I am on day 8 of my $20.00 challenge. From this experience I am learning that spending money on unnecessary items is not needed. It is a habit. It is a frame of thought.
My last purchases for the week are: Sat 9/21/13 -Taco Bell. I spent $4.23 on food. Food that I did not need at 10:45 in the morning. I bought it just to buy it. No other reason. I wasn’t even hungry. After that guilty conscience all day, I decided to make a more concerted effort in my spending. No more “just because” spending.
On Tuesday 9/23/13 I was more wise with my money. I wanted to have breakfast at McDonalds’ and so did the kids. But we did not. No. I told the kids “no, we have breakfast food at home”. The only item I bought was a small coffee. The total amount on that was $1.09.
Total spent in 7 days is: $5.32. This brings the grand total left of my $20.00 to $10.64. I have 3 days left.
Can I make it? I believe so because it has changed my habit. That is where it starts with a small challenge to change a bad habit. Then to go along with the change of habit must be a change of the mind and heart.
If I continue to save my money in this area I will be able to reach more financial goals and help our family. I could take the extra money to: add to the grocery bill, or gas bill.
Onward in the challenge!
Good for you for taking this challenge. I know that it can be tough.
Michelle, I love your challenge. When living a frugal life, fun money is important! Here’s another option. Why not put it into a rainy day fund? That way, if you want to do something spontaneous with your family, you have an unexpected expense come up (last year for us it was kids’ birthday presents from a last minute invitation), or you just want to do something special for yourself (get your hair done) the money is there an you don’t have to find it in your budget.
Great post! I find myself spending money just to spend it if I keep cash without a plan too.
Way to go Michelle!I have been doing the same over here. It’s so easy to spend a little here and a little there.
It pains me to see how much I can waste at times on fast food, treats, and unneeded items. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the encouragement. I just think I should have something to show for it like a new hair do or something! Fast food should be a treat to me occasionally.