I'll be the first to admit I might have a slight shopping problem. I'll also be the first to ridicule myself for falling into a cliche and incorrect stereotype often attached to women. However, sometimes I can't help but feel a need (and I know I don't need it) to buy the latest summer outfit or a new pair of shoes. Basically, after hitting rock bottom (sort of) I have realized that there are some things I need to take into consideration before spending my money on frivolous items. So before the siren call of a sale at Forever 21 calls your name for the hundredth time, take my advice because, trust me, I know how you feel.

1. Prioritize your spending.

I realize this is easier said than done, but luckily bills can speak louder than my need to buy other items. With owning a car, and paying for various other expenses including college, I have finally been able to see that there are certain expenses that come first. Like buying gas (kind of important for keeping a job), or paying for your college so that you aren't in debt for eternity. Think of the big picture before you buy and you might think twice before spending.

2. Make a list of what is needed versus what is wanted.

This may not be clear cut at first, but for an avid list maker like myself, seeing what is needed next to what I want laid out on paper with perhaps even the prices of each listed offers a very sobering visualization. When something is written clear cut on paper it is easier to see the physicality of necessity versus want.

3. Allow yourself a little room to buy what you want.

Dying for a new pair of shoes, or that new hand bag? As long as you follow steps one and two, you can still make the purchase within reason. Cutting yourself off completely can be hard, especially when the summer season offers a lot of back to school sales and new trends. It is okay to allow yourself a gift once in awhile as long as "once in awhile" isn't every week or every whim.

4. Leave your credit cards at home if you know temptation will get the best of you.

Luckily I have not gotten a credit card yet, or else I fear I could have been in debt. The ease of a card sliding through makes it seem like the spending isn't real, but IT IS! Don't forget that or avoid it completely by not taking them with you while going on a shopping trip.

5. Set a goal while shopping for what you need, and stick to it.

Don't let sales or any other discounted items get the best of you. Follow this mantra "Get what you came for and get out."

6. Follow the three day rule.

If you still feel you need to have it after three days, it may be worth it. During this time consider whether you need it or not (follow steps one and two). When first shopping there is a rush of adrenaline and impulse, but after three days it wears away making your decisions more reasonable.

7. Save where you can.

If you can choose to pack your lunch instead of going out to eat on a lunch break everyday, do it. By simply buying groceries instead of fast food or restaurant meals you can save hundreds of dollars a month (which can be saved or used elsewhere).

8. Save your change, or find an odd job to give you spending money.

By saving up change or getting a small secondary job, you can have money to spare. I've been taught to always save your change for a rainy day and sure enough over the years I've collected hundreds of dollars of it. Some toss it aside but money is still money regardless of the amount.

9. Prepare for setbacks.

If you are anything like me, I've had a few spending set backs making me cringe every time I used or wore the item that I didn't really need to buy. By saving money as described above, you can get through these setbacks and come out even or even better with savings.

10. Consider your future.

My biggest realization was this: I will have numerous expenses as I continue to grow up and begin my adult life. Be proactive now so that you will not worry later. Your future self will thank you.

With these tips in mind, to all my fellow spenders: Good luck!