It’s happened again…another new job. After spending 3 months driving back and forth to Milwaukee, I had reached a point that was mentally and physically exhausting. Instead of falling victim to that I started the job search yet once again.
I’ve never in my life had three jobs in 4 months, but when you realize something isn’t going to work for the long-haul, you re-evaluate and make the appropriate moves. I, however, was very lucky. A woman I knew through a professional organization had recommended me for a position with a local association and I got the job. It’s amazing what networking can do you for you both professionally and personally.
If you’ve ever followed my tweets, then you’ll know that I occasionally like to throw a quote out there about life, money, savings and now, self control.
I saw a quote by Yoda, of all people, “You must learn control.”
Self Control/Impulse Control/Self Regulation/Will Power is really the ability to control your behavior, emotions AND desires. The terms are used to refer to the many processes individuals use to manage drives and emotions. Now, if you’ve ever followed my blogs you’ll know that this is truly a struggle I encounter almost daily. Maybe everyone does on some level.
About two months ago I refinanced my house and it was by far one of the best things I’ve done, yet. It took some education to really understand what was going on with my situation of being “upside down” in my house, and how the refinance was definitely to my benefit. Not only did I have to look at how the economy was affecting me currently, but I really had to think about my long term goals.
One of those long term goals is wanting to sell my condo in a few years and move to something different. After going through the appraisal process and speaking with a realtor, I realized that realistically I was going to have to sit put for a few more years, thus moving forward with the refi was a good move.
Yes, Halloween is still weeks away, but I have two nephews and a niece that are very important to me and I’m seeing them in a week (they live in MN), so Aunt Amy must come prepared. The newest member, Isaac, is only two weeks old, but this is his first Halloween, so we need to celebrate.
With that said, I headed over to Target and got some amazing deals that I know the kids will love (ok, Isaac is a bit small, but it’s the thought that counts). To top it off, not one item I bought cost more than $1. Everything that was purchased was in the bargain aisle at the front of the Target store.
Well, it’s the half way point and Craig and I continue to meet quite a bit to go through where I’m at and assess my progress. I continue to persevere and stick to my budget and my goals. It doesn’t always prove to be easy, but that’s not what this is about.
My goals going into Project Money were to increase my savings and find a way to reduce debt – all of which I’ve been able to do in order to secure financial freedom. I’ve been able to increase my saving 100%, monthly, and I’ve been working hard at almost doubling my monthly debt payments. The struggle is difficult, but so worth it.
There are two little words, however huge in nature that hunted me down like prey and ate me alive recently. Guessed what it is yet? Hmmm…I think we’d all call it EMOTIONAL SPENDING! I’m certainly not a fool to it and is something I’m very aware of that has haunted me for many years of my life. I’m not sure I can even tell you when it started, but I know it started when I was younger.
What is bartering exactly? It’s the exchange of goods and services without money. During these tough economic times, we’re seeing more and more people turning to bartering to help make ends meet, which is something I’m doing more and more of.
According to an article, “In Economic Turndown, More Turn to Barter,” by Kelly B. Grant, written in SmartMoney.com, back in 2008, , “In July [2008], consumers listed nearly 142,000 ads on the barter section of Craigslist, a 96% increase from the year before, according to site statistics.” Research tells us that in the past people used bartering sites as a way to recycle their old things, but now it’s being done out of necessity.
Does anyone have a dog, cat, bird, goat, rat, horse, or any other fury (or hairless) friend? If yes, then you’re well aware of the costs (and, of course, absolute joy) that go along with having animals in your life. Between annual visits, shots, medicines, food, and toys, it can really start adding up.
Recently, my dog hurt her back end and struggled walking. Not only did I have to take her into the vet, but I realized that her annual visit was in a few months, so I decided to do it all at one time to save on office visits. By combining office visits and the fact that she had strained her leg one other time, the vet hesitated on x-rays, so that saved me roughly $80.
Three and a half months and my roommates move out. This is bittersweet for me. Having roommates has been nice, as I love having people to come home to, but it can also have its challenges, especially when you’re used to living alone.
Aside from having friends to come home to, I’ve been able to pay off a good chunk of my debt and all it took was giving someone a room to sleep in and a place to store their belongings. That is the easiest “part-time” job I can think of and by far the best way I’ve found to pay off debt quickly.
I have to admit - coupons are kind of fun. The actual process of seeking that next amazing deal has become a game I’ve enjoyed playing, and I never thought I would admit that. It’s not difficult and takes very little time. Being lazy is the only excuse I can offer you as to why I didn’t do it sooner. Yes, you may have to “adjust” what it is you want or a service you need done, but ultimately there is almost always a deal to be had. Flexibility is key and why pay more when there’s almost no reason to.
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