This guest blog post was provided by eBay Deals blog.

Hello, all! I am excited to announce that we have a guest blog post today courtesy of Kelsey Libert from eBay Deals Blog. If you recall, I recently entered their 2013 eBay Deals Frugal Blog Awards.  Kelsey is going to share a new online tool that is sure to make you think and therefore save money. Make sure to welcome her and thank her for this useful blog post by leaving her comments and sharing this post with others.

***

How Bad Habits are Costing Your Wallet and Your Health

By Kelsey Libert of eBay Deals Blog

Have you noticed how a bad habit can build on itself? Maybe you started smoking an occasional cigarette a few years ago and then yesterday you realized you’re a pack a day smoker. Maybe a single soda was enough to pick you up back in the day but now you’re downing Diet Coke like there’s no tomorrow – or at least, no tomorrow with Diet Coke in it.

Vices are vices because they are hard to control. If you’re seeing yourself at the beginning of a downward spiral, take the reins back and get your spending habits back in check.

Make a list of all the positives from quitting your vice and keep it near you always so you can refer back to it when you’re tempted. Figure out every use case for your habit- every situation where you rely on it to cheer you up- and find a better replacement habit. You can write these down too, but eventually you’ll know them by heart.

Smoking break? Get outside and take the same walk- but focus on the fresh air. Soda to keep you feeling sluggish? Pick another drink or treat to enjoy that won’t be so harsh on your dental health and wallet. You already know all these things, but the brain can be tricky and rationalize habits when it’s jonesing for a vice. Plan ahead for your rationalizations.

Lastly, figuring out the true cost of bad habits can be the jolt you need to change. Take the cost of your vices quiz by the eBay Deals team to find out what your vice is really costing you every year.

Write down the number on a sticky note and put it somewhere you’ll see it daily. Come up with a gift for yourself at the end of the year to match those saved dollars. It will be a fun reward, but the best part will be the positive changes you’re making for your health, your finances and your future.

***

What vices are sucking cash from your budget? How do you battle them? Please comment below and share your spending struggles and your tips to overcome them.