I started collecting soul stuff around 1964, only buying 45's initially as they were all I could afford. My 'collection' grew but I still only spent what I could afford (though many times I would go without other stuff). I soon built up a decent collection of UK stuff but when family commitment's kicked in, I had to sell some of my best UK 45's.
I 've bought (& sold some) down the years and now have a massive collection though most are cheaper valued 70's / 80's / 90's UK 45's / 12" / LPs (I like all types of black music).
My biggest failing is never getting around to cataloguing my collection. So I can never work out if I have sold a particular item or if I still have it. Because of this, when such an item crops up in good condition & at a good price, I have to buy it 'just in case'.
Coz of this I now have many (way too many) spare copies of things.
Mind you I'm not really an addict, I'm just a collector !!
Just because I have to own a particular 'LIKE' on UK demo 45, UK issue, French picture sleeve copy, a Bajan copy & more -- that surely doesn't make me an addict does it?