t remember buying! Because they’re still new and in the size I am currently wearing, I have not been able to purge anything yet from the closet. I’m not too upset about that because I know that point will be coming soon, as I will be moving to a new apartment in a couple of months and I will definitely be moving LESS clothes than I did when I moved into this place.

I am certainly getting more and more annoyed with myself as I try to get dressed in the morning. My closet (pictured here) is so jam packed that I can’t find anything in it. I have an obsession with black pants…I probably have about 20 pairs…and I can never find the ones I want when I want them. What used to feel good and make me proud (having all these clothes filling my closet) now just makes me upset and determined to change.

Current Closet Situation

Another thing that I have noticed is that I have been getting out more, meeting new people and socializing…I’ve been going to the beach and meditating. Although I’ve never been diagnosed medically (probably because I NEVER go to the doctor!) I believe I have, from time to time, suffered with depression…albeit mild. To make myself feel better, I think I shop – or overeat. I’m saying “I think” but of course I really know that is exactly what I do.

I think I am definitely making progress. I’m really looking forward to the things I will learn about myself in the coming year. I will update you again next month, when I hope there will be a marked change in the picture I share with you.

I would absolutely LOVE to know if anyone has undertaken something like this in their lives – and how you did? Did you conquer your bad habit…and how did it make you feel? Are you still struggling? Let’s share!

Until next time…

Go Happy Yourself!!