As mentioned on The Everygirl, I moved to Chicago with a savings account. I've had to rely on it a few times–when things have been slow and when big things have come up. Things have been crazy and I haven't had the time to take on as many graphic design projects, so I've made less than I am used to making, and I spent a little more of my savings than I would have liked. Ok–a lot more. I still have money put away but need to build it back up.
Here's what I'm doing wrong:
Here's what I'm doing wrong:
Uber is so convenient, but those cab rides add up.
I love spending time with friends, but those weekly brunches and dinners add up, too.
And then there's everything else. Bills, CrossFit, clothes, health insurance ($$$) etc.
I won't even go into the horrible things I've done at Lululemon the past few months. Oy.
I've done too much shopping at Whole Foods.
And then there's everything else. Bills, CrossFit, clothes, health insurance ($$$) etc.
I won't even go into the horrible things I've done at Lululemon the past few months. Oy.
I've done too much shopping at Whole Foods.
And this is what I'm going to do about it.
I was supposed to go to brunch Saturday and Sunday a few weeks ago which would have been at least $15-20 each day, so I made coffee plans instead. Spending one weekend night at home. Between cabbing to/from a restaurant or bar, ordering drinks and food, I figure I'm saving at least $50 per week. Savings of at least $25/week or $100/month. And I just need to not ever cab to CrossFit, because that's at least $12-13 each way. It adds up! I received a Nespresso for Christmas and make my iced Americanos at home. I also usually do my nails myself. I've gotten a lot better. And since I work from home, I always, always make my own lunches.
No shopping! I don't need any more winter clothes and spring/summer are just around the corner. I'll get to pull out all of my dresses again and will gain at least 20 new outfits. When it comes to health, this isn't something I am willing to change. I do buy my meat at Whole Foods, but have started buying everything else at Trader Joes. Buying healthy food is expensive. Period.
I feel like I've learned a lot from The Everygirl's contributing financial editor, Brittney Castro. She's been writing for us since the beginning, and I feel so fortunate to have her on our team. One of my favorites–our how to budget handbook. Good stuff, ladies.
I'm doing my best to really think about each purchase. Do I want or need this? Is there a less expensive version? $15 here or $20 there never feels like much, but it all adds up. And before you know it, you've spent $500.
No shopping! I don't need any more winter clothes and spring/summer are just around the corner. I'll get to pull out all of my dresses again and will gain at least 20 new outfits. When it comes to health, this isn't something I am willing to change. I do buy my meat at Whole Foods, but have started buying everything else at Trader Joes. Buying healthy food is expensive. Period.
I feel like I've learned a lot from The Everygirl's contributing financial editor, Brittney Castro. She's been writing for us since the beginning, and I feel so fortunate to have her on our team. One of my favorites–our how to budget handbook. Good stuff, ladies.
I'm doing my best to really think about each purchase. Do I want or need this? Is there a less expensive version? $15 here or $20 there never feels like much, but it all adds up. And before you know it, you've spent $500.
So tell me–what do you give up when it's time to cut back?
Little me with great aunt rose. 