Cutting out here and there is working out. And you ask,why shouldn't it? Even though it's obvious that becoming frugal will save you money. It's not that obvious until you actually see results. Except for my car insurance and cable bill, which get paid automatically at the end of the month, my bills are paid and I have money left over. There won't be any dipping into our savings account this pay period.
We really haven't been seriously budgeting until a few weeks ago, but I'm seeing a major difference already. Bringing lunch to work is making a huge impact on how much money we're saving. I'm still buying lunch once a week. Well, I had to do it today because I overslept and didn't have time to prepare lunch. I did, however, cut out my buying breakfast once a week. I would spend only $4.50, but that's still $18 a month that I don't need to spend.
Next month will be a bit tough because it is Will's first birthday. We're planning on a picnic, which I feel is the best option so far. I will be making most of the food. It will keep me busy, but it will also save me money.
One of my other concerns is that fall is fast approaching and I need to shop for new clothing. I have a dilemna (a good one). I've lost enough weight that only a pair of jeans and a pair of pants fit me properly and that's because I bought those last month. The rest of the clothes I own are big on me. So, I'll have to invest on some new outfits in the next couple of weeks.
Of course, I could use my credit card to buy myself a new wardrobe, but the point is not to bury myself in debt. Cash is my only option to use. I've mentioned this in the past, Dan and I are usually good with credit cards, but it's very tempting to use.
I hope that in the next couple of months, our budgeting will continue and we'll have more in our savings. A new job that pays more would be great at this moment. Will the hiring gods please hear me out?
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5 comments:
Good for you! I need to cut out my daily Starbucks run...it would save me 15 bucks a week. Which is 60 amonth...maybe I will try to stop today...I tell myself that everyday!
I need to work on a budgetfor us. Thanks for the inspiration!
Do you mind me asking how many sizes you have gone down in your clothing? If its only one size, I suggest you find a really good tailor and get your clothes altered. I have used this method several times in the past and found that it was a great way to save money. After altering my bottoms, meant I only had to spend money purchasing new tops.
Thought you might find this helpful.
Lindrea
Nyla, it's those little things that sneak up on you. You'll notice the difference.
Lindrea, I've gone down three sizes. You do have a great idea. I'll try that on my pants that are a size bigger. I can't believe I haven't thought of that. It's not like I've never gone to the tailor. Thank you very much!
Do you mind me asking how you were able to go down three sizes? My goal is to go down 1-2 sizes, and yet I find it to be the most difficult task ever. The hardest part for me is excercising, I despise the idea of going to the gym, however I recently joined the gym in my building. I'm hoping this will enable me to go to the gym frequently without the stress and worry of parking or any of the other things that normally deter me from the gym.
Do you have any tips you are willing to share?
Thanks,
Lindrea
Lindrea,
Honestly, what's help me shed the pounds has been breastfeeding. I haven't had the time (or energy) to exercise. A few years ago, I was very heavy. I did shed 50 pounds and I did it by portion control and exercise. Since I've been bringing lunch to work, I have started walking around during lunch. I wear a pedometer and try to reach 10,000 steps (not all at lunch), which is almost an equivalent to five miles.
Portion control is key, though. You don't realize how much you eat until you start cutting out calories. I eat small meals throughout the day and it works for me. And if I'm in the mood for chocolate (which is everyday), I have my piece.
Exercise is one of those things that takes a few weeks getting use to. After about a good month, you'll start feeling better and noticing that you want to workout. If you get past the grueling first few weeks, it gets easier.
I wish you the best of luck. I hope I was able to give you some insight. Keep me updated on your progress!
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