The idea of a Spending Fast came from Denise a good friend and workout buddy of mine. We are both dissatisfied with all of the excess in our lives. All of the mindless spending eg: trips to Starbucks, diet Cokes from Sonic, going out to eat, trips to the mall, the movies, and the list goes on and on.
I have really been thinking of ways to simplify my life, so Denise told me about the spending fast. Basically, for one month, we have decided not to spend money on anything that is not essential. Spencer and I sat down and made a list of things that we would not spend money on.
The List:
1. Starbucks (I can make coffee at home and I have a pretty pink thermos to transport it).
2. Barnes and Noble (we both have at least 3 books at home that we have not read yet).
3. Going out to eat (we both love to cook, but we also love to go out so this one has been the most difficult).
4. No theater (This one is for my husband. I love movies too but don't mind if I see them at home).
5. Stay away from the Mall!!! (This one is all me).
This has been a very liberating experience for us. We feel so in control! My husband and I have decided that this is going to be the year that we conserve. Not just money but other things as well (more about this on a future post). We are going to try the spending fast every other month this year. Wish us luck!
This is a great first step toward Simplifying my life.
Do you have any idea/things you do to simplify your life?
Please share!
I try to limit my errand running to one day during the week. Groceries, bank, dry cleaners, Walmart that sort of thing. It doesn't always work but I try. Thursday has been a good day for it but Tuesday also works. I do this for the kids sake. I have found more time simple being at home and less time in the car makes them happier and they play better together.
ReplyDeleteI'm also right there with you about Starbucks! I have done fantastic-it's sad when the girls at the window ask where I've been!
One more thing-BOOKS!! I also have books here at the house I haven't read. I hate to admit to WAY more than 3. This is the hardest for me but so far I've not purchased any. Gift cards from others don't count! Thank goodness!!
ReplyDeleteI have a gift card for B&N and Starbucks. My family knows me well!
ReplyDeleteI did use the Starbucks card yesterday when we got out of the house to go to the health food store. But I haven't used the B&N card yet!
Thru a link on a blog to a link on a blog, etc. - I saw something today that just might fit the "bill" - imaginary shopping sprees!
ReplyDeletehttp://kendraandseth.blogspot.com/
I'll have to tell Denise about it too!