DEAR ABBY: I'll get straight to the point. I lie too much. Sometimes I lie about little things, but other times I lie about big things.
Last week, I woke up and realized that my habit of lying was wrong, and one day I'll have to pay for it.
I've tried to stop, but over and over I catch myself doing it again. I want to talk to my mom about this, but when I get ready to ask her for help, I feel embarrassed and scared.
Abby, I desperately need your advice. -- NEEDS ADVICE IN VIRGINIA
DEAR NEEDS ADVICE: You're right -- someday you will have to pay for your lies if you continue.
When you find yourself lying, confess immediately that you stretched the truth or embroidered it -- then apologize. Most people will be forgiving when you immediately admit a wrong.
Not only will you feel better about yourself, you won't have to keep track of all the lies so you can cover for them.
Don't hesitate to ask your mother to assist you in breaking this habit. She loves you and wants the best for you, so go ahead and talk to her about it while you have the desire to quit.