With the ever-growing popularity of gambling, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that come with it. This is particularly important for those of us in recovery.
I always manage to get addicted to my next “right now” thing. Such as meditation, Dragon Fruit Red Bull, Yoga, Hemisync MP3’s, shopping, etc. I am pretty sure it has to do with the pleasure centers in our brain. This is one of the many reasons I personally am progressing not perfecting. I choose not to beat myself up for the small stuff. Gambling isn’t small stuff because it’s effects could have a lasting effect of the financial future for you and your family. Prevention is my middle name.
Here are seven quick tips to help reduce the temptations of gambling and save money.
1. Recognize the Triggers That Lead to Gambling
Gambling can be an exciting way to spend your free time, but it can also be a dangerous and expensive habit. If you find yourself gambling more often than you’d like or spending more money than you can afford, it’s essential to recognize the triggers that lead to gambling. Some common triggers include:
• Boredom
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Alcohol
If you can identify your own triggers, you can be more aware of them and take steps to avoid them. For example, if you know that you gamble when you’re bored, try to find other activities to occupy your time.
2. Avoid High-Risk Situations
When it comes to gambling, it is important to avoid high-risk situations that can lead to temptation and monetary loss. By remaining aware of the risks, we can save money and stay safe. Many high-risk situations can lead to gambling, such as going to a casino, betting on sports, playing the lottery, or even just playing cards with friends. While these activities can be fun, they can also be very risky.
3. Set Limits on Time and Money
If you find that you are gambling more than you can afford or impacting your life negatively, then it is time to set some limits. Try to set aside a certain amount of money that you can afford to lose and stick to it. You should also limit the amount of time you spend gambling each day or week.
If you stick to these limits, you will be less likely to get into trouble with gambling. You will also find that you have more money to spend on other things, which can be a big help if you try to save up for something important.
4. Stick to a budget
Gambling can also be costly if you don’t stick to a budget. When gambling, it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid overspending and getting into debt. Before you start gambling, set a loss limit for yourself, and stop gambling for the day if you reach your limit. This way, you can gamble responsibly and avoid losing too much money.
5. Avoid using credit
Credit can be a useful tool when used responsibly but when it comes to gambling, using credit can be a dangerous temptation. It is all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of gambling and forget about the real
-world consequences of using credit.
6. Use a support System
Whether it’s a group of friends or family members, who can offer encouragement and accountability or a professional service that can provide guidance and help with financial planning, having a support system can make all the difference.
Before deciding to gamble, it is important to know the potential risks involved. If you know that you are more likely to gamble in certain situations, it is best to avoid them altogether.
7. Seek professional help
If you find that you are spending more time and money on gambling than you can afford, it may be time to seek professional help. A professional can help you understand your gambling habits and develop strategies to reduce gambling temptation. This can help you save money and avoid the potential financial and legal problems of gambling addiction.
Reducing the temptations of gambling
We know that gambling can be a very costly habit, both financially and emotionally. It is easier to resist gambling if there are fewer opportunities to gamble. Reducing the number of places where gambling is available can help save money and prevent emotional distress.
If you are struggling with gambling or know someone who is, please reach out to The National Counsil on Problem Gambling (NCPG.) They have a 24/7 holiness that can be reached at this number:
1-800-522-4700
You can check out their site here.
There is no need to suffer in silence any longer. Please like, follow, share, and comment below and tell me some of your non-drug addictions. Being a harm-reductionist you don’t have to be shy. Love and light, everyone! Namaste!
Post Off Quote
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” ―Theodore Roosevelt.
Post End Affirmation (they work)
All the strength I need is within me.
