Breaking the credit card habit is very difficult. You can do it, however, with a healthy dose of dedication and perseverance.

Instructions on breaking the credit card habit

STEP 1: Discard credit card offers received in the mail. Shred or tear up the offers – to keep them from being used fraudulently by anyone else – and throw them out.

STEP 2: Discern between luxury and necessity, then cut back on credit card use for luxuries.

STEP 3: Commit to paying bills in full each month or to not using credit cards at all.

STEP 4: Throw out one credit card a month until you’re down to a couple of manageable ones.

STEP 5: Use cash instead of plastic.

Tips for managing your money

• If you stop using a credit card, it won’t be canceled unless you call the company and request cancellation.

• Debtors Anonymous has local chapters all over the country for addicted overspenders.

• Get a prepaid debit or prepaid credit card to help limit your spending, and build your credit.

• Keep credit cards somewhere other than in your wallet.

• Resist the temptation to pay off one credit card with another.

• Avoid withdrawing cash using your credit card. The transaction fees are high, and interest begins accruing immediately.

• Avoid using the checks that are issued by credit card companies. These checks are treated just like cash withdrawals, meaning there are transaction fees and high interest rates.