Transfer addiction ?

Ok, so I have a question. I know that since I am a recovering food addict, that I have a addictive personality. Over my adult years, I have enjoyed shopping in addition to eating. So if I was feeling down and I had ate myself to an over-stuffed feeling and I was still feeling down I would then go shopping. Not that I spend very much but you know buy an outfit or two or whatever caught my eye. This week I noticed that I had worn the soles of my shoes down and I had not bought new shoes in over 1 year. So I order some, ok I ordered  5 pairs.  Then I realized that I was still wearing my 22/24 pants and they were falling off so I go to LB plus store and I buy 2 complete outfits. Now, of course I dont have the money to spend like that but I had coupons and it was a good deal because they were all on sale. So I then Slap myself in the face and say "Get control of yourself" No more spending. I really needed the things, so now I have clothes to wear to work.

Now to my question, shopping could very easily become a transfer addicition for me. However, if I was going to have an addiction I would rather be addicted to exercise. I am not too sure that I can make myself become this way but I would enjoy it and it would be beneficial to my health within reason. So do you think that I could just exercise when I want to shop and it would curb that feeling?  I really don't want an addiction but of all of them I would prefer exercise.

Have I said lately that I am glad I no longer smoke (non-smoker for 2yrs 2months ) now. Ok, thanks for your time I just have to get this stuff off my chest.

Good insight Susan.  A little overboard on the shoes?  Maybe?  Possible to send back extras for improvement of the finances?  I hear of places that others buy second hand and very good work clothes, not sure which store, others will have answers. 

More importantly. Can you decide which addiction to have?  Not sure, but trying to exercise first instead of purchasing may help to form exercising into a habit.  The endorphins released by exercising my give you as good or even better feeling of satisfaction.  Congrats on becoming a non smoker.  One addiction down the tubes.  Horrayyyyy.

Having been a psych nurse for many years, I am worrying about the same thing,  I have even bought some size 12 shorts, I guess I was dreaming or maybe one day I will fit into them.  It takes  approx 90 repetitions to make a habit, so just keep working out and as your brain continues to create the feel good endorphins, you will become addicted to them more so than the exercise.  So just keep it up and it will happen given time

Hi Teresa, Great, another nurse in the group.  There are several of us in this group.  I work night shift in an OB/Peds unit.

Susan,
This thought has worried me too. I am a compulsive eater who sometimes eats to the point of wanting to throw up, even eating food that I don't particularly care for. This is not freguent behavior, mostly I love food and use it to deal with stress, boredom, anxiety, etc. I do great thru the day and then come home tired and stressed and hungry and want to eat everything in the house! I know that I have to change my behavior and have had some success in the past with low carb killing my sugar cravings. But what habit might I replace eating with? I don't drink, quit smoking 23 years ago when pregnant with my son, but I love to shop. I have found myself in the past doing just what you described and then kicking myself because I can't afford it. Like you, I'd love to replace food with exercising. Let's make a pact that that's what we'll set out to do and see how it goes! If I start being a shopaholic, I'll report to ya'll for a kick in the pants.: )

You gals are on the right track here! You MUST discipline yourself when fighting the urge to eat, shop, drink, or whatever else may be an addiction or could become one for you. AND by replacing that behavior with a very smart and healthy one like exercise, you are doing your body and wallet a HUGE favor indeed! The endorphine info above.. very true also. I know when I keep active and walking etc.. I feel much better than when I let myself slack off... Yes, even support group leaders struggle at times..lol.
You may also choose to also try delving into a good book, a crafting project, or another enjoyable activity as well if other "cravings or addictioive thoughts" begin to surface. There are many wls patients that with time and discipline they truly begin to love the exercise that they once dreaded and despised.  VERY GOOD plan of action. Now.. if you nee help following through, feel free to come here and post for support, encouragement, or a gentle kick in the pants! lol.

 As far as the shopping goes, definitely check into some resale shops in your area.  I found one that's part of the "Once Upon A Child" chain called "Clothes Mentor".  They carry everything from juniors to plus to maternity, and they seem to be pretty particular about what they accept.  I got a pair of LB jeans there for $16, and they still had tags on them.  I plan to shop there as I go through the sizes.  

If you decide to indulge in the occasional bout of retail therapy, a good second-hand store can fulfill the urge to splurge without being too awful damaging on the pocketbook. 

As far as creating an exercise "addiction", I am hoping to create the same thing.  Keep us posted on your progress in this!