ad⋅dic⋅tion [uh-dik-shuhn] noun. the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma. Dictionary.com

Do you have an addition? Are you straddling that thin line between addiction and hobby? Can you tell if you’re flirting with a negative habit or if you have a full blown problem? Gizmodo recently posted the quiz, Are you Addicted to Technology?, to help readers figure out they type of relationship they have with tech. So, I took Gizmodo’s little test to see what my own addiction level was. It turns out that I’m somewhere between “Coffee Fiend” and “Chainsmoker” on any given day. Not bad, but I’ll have to recognize when I’m having a “chainsmoker” day and make some changes. I definitely don’t want to turn into a “Pothead.” …though I may have had a “pothead” day last week. *gulp*

Recognizing and acknowledging that you have a problem are very important to recovery. Even if you know that you need help, change doesn’t come easy, which is why I’m surprised and disturbed by the comments some people make about hoarders. Their reactions tend to be cruel and insensitive even though it’s apparent that the person in question is struggling with an issue they find extremely difficult to control. Case in point…

I don’t feel sorry for these people on Hoarders I would drive a bulldozer through their house and punch them in the face for being stupid. 2 weeks ago from web

Here’s another Twitter comment that lambasts anyone who needs the help of a professional organizer…

People who need professional organizers must have had terrible mothers. Do you also hire someone to tell you to floss and share your toys? 3:24 PM Jan 30th from web

Actually, we do hire people who tell us to floss. They’re called dentists. The folks who tell us to share our toys, they’re known as teachers. You know, I’m all for having an opinion (I have them all the time), but I also realize that my mum was right – if you can’t say something nice – or constructive – then you’re not sharing anything of value.

So, those of you out there who who find it very difficult to let go of a negative attitude and the thoughts/comments that accompany it, check out this article, 10 Productive Ways to Consistently Maintain a Positive Attitude. Consider it the first step to fixing your addiction. No worries, I won’t judge you.