Today I’m starting a self-created challenge.
I will live on $40 for the entire month of August.
After recently looking through my bank statements online, I’ve come to realize the abuse my debit card receives. Since college I carry little to no cash and depend on using my debit card for nearly everything. Because of this convenience/laziness, my spending seems to be frivolous. With loans and a wedding in the future, I need to be more mindful and disciplined about my money. The coffees out, lunches and dinners with friends, movies with Troy, more clothing I DEFINITELY don’t need…it’s adding up and depleting what could be savings. I want to take a break from the worrying of money by simply…not spending any.
Details:
I have a total budget of $40 to spend on anything I would buy for myself this month.
Not Included:
- Living expenses – rent, bills, insurance, health, etc.
- Gas
- Tithes (and gifts, if I have to buy any)
- $20 to replenish fresh produce
Included (must be spent with $40):
- Eating out/Coffees to Go
- Clothing
- Household items
- Entertainment
What’s my starting point?
At the moment my car is completely fueled up and my refrigerator/pantry is stocked (which never happens!). A goal from this process is to not eat out as much when I (or we, if you include Troy-boy) could make food at home.
What’s the point?
What’s the point of depriving myself? Shouldn’t I be able to enjoy life and the money I earn? Yes, and that’s exactly why I do it. When I take a break from spending, I learn to appreciate what I have. The convenient restaurant dinners become a special treat and every time I go see a movie I’m thankful for the money to do so. I want to stop taking things for granted. (And obviously, it will be nice to save money from this process and hopefully grow into a more mindful spender.)
I know some may think, man, a lot of things are not included in her $40. It’s the little things that have been adding up for me, though – especially in the summer when I have more free time to hang out with friends and family.
Step 1: I plan on leaving my debit card at home when I go out.
Step 2: I’m going to spend the least amount in the beginning when I’m still very motivated. :)
I’ll update on the progress!
