So back on May 1st I gave myself a challenge: No shopping, no unnecessary spending for 2 months. Originally it was just NO SHOPPING. This morphed into me making my own lattes at home everyday(which I oddly now prefer to Starbucks), doing my own manicures and pedicures rather than spending $40 every other week. Not using the tollway to avoid tolls, cooking more than eating out, not going to movies as often…when A can download them, spending time shopping my own closet instead of stores.
When I looked at my bank statement from April to May I noticed something crazy…I spent $2000 more in April than May. So far in June I’ve only spent money on bills and groceries and some gifts for my best friends birthday.
I’ve learned I am really good at painting my own nails, I have way too many clothes, making your own lattes saves gas, time and money and there are easier ways to get around Dallas than the tollway.
I have been able to put more money towards student loans and in savings.
Im sure most of you are surprised right? I mean Im a shopper. Thats me. But you know what this really hasn’t been as hard as I thought it would be.
My personal challenge has taught me so much and so many people ask “so July 1st are you gonna go crazy!?” While we are going on a trip on July 4th to Chicago and Im sure more money will be spent on dinners, brunches etc. I do not plan on going crazy.
I think and hope this challenge has changed me for the better and for the long term. Only time will tell.
I will do a full recap when its over!
But so far Im doing awesome!
Have you ever challenged yourself with something like this?
I would kill to be able to save that much in my budget. This month I’m not spending on any extras. Hoping this will save me 50-100, which isn’t shabby.
I would kill to have that much extra in my budget to save.. of course cost of living here is cheaper but still. Congratulations to you though for making the choice and sticking with it..
Wow that is impressive! I have been thinking about doing this for a while, maybe now I will….maybe
My Life with a Cherry on Top
I think this is awesome! Mike and I have cut down majorly in recent months, and what we’re able to put in savings is so ridiculous! Now, I absolutely love it!
I’ve learned I’m good at painting my owns nails.. the only things is, I can’t find a polish that stays on as long as the salon polish does. Hmph!
I am so proud of you for maintaining this strict “spending diet.” So many people would have given up but I am sure you have inspired others 🙂
im impressed that you spent $2000 more in one month!! you must be making bank!!
We basically sat down about a year ago and looked at our budget. We had about $40k in debt from cars and student loans. So, we cut out everything unnecessary (I think I’ve maybe spent $200 on clothes in the past year). We’re down to $15k from less than a year of our plan. And, honestly, rather than feeling deprived, I feel like when we buy things we will make better decisions. I’d rather have less stuff and have money to travel. It’s such a freeing feeling knowing you don’t need all that “stuff.”
I’m considering doing this!!
I did a no shopping cleanse in March/April. It was hard for me at first, but I got used to just saying no to things that I didn’t need. It’s definitely made a huge difference in my spending.
Good job! I like that you’re not just saving money, you’re also learning a lot about yourself and your spending habits (through saving). I’d love to hear your tips for at-home lattes, and I hope you have a blast in Chicago.
I seriously need to do this even if it’s only for 30 days. It’s just so hard. LOL
I did this 2 years ago, stopped buying clothing, shoes, jewelry etc. It really is empowering and puts so much more money in your pocket and bank account. Its challenging because of the pressure of social events and peer pressure where we always want something new but in the long run its so worth it! Congrats! Well done with the coffee. That is huge for you! Can you do a post on how you make your latte’s at home?
You are doing great!! I gave myself a spending moratorium (sp?) a few years ago when my credit card debt became unmanageable. By not spending, I managed to put that money towards my debt and pay it off. It really made me think about how and why I buy things. Now I am more mindful… and I’m still debt-free. Win-win!
Good for you!
It takes will power to say no to things you love or are so used to.
Glad you’re discovering that you are just as good at doing things as the others that you’ve paid to do them.
🙂
Seeing a higher amount of money in your account is always a happy thing!
Keep up the good work. With as good as you’re doing, you will be able to enjoy your trip.
There is something about being frugal and smart with your money in ever day life that sometimes makes trips more enjoyable.
You have a new knowledge of things you’re okay skipping out on, but you have that thought of, “well I can afford to splurge a little.”
Just watch out, it can knock you off the wagon sometimes. haha.
Balance is key!
I’m so proud of you! I’ve been thinking of doing this challenge myself. My spending is getting out of control!
Awesome job! I’ve never even TRIED to challenge myself like this, but after our vacation I really want to! I have already stopped doing my own nails and Starbux (except for special treats) since we cut back when I quit my job.