I know we are a few days into our challenge, but let’s support each other for the rest of this month to buy nothing. Today, I invite you to join me on my no-shopping month. No more browsing your favorite stores “just to look.” No longer skimming online retailers “just to see what they have.” No more careering from Target’s grocery section to the home goods section “in case there are good deals.” The point is to recondition yourself from seeing shopping as an innocuous hobby, and instead focus on how much you do have and appreciate that it’s more than enough. Which, if you’re reading this on a smartphone or laptop, then you already have a lot.Ī personal shopping ban requires not just curbing the buying, but putting a stop to the shopping. You put little energy in being grateful and full with what you do have. You become focused on what you do not have. You are focused on things, when deep down you know it’s people and experiences that bring you joy and love. If you always wish you had more or other things–a new wardrobe, a different/better/bigger house, a nicer car, better furniture-your thoughts and energy are engaged in a poverty mentality. If you’re not happy with your money situation, you’re likely out of alignment with your values. Our culture is hyper-focused on shopping for, consuming, and owning stuff. Here is a page from my book, 30-Day Kickass Single Mom Money Makeover: Day 6: Buy Nothing Month Get actions steps on budgeting in this post: How to set up a budget you will stick toĪnd find free printable budget worksheets here. You Need a Budget, or YNAB, is our recommended tool to help you collect all your accounts and debt in one spreadsheet, set goals and tackel them, easily. Ideally, you’ll be able to set aside some money in your budget for savings right away - even if it’s a small amount. Include all your fixed bills like rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and insurance, and create spending caps for categories where you have some wiggle room. Once you track your spending from the last few months, create a budget that sets limits for your spending for the upcoming month. In that sense, a budget helps you be proactive about your finances versus just letting the chips fall where they may. A budget is nothing more than a “spending plan” you can use to dictate where your money goes each month. However, creating a budget is important no matter how much you earn. Create a monthly budgetĪre you thinking: Budget my money? What money!? When you’re barely getting by, the thought of creating a budget might seem ridiculous. ![]() ![]() Here are steps you can take today that could make a huge difference in your bottom line: 1. The former is less expensive, more adventure, more memories and life lessons. I prefer three weeks in Vietnam with my kids over three days at Disney. Focus on quality over quantity - this is true for products you buy, as well as life experiences.When it comes to the best money-saving tips for single parents, my advice is simple:
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